Verbal Analysis

The "Triple A Low G Ukulele" tuning presents a fascinating and unusual approach, extending the familiar 4-string Low G (G-C-E-A) into a unique 6-string configuration. This tuning offers a deep, resonant foundation with the lowest G, reminiscent of a baritone ukulele's depth, while the upper three strings, all tuned to A3, create a compelling drone and harmonic richness. It's a tuning that invites experimentation, providing a sustained and shimmering 'A' sound at the top end, which can be particularly effective for fingerstyle passages, melodic lines, or creating lush, open voicings. While standard ukulele resources might not directly apply to all six strings, this tuning opens doors to creative playing, allowing for rich chord voicings and sympathetic string resonance that will give your instrument a distinctive voice. This interpretation bridges the traditional "Ukulele Low G" with a more expansive, custom setup.

Technical Analysis

The open string notes for this tuning are: G2 - C3 - E3 - A3 - A3 - A3 (from lowest to highest string). This sequence creates a rich harmonic landscape.
Breaking down the intervals from string to string:

• String 6 (G2) to String 5 (C3): Perfect 4th
• String 5 (C3) to String 4 (E3): Major 3rd
• String 4 (E3) to String 3 (A3): Perfect 4th
• String 3 (A3) to String 2 (A3): Unison
• String 2 (A3) to String 1 (A3): Unison

The core of this tuning, the first four strings (G2-C3-E3-A3), forms a complete C6 chord in first inversion (C6/G). This means that simply strumming these four strings open will produce a rich, consonant C6 sound with G in the bass. When extended to all six strings, the open tuning G2 C3 E3 A3 A3 A3 retains this strong C6/G harmony, with the additional A notes creating a powerful, sustained drone at the highest register.

Chordal Opportunities and Shapes:

• Open C6/G Chord: Strumming all six open strings immediately produces a full and vibrant C6/G chord. This serves as an excellent harmonic anchor for songwriting or improvisation.
• Drone Potential: The triple A (A3-A3-A3) on the top three strings is a defining feature. This creates a natural drone effect, making this tuning ideal for modal playing, especially in A major or A minor scales, where the open A can always resonate. It also simplifies certain chord voicings that require an A note, as multiple strings are already tuned to it.
• Easy Barre Chords: Given the open C6/G, moving this shape up the fretboard with a barre will yield other 6th chords (e.g., barre at the 2nd fret for D6/A, 3rd fret for Eb6/Bb). The unison A strings simplify maintaining the top voice of these chords.
• Suspended Chords: The presence of a perfect 4th (G-C) and major 3rd (C-E) in the lower strings lends itself to interesting suspended voicings, particularly around the G and C keys.

This tuning, while having roots in the "Ukulele Low G," significantly expands on traditional 4-string ukulele configurations. It's best suited for an extended-range ukulele or a 6-string instrument that seeks a ukulele-like chordal foundation with added harmonic sustain and drone capabilities, offering unique sonic textures not found in standard tunings.

How to Tune to Triple A Low G Ukulele

Carefully adjust each string according to the instructions below to achieve the specified target note. Pay close attention to the recommended string gauge warnings for significant pitch changes.

• String 6 (Lowest String): Target note G2. Tune up 3 semitones.
• String 5: Target note C3. Tune up 3 semitones.
• String 4: Target note E3. Tune up 2 semitones.
• String 3: Target note A3. Tune up 2 semitones.
• String 2: Target note A3. Tune down 2 semitones.
• String 1 (Highest String): Target note A3. Tune down 7 semitones. Warning: This is a significant pitch change (-7 semitones). For optimal tension and playability, a different gauge string is strongly advised if your current string is not designed for such a low tension. Tuning down this far could result in a very loose string that is difficult to play and intonate correctly.

As a general guideline, when adjusting a string's pitch by more than four semitones (up or down), it is strongly recommended to consider using a string gauge specifically suited for the new tension. This helps maintain proper intonation, prevents premature string breakage, and protects your instrument from potential stress or damage.