Tuning Your Guitar
One of the first skills necessary when learning to play the guitar has to be the process of tuning it. The wonderful thing about a guitar, and all string instruments, is the ability to tune to itself. This means that all strings can be in a state of “tuneness” with each other whether or not they are truly in tune as far as correct acoustically resonating pitches are concerned. For example, the true resonating frequency for the note “A” is 440 hz using a strobe tuner; if a tuner is not available, one can pick from a range of tones for this “A string” and then tune other strings to that theoretical “A”. Now, one must realize that if a tone is picked that is too far removed from the spectrum of a true “A” tone, this might prove difficult when tuning higher strings; undue stress could be placed upon their tensile strength, resulting in breakage from over-tightening. It is best to receive a true tone from either a tuner or perhaps a nearby piano (though they are not always in tune!) and begin the process.
It is easiest to begin with the lowest sounding string that should be tuned to the note “E” resonating at 329 hz. Match the tone given by the tuner or chosen instrument by turning the tuning pegs on the headstock of the guitar clockwise or counter-clockwise until the pitch lines up in your ear or on the meter of the tuner. You have now successfully tuned the lowest guitar string and are now one sixth of the way towards completion! Now look at the guitar neck. It is separated into different quadrants by vertically aligned pieces of metal called “frets”. The space to the left of each metal division or “fret” is usually also referred to as the fret position corresponding to the number of the dividing fret (metal piece). By pushing this “E” string to the fretboard at the fifth position (to the left of the 5th fret if you are right handed), it will result in the next string unfretted, or “A”, 440 hz. Turn the tuning peg to match accordingly. In order, the next four strings should be tuned in the same fashion: 3rd string “D”, fifth position on 2nd string, “A” – 4th string “G”, fifth position on 3rd string “D” – 5th string “B”, FOURTH position on 4th string “G” – and 6th string “E”, fifth position on 5th string “B”.
Following this easy procedure has resulted in your guitar being in tune with true acoustically resonating pitches provided the guitar is properly constructed. One way to make certain your guitar is made properly is by purchasing it from or having it inspected by a respected local dealer like Strait Music Company of Austin, Texas. Friendly musicians are employed by music stores and are happy to help answer all questions a budding guitarist might have.
About the Author: Clint Strait is a third generation owner and assistant manager of the Strait Music, Austin Music Stores, providing the best selection of electric guitars and guitar accessories to Austin and the surrounding area for over forty years. For more information please visit www.straitmusic.com.
It is easiest to begin with the lowest sounding string that should be tuned to the note “E” resonating at 329 hz. Match the tone given by the tuner or chosen instrument by turning the tuning pegs on the headstock of the guitar clockwise or counter-clockwise until the pitch lines up in your ear or on the meter of the tuner. You have now successfully tuned the lowest guitar string and are now one sixth of the way towards completion! Now look at the guitar neck. It is separated into different quadrants by vertically aligned pieces of metal called “frets”. The space to the left of each metal division or “fret” is usually also referred to as the fret position corresponding to the number of the dividing fret (metal piece). By pushing this “E” string to the fretboard at the fifth position (to the left of the 5th fret if you are right handed), it will result in the next string unfretted, or “A”, 440 hz. Turn the tuning peg to match accordingly. In order, the next four strings should be tuned in the same fashion: 3rd string “D”, fifth position on 2nd string, “A” – 4th string “G”, fifth position on 3rd string “D” – 5th string “B”, FOURTH position on 4th string “G” – and 6th string “E”, fifth position on 5th string “B”.
Following this easy procedure has resulted in your guitar being in tune with true acoustically resonating pitches provided the guitar is properly constructed. One way to make certain your guitar is made properly is by purchasing it from or having it inspected by a respected local dealer like Strait Music Company of Austin, Texas. Friendly musicians are employed by music stores and are happy to help answer all questions a budding guitarist might have.
About the Author: Clint Strait is a third generation owner and assistant manager of the Strait Music, Austin Music Stores, providing the best selection of electric guitars and guitar accessories to Austin and the surrounding area for over forty years. For more information please visit www.straitmusic.com.
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