When properly tuned, the guitar produces a pleasant, harmonious sound. When out of tune, it sounds discordant and hard on the ears. For this reason, the first thing every student should learn is how to properly tune the instrument.Relative tuning
In relative tuning each string is tuned relative to the string before it. Note that, although the strings are in tune with one another, it does not mean they are in concert pitch or in tune with other instruments.
As noted previously, the strings of the guitar are named after the note they produce when the guitar is tuned to concert pitch (standard tuning). Tighten the sixth string (E) until it produces a clean sound when plucked (no buzzing sound). Place your index finger behind the fifth fret on the sixth string. Use the machine heads to adjust the tension on the fifth string (A) until it produces the same note as the sixth string fingered at the fifth fret. Once the fifth string has been tuned, place the index finger behind the fifth fret of the fifth string and adjust the tension on the fourth string (D) until it produces the same note as the fifth string at the fifth fret.
Follow through for each string, as per the illustration. Note the one exception. When tuning the second string, finger the third string (G) behind the fourth fret.
Tuning to a piano
To tune the instrument exactly to concert pitch, you’ll need an electronic guitar tuner or some other tuning aid, such as pitch pipes, a piano or another guitar which you know to be tuned to concert pitch. The illustration shows the relationship between the piano keyboard and the strings of the guitar. Assuming the piano is in tune, just tune the guitar string to the corresponding note on the piano. For the record, middle “C” is usually located directly under the manufacturers logo or name on the piano.
Electronic tuners
The fastest (and easiest) way to tune a guitar is with an electronic tuner. There are many good models available and they are quite inexpensive. I’d recommend an investment in an electronic tuner. They’re small and fit nicely in most guitar cases or gig bags. And you really should tune your guitar each and every time you pick it up to practice.
