The tenor guitar, with its four-string configuration, is a versatile instrument that can be tuned in a variety of ways to suit different musical styles. Whether you’re looking to emulate traditional folk sounds, jazz voicings, or create a unique sonic identity, exploring alternate tunings can open new doors in your playing. In this article, we will explore some of the most popular and interesting alternate tunings for the tenor guitar.

Standard Tunings

Before diving into alternate tunings, it’s important to note the common standard tunings used for tenor guitars:

• CGDA (Fifth Tuning) – The traditional tuning, similar to a viola or mandola, commonly used in jazz and early folk music.

• GDAE (Mandolin/Fiddle Tuning) – Popular among Celtic and folk musicians, this tuning matches the mandolin and violin, making it familiar for players of those instruments.

• DGBE (Chicago Tuning) – Matches the top four strings of a standard guitar, making it easy for six-string guitarists to adapt to the tenor guitar.

Alternate Tunings

Here are some exciting alternate tunings to try on your tenor guitar:

1. Open G (DGBD)

This tuning is great for blues, slide playing, and folk music. Open G allows for easy barre chord formations and has a rich, resonant sound that suits fingerpicking and strumming alike.

2. Open D (DADF#)

Favored in blues and folk music, Open D offers a deep, rich tone. It allows for easy slide guitar playing and provides a droning effect that works well in modal and folk-based compositions.

3. GDAD (Celtic Tuning)

Commonly used in Irish and Celtic music, GDAD creates a droning effect that is well-suited for traditional melodies and accompaniment styles.

4. DGDG (Double Open G)

This tuning produces a powerful drone effect and works well for modal playing. It’s an excellent choice for creating rhythmic, percussive playing styles.

5. CGCG (Double Open C)

This tuning creates a rich and deep resonance, making it perfect for folk and experimental playing. It allows for interesting chord voicings and easy harmonics.

6. EADG or DGBE (Guitar Tuning)

These tunings follow the same intervals as a guitar, making it a great crossover for guitarists who want to experiment with tenor guitar.

8. AEAE (Modal Tuning)

A drone-heavy tuning that works well for folk and old-time music. It allows for easy cross-picking and fiddle tune-style playing.

Choosing the Right Tuning

Experimenting with alternate tunings can unlock new creative potential and expand the sonic capabilities of your tenor guitar. Whether you are exploring new genres, finding a fresh voice for your compositions, or simply looking to reinvigorate your playing, trying out different tunings is a rewarding experience. So grab your tenor guitar and start exploring!