Tuning is a fundamental skill ukulele students must learn because poorly tuned strings won’t produce the right sounds. The instrument must be tuned as follows: the fourth string on G, the third on C, the second on E, and the first on A. Here are a few ways students can tune their instrument.

3 Ways to Tune a Ukulele

1. Relative

Standard, or relative, tuning involves adjusting the strings to one another. This method uses the first string as a reference for the others. To tune, place your finger on a fret above the reference string and adjust the tuners until the two strings sound the same. Since this method uses a string as a reference, it may not be as accurate as other techniques.

2. Keyboard

You can also tune ukuleles utilizing a keyboard or piano as the reference. This method involves adjusting each string so that it sounds like its keyboard equivalent. Think of do-re-mi as you tune. The G string should sound like sol, C should resonate like do, E should be similar to mi, and A should sound like la.

3. Digital

Knowing how to do relative and keyboard tuning can be helpful, especially if you’re trying to train your ears to hear the difference between different notes. However, if you’re in a hurry and need a perfectly tuned instrument, digital tuners offer an easy fix. All you need to do is clip the tuner on the head, pluck a string, and adjust as needed.

If you want to start playing this instrument, buy one from Kanile’a ‘Ukulele in Kaneohe, HI. For over 20 years, this family-owned company has been crafting high-quality ukuleles for clients around the world. They also sell a variety of accessories, including strings and clip-on tuners. View their products online, or call (808) 234-2868 to place an order.