Guitar tuning is a fundamental skill for every guitarist. While standard tuning (EADGBE) is the most common, there are several alternative tunings that can be easier to work with, especially for beginners or those looking to explore new sounds. In this article, we’ll explore some of the easiest tunings for the A guitar, focusing on tunings that simplify chord formations and offer unique sonic possibilities.
1. Open A Tuning (E-A-C♯-E-A-E)
Open A tuning is a popular choice for those looking to create rich, resonant sounds and play slide guitar. Here’s how to tune your guitar to Open A:
- Low E string (6th string) to A: Raise the pitch to match the 5th string (A).
- A string (5th string): Remains unchanged.
- D string (4th string) to C♯: Lower the pitch to match the 3rd string (C♯).
- G string (3rd string): Remains unchanged.
- B string (2nd string) to A: Lower the pitch to match the 5th string (A).
- High E string (1st string) to E: Remains unchanged.
Open A tuning simplifies playing major and minor chords and creates a lush, open sound perfect for slide guitar.
2. Open G Tuning (D-G-D-G-B-D)
While Open G tuning is not an “A guitar” tuning per se, it’s worth mentioning because it offers simplicity and versatility. To achieve Open G tuning, you’ll tune your guitar as follows:
- Low E string (6th string) to D: Lower the pitch to match the 4th string (D).
- A string (5th string) remains unchanged.
- D string (4th string) remains unchanged.
- G string (3rd string) remains unchanged.
- B string (2nd string) remains unchanged.
- High E string (1st string) to D: Lower the pitch to match the 4th string (D).
Open G tuning simplifies forming major and minor chords and is frequently used in blues, rock, and folk music.
3. Drop D Tuning (D-A-D-G-B-E)
While Drop D tuning doesn’t center around the A note, it’s an accessible tuning that guitarists frequently use to expand their musical possibilities. To achieve Drop D tuning, simply lower the low E string (6th string) to match the D note, creating a more substantial, power chord-friendly tuning.
4. DADGAD Tuning (D-A-D-G-A-D)
DADGAD tuning is an open tuning known for its lush, Celtic and folk-inspired sound. While it doesn’t start with an A, it’s worth mentioning for its accessibility and unique qualities. To achieve DADGAD tuning, follow these steps:
- Low E string (6th string) to D: Lower the pitch to match the 4th string (D).
- A string (5th string) remains unchanged.
- D string (4th string) remains unchanged.
- G string (3rd string) remains unchanged.
- B string (2nd string) to A: Lower the pitch to match the 5th string (A).
- High E string (1st string) remains unchanged.
DADGAD tuning is easy to get the hang of and offers a wealth of creative possibilities.
Conclusion
While standard tuning is a great starting point for guitarists, experimenting with alternative tunings can open up new creative avenues and simplify playing certain chord progressions. The tunings mentioned above—Open A, Open G, Drop D, and DADGAD—are among the easiest to work with and provide unique sonic textures. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, exploring these tunings can enrich your musical journey and inspire fresh ideas on the guitar.
