The Tenor Open G tuning is an exciting way to transform your Ukulele, specifically a Tenor model, into a versatile instrument that can mimic the rich, full sound of a Tenor Guitar's open G tuning. This particular configuration sets your Ukulele's open strings to G-D-B-D from lowest to highest, meaning that a simple strum of all open strings instantly produces a clear G Major chord (G, B, D).

Technical Analysis:

• The final tuning notes from String 4 (lowest) to String 1 (highest) are G2, D3, B3, D4.
• When played open, these notes perfectly outline a G Major triad, making the key of G exceptionally accessible and resonant.
• This is a linear tuning, meaning the pitch ascends consistently across all four strings. This contrasts with common re-entrant ukulele tunings where the 4th string (G) is often pitched higher than the 3rd string (C).
• The intervals between the open strings are designed for harmonic richness:
  • String 4 (G2) to String 3 (D3): A perfect fifth (7 semitones).
  • String 3 (D3) to String 2 (B3): A major third (4 semitones).
  • String 2 (B3) to String 1 (D4): A minor third (3 semitones).

Chords and Playability:

With the Tenor Open G tuning, you gain immediate access to a G Major chord by simply strumming the open strings. This simplifies playing songs in G Major and related keys. Many other major chords can be formed effortlessly by barring across all four strings at a given fret (e.g., barring the 1st fret yields G#/Ab Major, the 2nd fret yields A Major, and so on). The presence of two D notes (String 3 and String 1) adds a beautiful sustain and can simplify fingerings for certain chord voicings and melodic passages. You'll find it easier to experiment with slides, open drones, and bluesy riffs due to the open chord structure.

How to Tune:

To achieve the Tenor Open G tuning, please adjust your ukulele strings according to the following instructions. The semitone movements indicate the change required from an unspecified starting point to reach the final desired pitch. Always tune with care.

• String 4 (Lowest): Tune this string to G2. This involves tuning it up 3 semitones. This is a moderate adjustment and generally safe for standard strings.
• String 3: Tune this string to D3. This requires tuning it up 5 semitones. Important Caution: A 5-semitone increase (equivalent to a perfect fourth) significantly raises string tension. For optimal playability and to reduce the risk of string breakage, it is highly recommended to use a heavier gauge string specifically designed for higher tension for this string.
• String 2: Tune this string to B3. This string requires no change (0 semitones) to achieve its target note, assuming it was already at B3.
• String 1 (Highest): Tune this string to D4. This involves tuning it down 2 semitones. This is a minor adjustment and typically safe for standard strings.

Always pay attention to your instrument's neck and bridge during tuning to ensure stability.