The G Kilauea tuning, as popularized by Daniel Ho and characteristic of Hawaiian slack key guitar, offers a vibrant and resonant soundscape. This open tuning creates an immediate sense of warmth and spaciousness, ideal for fingerstyle playing and traditional Hawaiian melodies.

Technical Analysis

This tuning transforms the standard E-A-D-G-B-E into D-G-C-G-B-E. Analyzing the open strings, we find:

• String 6 (low E) is tuned down to D2.
• String 5 (A) is tuned down to G2.
• String 4 (D) is tuned down to C3.
• String 3 (G) remains G3.
• String 2 (B) is tuned down a full octave to B2.
• String 1 (high E) remains E4.

When strummed open, the notes D-G-C-G-B-E create a rich and complex voicing. While centered around G, it strongly features the G major triad (G-B-D), enhanced by the prominent 4th (C) and 6th (E). This results in a beautiful Gmaj6(add4) or G6/9-like tonality. The abundance of G notes (G2, G3) and the low D bass provide a strong foundational resonance for the key of G. Furthermore, a full C major triad (C-E-G) is readily available across strings 4, 1, and 5/3, making chord changes between G and C particularly smooth and harmonious. This tuning encourages diatonic playing within the G major scale, with many common chord shapes becoming much simpler or available with open strings. The prominent fourth (C) on the fourth string is a hallmark of many Hawaiian tunings, adding a distinctive 'slack key' sound.

How to Tune

To achieve the G Kilauea tuning from standard EADGBe, follow these steps:

• String 6 (Low E): Tune down 2 semitones to D2.
• String 5 (A): Tune down 2 semitones to G2.
• String 4 (D): Tune down 2 semitones to C3.
• String 3 (G): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) - G3.
• String 2 (B): Tune down 12 semitones (a full octave) to B2. Warning: This drastic change often requires a much heavier gauge string to maintain tension and playability. Using a standard gauge B string for this drop may result in extreme floppiness and poor intonation.
• String 1 (High E): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) - E4.

As a general guideline, string movements exceeding 4 semitones up or down often warrant considering a different string gauge for optimal performance and to prevent string breakage or excessive floppiness. The octave drop on String 2 is particularly noteworthy.

The open string notes for G Kilauea tuning are:

• String 6: D2
• String 5: G2
• String 4: C3
• String 3: G3
• String 2: B2
• String 1: E4