Tuning your guitar to an open tuning can transform your playing experience, providing you with new sounds and opportunities for creativity. Open G tuning is particularly popular among blues, rock, and folk musicians, known for its distinct resonance and easy chord shapes. If you’re a guitar player looking to explore new textures and expand your musical vocabulary, learning how to tune to Open G is a great place to start.
In this article, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know to tune your guitar to Open G, from understanding the tuning itself to learning how to play chords and songs in this tuning.
What is Open G Tuning?
Open G tuning is a type of alternate tuning in which the strings of your guitar are adjusted to form a G major chord when played open (without pressing down any frets). It’s called “open” because when you strum the strings without pressing down any notes, the open strings naturally form a G major chord.
In standard tuning (EADGBE), the guitar’s strings are tuned to specific notes that allow you to play in a variety of keys. In open tunings like Open G, the goal is to change the pitch of the strings so that you can more easily play certain chords. For Open G, this involves lowering some of the strings and leaving others at their standard tuning.
The Open G Tuning Setup
To tune your guitar to Open G, you need to adjust the strings from standard tuning (EADGBE) to a new set of pitches. Here’s how you do it:
Low E string (6th string): Tune down to D.
A string (5th string): Tune down to G.
D string (4th string): Keep it at D (no change).
G string (3rd string): Keep it at G (no change).
B string (2nd string): Tune down to D.
High E string (1st string): Tune down to G.
The final tuning for Open G is: D G D G B D (from 6th string to 1st string).
It’s important to note that tuning to Open G involves both lowering and tuning certain strings to new pitches. To ensure accuracy, use a tuner or tuning app to help you get the exact pitch for each string.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Tuning to Open G
Now that you know the desired tuning, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you tune your guitar to Open G:
1. Tune the Low E string (6th string) to D
Start by tuning the low E string (6th string) down to D. This will require you to loosen the string, so it’s important to do this slowly to avoid snapping the string. Use a tuner to check the pitch as you tune. You should aim for a D note, which is two whole steps below the standard E.
2. Tune the A string (5th string) to G
Next, tune the A string (5th string) down to G. This is a full step down from A, so be sure to check your tuning frequently as you adjust. G is the root note of the Open G chord, so it’s important that this string is tuned precisely.
3. Leave the D string (4th string) at D
The D string (4th string) remains unchanged in Open G. Simply leave it as it is, tuned to D. This string will be played as an open note in many chords and serves as the fifth of the G chord.
4. Leave the G string (3rd string) at G
Similarly, the G string (3rd string) stays at G, which is the third note of the G major chord. This string is also played open in many chord shapes in Open G tuning.
5. Tune the B string (2nd string) to D
Tune the B string (2nd string) down to D, just like the low E string. This is a half-step down from the standard B, and it’s important for maintaining the harmonic integrity of the open G chord.
6. Tune the High E string (1st string) to G
Finally, tune the high E string (1st string) down to G. This is a full step down from the standard E, just like the low E string. You should now have a high G note on the 1st string, which is another important note in the Open G chord.
Why Tune to Open G?
Open G tuning offers several benefits for guitar players, especially in genres like blues, folk, and rock. Here are a few reasons why musicians choose Open G:
1. Simplified Chord Shapes
In Open G, the open strings form a G major chord. This means that you can play a G chord simply by strumming all the open strings without pressing down on any frets. This makes it easier to play rhythm guitar, as you don’t need to worry about finger placement for basic chords.
2. Rich, Resonant Sound
Because the guitar is tuned to a chord, Open G tuning produces a rich, resonant sound when you strum the strings. The G major chord that is formed by the open strings is full and harmonically rich, giving you a warm, full sound even without pressing any strings.
3. Suitability for Slide Guitar
Open tunings like Open G are ideal for slide guitar. The open G chord provides a strong foundation for playing slide guitar, as you can use the slide bar to glide along the strings, creating smooth and expressive bends. This is especially popular in blues and rock genres.
4. Creativity and New Possibilities
Open G opens up new possibilities for creativity on the guitar. With the strings tuned to a specific chord, you can focus on melodic lines and voicings that would be difficult to achieve in standard tuning. This makes it easier to experiment with fingerpicking patterns, melodies, and harmonies.
How to Play Chords in Open G Tuning
Once your guitar is tuned to Open G, you’ll need to adjust how you play chords. Here are some essential chords in Open G tuning:
1. G Major Chord (Open Position)
To play the G major chord, simply strum all the strings without pressing any frets. This is the “open” G chord, and it sounds full and resonant. All the strings are tuned to fit into the G major chord, so this is the foundation of the tuning.
2. C Major Chord
To play a C major chord in Open G, press down on the 2nd fret of the 4th string (D), and the 3rd fret of the 5th string (A). Strum all the strings except the 6th string (low D), as you only need the top five strings for this chord.
3. D Major Chord
For the D major chord, press down the 2nd fret of the 1st string (high G) and the 3rd fret of the 2nd string (B). Again, strum all strings except for the 6th string (low D).
4. A Minor Chord
To play an A minor chord, press down the 2nd fret of the 4th string (D) and the 2nd fret of the 3rd string (G). Strum all strings except the 6th string (low D).
Famous Songs Played in Open G Tuning
Many iconic songs have been written and performed in Open G tuning, especially in genres like blues, rock, and folk. Here are a few famous songs you can play in Open G:
1. “Brown Sugar” by The Rolling Stones
This classic rock song by The Rolling Stones is one of the most famous examples of Open G tuning. The song’s signature riff is played in this tuning, making it an essential song for any guitarist interested in exploring Open G.
2. “Start Me Up” by The Rolling Stones
Another Rolling Stones hit, “Start Me Up” is another great example of how Open G can be used in rock music. The riff is simple yet powerful, demonstrating the versatility of this tuning.
3. “You Can’t Always Get What You Want” by The Rolling Stones
This song is a perfect example of how Open G can add a distinctive sound to a composition. The Open G tuning gives the song its spacious, resonant feel.
4. “Going Down” by Freddie King
Freddie King’s blues classic “Going Down” is played in Open G, showcasing how slide guitar can shine in this tuning. The deep, soulful bends and slides are made easier with the tuning, and the overall tone is full and expressive.
Conclusion
Tuning your guitar to Open G opens up a whole new world of sound possibilities. Whether you’re drawn to the rich resonance, the simplicity of chord shapes, or the slide guitar potential, Open G is a tuning that every guitarist should explore. By following the steps in this guide, you’ll be able to quickly tune your guitar to Open G and start playing new chords, songs, and techniques.
If you’re looking to expand your musical horizons, learning how to tune to Open G is a rewarding and enjoyable experience. So, grab your guitar, tune up, and start experimenting with this fantastic tuning today!
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