Mandolin Tunings

The standard mandolin tuning, identical to violin tuning. Strings are tuned in perfect fifths from low G3 to high E5. Each course (pair of strings) is tuned in unison. Used in bluegrass, classical, folk, and virtually all mandolin genres.

An open tuning that produces a G major chord when all courses are strummed open. Popular in folk, blues, and old-time music. Makes it easy to play in the key of G with simple chord shapes.

Produces an open D major chord. Commonly used in Celtic and folk mandolin playing. The lower overall pitch creates a warm, resonant tone well-suited to drone-based accompaniment.

Also known as sawmill or calico tuning with the high string dropped to D. Very popular in Celtic and Irish mandolin playing. The two D strings create a rich drone effect that's perfect for jigs and reels.

An old-time Appalachian tuning with octave G and D pairs. Creates a powerful drone sound ideal for old-time fiddle tunes. The open fifths give a raw, driving rhythm that defines the old-time mandolin sound.

Produces an open A major chord. Used in some old-time and experimental mandolin playing. The lower range creates a guitar-like depth that works well for accompanying singers and other instruments.