Ukulele: High-G vs. Low-G tuning

When a student purchases their first ukulele (or even their fifth), it is almost always strung and tuned with the High-G tuning. Whether they purchase a book, explore online resources, or work with a teacher, these approaches tend to reinforce the use of High-G tuning.

To better understand this, we need to ask a few key questions: What are High-G and Low-G tunings? What are the benefits and drawbacks of each? And how do we decide which tuning is best?

High-G tuning is what is known as "re-entrant" tuning, meaning the strings are not arranged in a typical high-to-low progression across the instrument. In High-G tuning, the first string is an A, the second string is an E, the third string is a C, and the fourth string is a G. However, this fourth string G is actually pitched higher than the second string E. So, when playing the notes in descending order on a High-G tuned ukulele, you would play the first string (A), followed by the fourth (G), second (E), and finally the third (C).

Low-G tuning, on the other hand, follows the same note structure as High-G, but with the significant difference that the fourth string G is tuned an octave lower. This means the strings follow a traditional high-to-low order from first to fourth.

There is some debate regarding the origin of the default High-G tuning, but the prevailing belief is that the thicker, heavier Low-G string was historically more expensive and difficult to produce with the materials traditionally available.

The advantage of High-G tuning is that it provides what many regard as a more "authentic" Hawaiian sound. Interestingly, some of the more popular traditional Hawaiian musicians, upon closer examination, actually use Low-G tuning.

Additionally, there is a more advanced style of ukulele playing known as "clawhammer," which specifically requires High-G tuning.

Low-G tuning offers broader advantages. Its note arrangement closely resembles that of a guitar, making the playing of scales, fingerstyle techniques, and varied strum patterns more accessible. Furthermore, this tuning can facilitate an easier transition from ukulele to guitar, which can be especially beneficial for younger students who aim to eventually play guitar. Beginning with a Low-G tuned ukulele allows for a smoother transition as they grow into the guitar.

If you've already learned to strum chords on a High-G tuned ukulele, the shift to Low-G tuning is quite simple. The chord shapes remain identical. However, if you've developed intricate arrangements in High-G tuning, you may find they don’t resonate as well when played in Low-G.

Currently, I am using Worth Brown Strings for my Low-G tuning setup.