Cross Tuning (GDAD) Tuning
Tune your mandolin to Cross Tuning (GDAD) — G3, D4, A4, D5
About Cross Tuning (GDAD) Tuning
Cross tuning GDAD (G3-D4-A4-D5) drops the highest course from E5 to D5, creating two courses tuned to D an octave apart. This is the most popular alternate tuning in Celtic mandolin playing — the octave D strings create a powerful drone effect that perfectly suits Irish jigs, reels, and slow airs.
Irish mandolinist Andy Irvine popularized GDAD for Celtic music, and it has since become the standard alternate tuning for mandolin players in session circles. The paired D drones on the open 2nd and 4th courses let the player maintain a constant D reference while moving freely through melodies on the G and A courses.
GDAD preserves three of the four standard courses — only the E changes to D. This means most standard-tuning fingering patterns still work on the lower three courses, making the transition relatively easy. The retuned E course gives you a high D that opens up new melodic possibilities and double-stop options.
String Notes
Recommended Strings
Standard strings work well for GDAD. Only the E course changes — dropping from E5 to D5, which slightly reduces tension on the thinnest strings. This is a modest change that standard strings handle without issue. No special set is needed.
How to Tune to Cross Tuning (GDAD)
- 1.Start from standard GDAE. Only the highest course changes.
- 2.Lower the E course from E5 down to D5 (587.33 Hz). A whole step drop.
- 3.All other courses stay at standard pitch: G3, D4, A4.
- 4.Verify by picking the open D course (D4) and the retuned top course (D5) — they should be exactly one octave apart.
- 5.Strum open strings — you should hear G-D-A-D, with the two D octaves creating a characteristic ringing drone.
Common Chords in Cross Tuning (GDAD)
D Drone (open)
The two D courses ring in octaves, creating the quintessential Celtic mandolin drone sound.
G Major
Standard G shapes work on the lower courses, with the D drone adding a sus4 color. Beautiful for jigs.
A Major
The open A course serves as the root, with the D strings providing the fourth. Classic Celtic harmonic territory.
Em
E minor against the D drone creates a moody, atmospheric sound perfect for slow airs.