Open tunings are a fantastic way to explore new sounds, unlock creative possibilities, and bring fresh life to your acoustic guitar playing.
Whether you’re a beginner curious about alternate tunings or an experienced player looking to experiment, understanding how to tune your acoustic guitar for open tunings can elevate your playing.
In this guide, I’ll explain what open tunings are, why they’re used, and provide step-by-step instructions for some of the most popular open tunings.
What Are Open Tunings?
In standard tuning (EADGBE), your acoustic guitar strings are tuned to individual notes that don’t form a chord. In open tuning, the strings are tuned to create a specific chord when played without fretting.
This allows for easy strumming of chords, slide guitar techniques, and rich, resonant sounds.
Why Use Open Tunings?
- Simplifies chord shapes.
- Enhances creativity and improvisation.
- Ideal for fingerpicking, slide guitar, and specific genres like folk, blues, and rock.
Tools You’ll Need for Open Tunings
- Guitar Tuner: A clip-on, pedal, or app-based tuner works perfectly for accuracy.
- Reference Chart: Keep a tuning guide handy for the tuning you’re aiming for.
- Your Ears: Tuning by ear can help refine the sound for specific styles.
Popular Open Tunings for Acoustic Guitar
1. Open D (DADF#AD)
Open D tuning creates a D major chord. It’s perfect for slide guitar and has a deep, rich tone.
How to Tune:
- 6th string: Lower E to D
- 5th string: Lower A to G
- 4th string: D stays the same
- 3rd string: Lower G to F#
- 2nd string: Lower B to A
- 1st string: Lower E to D
Genres: Blues, folk, rock.
2. Open G (DGDGBD)
Open G tuning produces a G major chord. It’s commonly used in blues, rock, and slide guitar.
How to Tune:
- 6th string: Lower E to D
- 5th string: A stays the same
- 4th string: D stays the same
- 3rd string: G stays the same
- 2nd string: B stays the same
- 1st string: Lower E to D
Famous Artists: Keith Richards (The Rolling Stones).
3. Open C (CGCGCE)
Open C offers a bright and vibrant sound, often used in folk and experimental music.
How to Tune:
- 6th string: Lower E to C
- 5th string: Lower A to G
- 4th string: Lower D to C
- 3rd string: G stays the same
- 2nd string: Lower B to C
- 1st string: E stays the same
Genres: Folk, fingerstyle.
4. Open E (EBEG#BE)
Open E tuning creates an E major chord. It’s versatile and great for slide guitar and rock music.
How to Tune:
- 6th string: E stays the same
- 5th string: Lower A to B
- 4th string: D stays the same
- 3rd string: Lower G# to E
- 2nd string: Lower B to G#
- 1st string: E stays the same
5. Open A (EAEAC#E)
Open A is popular in blues and slide guitar, offering a higher-pitched resonant tone.
How to Tune:
- 6th string: E stays the same
- 5th string: Lower A stays the same
- 4th string: Lower D to E
- 3rd string: G# stays the same
- 2nd string: C# stays the same
- 1st string: Lower B stays the same
Step-by-Step: How to Tune to Open Tunings
1. Loosen or Tighten the Strings
Use your tuner to adjust each string to the correct note for the desired tuning. Turn the tuning peg clockwise to loosen the string and counterclockwise to tighten it.
2. Check Your Progress
After tuning each string, pluck all six strings together to ensure they create the desired chord.
3. Test with Basic Strumming
Play an open chord to confirm that the tuning sounds clean and resonant.
Tips for Using Open Tunings
- Stretch the Strings
After adjusting the tuning, gently stretch the strings to stabilize them and prevent slipping. - Practice New Chord Shapes
Explore unique chord voicings and fingerpicking techniques that work well with open tunings. - Experiment with Slides
Open tunings are ideal for slide guitar. Use a metal or glass slide to enhance your sound. - Check Tuning Regularly
Open tunings can cause strings to go out of tune more quickly, so check often.
Common Questions About Open Tunings
1. Will open tunings damage my guitar?
No, open tunings are safe for your guitar as long as you don’t overtighten the strings.
2. Can I use open tunings on any acoustic guitar?
Yes, open tunings work on all acoustic guitars, but they’re particularly effective on guitars with a resonant tone.
3. Do I need special strings for open tunings?
Not necessarily, but heavier gauge strings may provide better tension and sound for lower tunings.
4. Which open tuning is best for beginners?
Open G or Open D are great starting points due to their simplicity and versatility.
Final Thoughts
Tuning your acoustic guitar to open tunings opens a world of musical possibilities. Whether you’re exploring new genres or adding a unique twist to your playing, open tunings can inspire creativity and elevate your sound.
Grab your guitar, experiment with these tunings, and discover the magic of open chords. Happy playing!