Standard tenor ukulele tuning is G-C-E-A. In High-G, the fourth string sounds G4; in Low-G it is G3, one octave lower. Low-G needs a compatible string set: do not simply tune a standard high G string down.
Here are the notes in order, how High-G and Low-G differ, and what to check with a tuner or before using DGBE. For help choosing an instrument, see our tenor ukulele buying guide and ukulele size guide.
| Tuning | Notes | Pitch order |
|---|---|---|
| High-G | G4 – C4 – E4 – A4 | G4 is higher than C4; re-entrant |
| Low-G | G3 – C4 – E4 – A4 | ascending from low to high |
| Baritone DGBE | D3 – G3 – B3 – E4 | standard baritone tuning |
Read the sequence from the 4th string (uppermost in playing position) to the 1st. Note letters use international notation.
01Understanding standard GCEA tuning
In common High-G tuning, the notes are G4, C4, E4 and A4, from the 4th to the 1st string when you hold the instrument in playing position. The sequence is not ordered by string thickness. On a tenor, the G is G4, above C4.
The lowercase g in gCEA signals the high G. This re-entrant tuning is common on tenor ukuleles. When tuning, check both the letter and the octave on the display: G3 and G4 have the same letter but are an octave apart.
02Comparing High-G and Low-G
With High-G, the fourth string sounds G4, above the neighbouring C4. The pitches do not rise steadily across the strings. A compatible Low-G set replaces that string with G3, one octave below the High-G G4. The lowest open note is then G3 rather than C4, a fourth lower.
High-G suits the common re-entrant setup and chord accompaniment. Low-G can be useful for melodies, fingerstyle and arrangements that need lower notes. The choice depends on repertoire and range; tuning alone does not guarantee a particular tone.
03Choosing compatible Low-G strings
Do not simply tune a standard High-G string down an octave. Its gauge is not designed for G3; it may sound slack or rattle. Use a single Low-G string or a tenor Low-G set specified for your model. Follow the maker’s guidance for string gauge and tuning.
To change the string, loosen the old one, fit the replacement as the maker specifies, then tune up slowly to G3. New nylon strings often need retuning at first.
A compatible set is the D’Addario EJ65TLG Low-G tenor set. For High-G, the D’Addario EJ87T Titanium tenor set is one example. Find other sets in the ukulele strings collection. Check the exact variant and maker’s specifications.
04Tuning with a clip-on tuner or app
A clip-on tuner senses vibration at the headstock, so it is useful in a noisy room. A tuning app uses the microphone and works best in a quiet space. Choose chromatic or ukulele mode and check that the display shows the intended octave.
Tune each string separately and turn the peg slowly. Approach the target from below; if you go past it, tune back under the target before raising the pitch again. A4 is commonly set to 440 Hz. After fitting a new string, check the other strings again.
05DGBE: use a compatible string set
D-G-B-E is the standard tuning of the baritone ukulele. Some tenor players also use DGBE, but it is not a universal recommendation for every model. Use it only when the maker and a compatible string set specify it for your instrument.
If your lesson material calls for DGBE, first check whether it is written for a baritone or tenor and which strings your instrument needs. GCEA remains the common starting point for tenor ukulele; within it, choose High-G or Low-G for the range you want.
Standard tenor tuning is GCEA. High-G is G4-C4-E4-A4; Low-G is G3-C4-E4-A4. Use strings compatible with the instrument for Low-G or DGBE.
Frequently asked questions
What notes is a tenor ukulele tuned to?
What is the difference between High-G and Low-G?
Can I tune a normal G string down to Low-G?
Which tuner works for a tenor ukulele?
Can I tune a tenor ukulele to DGBE?
Explore strings and tenor ukuleles
Compare High-G and Low-G sets with a tenor ukulele that suits your tuning.
See ukulele stringsLow-G tenor set