One of the distinctive features of the ukulele is its reentrant tuning, a tuning arrangement that sets it apart from other stringed instruments like the guitar. Reentrant tuning contributes to the ukulele’s unique sound and playability, making it a favorite among musicians and enthusiasts. In this article, we’ll explore what reentrant tuning is, how it’s achieved, and the impact it has on the ukulele’s sweet and charming sound.
Understanding Reentrant Tuning
Reentrant tuning, also known as high G tuning, is a tuning system where one of the strings is tuned to a higher pitch than the string next to it, rather than following a strict ascending order in pitch. In the case of the ukulele, the third (G) string is typically tuned higher in pitch than the fourth (C) string, creating the characteristic reentrant sound.
The standard tuning for a soprano, concert, or tenor ukulele in reentrant tuning is usually G-C-E-A, from the top (closest to your face) string to the bottom (closest to the ground) string. This means that the G string, the third string from the top, is tuned to a higher pitch than the C string, the fourth string.
Achieving Reentrant Tuning
To tune your ukulele in reentrant tuning, follow these steps:
- Start with the Fourth String (A): Tune the fourth string, the one closest to the ground when you’re holding the ukulele, to an A note. This is typically done using an electronic tuner or by matching it with an already tuned instrument.
- Tune the Third String (G): The third string, the one just above the fourth string, is tuned to a G note, which is higher in pitch than the A string.
- Tune the Second String (E): The second string, located below the third string, is tuned to an E note.
- Tune the First String (A): The first string, the one at the top closest to your face, is also tuned to an A note, but it’s typically an octave higher than the fourth string.
The Sweet Sound of Reentrant Tuning
Reentrant tuning imparts several distinctive qualities to the ukulele’s sound:
- Bright and Cheerful: Reentrant tuning gives the ukulele its signature bright and cheerful sound. The high G string adds a sparkling quality to chords and melodies, making the ukulele sound instantly recognizable.
- Chord Voicings: Reentrant tuning allows for unique chord voicings and inversions that are not as easily achievable on other instruments like the guitar. This makes the ukulele a versatile and expressive instrument for chord-based music.
- Melodic Range: The reentrant tuning enables easy access to higher notes on the ukulele, making it well-suited for melodic playing and intricate fingerpicking patterns.
- Rhythmic Play: The high G string can be used for percussive elements in your playing, enhancing rhythmic patterns and strumming techniques.
- Traditional Sound: Many traditional and folk songs are written with reentrant tuning in mind, and it’s an integral part of the ukulele’s cultural heritage.
Reentrant Tuning Variations
While G-C-E-A is the standard reentrant tuning for soprano, concert, and tenor ukuleles, there are variations, such as low G tuning, where the fourth string is tuned to a lower G note. Low G tuning offers a deeper and fuller sound, similar to a guitar, and provides additional tonal versatility.
In conclusion, reentrant tuning is a fundamental aspect of the ukulele’s charm and appeal. It contributes to the instrument’s bright and cheerful sound, unique chord voicings, and melodic capabilities. Whether you’re strumming chords or picking intricate melodies, reentrant tuning defines the sweet sound of the ukulele, making it an instrument beloved by musicians and audiences alike.
