Open A (E A E A C# E)
Open tunings retune the strings so that playing all open strings produces a full chord, typically a major triad. Open G (D-G-D-G-B-D) and Open D (D-A-D-F#-A-D) are the most common. These tunings are essential for slide guitar; since any barre produces a chord, you can play the entire instrument with a slide. Open tunings also create sympathetic resonance, as multiple strings ring together in harmony.
Tuner
Open A (E A E A C# E) • 6 strings • 440 Hz
Detected
Target
82.4 Hz
Select String
Click to select • Tap play to hear reference toneReady to tune?
Click "Start Listening" and play any string. The tuner will automatically detect which string you're playing and show you how to adjust it.
Note Layout
Notation
E2 A2 E3 A3 C#4 E4
How to Tune
Click "Start Listening"
Allow microphone access when prompted.
Play Each String
Auto-detect will find the string, or click to select manually.
Adjust Until Green
Center the needle and watch for the green "In Tune" indicator.
Tips for Open tunings
Strum all open strings to hear the base chord
Barre across any fret for an instant chord
Popular in blues, folk, and fingerstyle guitar
Slide players use open tunings almost exclusively
About open tunings
History & context
Open tunings have roots in African-American blues of the early 20th century. Delta blues pioneers used open tunings for bottleneck slide playing. The Rolling Stones, Joni Mitchell, and countless folk artists expanded their use.