Standard Tuning
This tuner is preset to Standard tuning. The instrument type and tuning are locked for this page.
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Popular Songs in Standard
Practice these carefully selected songs to get familiar with Standard tuning. Each song showcases different techniques and chord progressions possible with this tuning.
View all 20 songs in StandardWonderwall
Oasis
Perfect for learning basic chord progressions in standard tuning.
Hotel California
Eagles
Iconic song featuring complex fingerpicking and lead guitar.
Blackbird
The Beatles
Beautiful fingerpicking arrangement in standard tuning.
Stairway to Heaven
Led Zeppelin
Epic song showcasing fingerpicking, strumming, and lead techniques.
Wish You Were Here
Pink Floyd
Classic intro with beautiful chord progressions and lead work.
More Than Words
Extreme
Popular fingerpicking song great for developing technique.
Why These Songs Work Well in Standard
These songs were specifically chosen because they take advantage of Standard tuning's unique characteristics. Whether it's the open chord voicings, easier fingering patterns, or the distinctive sound that this tuning provides, each song demonstrates why many guitarists choose Standard for their music. Practice these songs to develop your ear for this tuning and discover new playing techniques.
💡 Practice Tips for Standard
- • Start with the beginner-level songs to get comfortable with the tuning
- • Focus on how chord shapes differ from standard tuning
- • Listen to the original recordings to understand the intended sound
- • Practice transitioning between Standard and standard tuning
- • Experiment with the open strings to discover new chord voicings
About Standard Tuning
Standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E) is the universal default for guitar. Nearly all guitar instruction, tab books, and online tutorials assume standard tuning, making it the essential foundation for every guitarist. The intervals between strings are perfect fourths except between G and B, which is a major third.
This tuning has been the standard since the 19th century because it balances playability with range. The open strings span two octaves, chord shapes fall naturally under the fingers, and scales lay out in logical patterns across the fretboard. From classical to metal, jazz to pop, standard tuning handles it all.
If you're a beginner, start here. Even experienced players who use alternate tunings regularly keep coming back to standard — it's the reference point that all other tunings are measured against. Master standard tuning first, and every alternate tuning will make more sense.
Recommended String Gauges for Standard
Light gauge (.009-.042) is popular for beginners and lead players — easier to bend and fret. Medium gauge (.010-.046) offers more body and volume, preferred by rhythm players and those who want a fuller sound. Acoustic guitars typically use .012-.053 or heavier. Choose based on your playing style and comfort.
Common Chords in Standard
E Minor
Fingers on 2nd fret of A and D strings. One of the easiest chords — strum all six strings open.
G Major
A staple open chord using all six strings. Found in thousands of songs across every genre.
C Major
The classic open C shape. Pairs naturally with G, Am, and F for countless progressions.
D Major
Bright, ringing chord on the top four strings. Essential for folk, rock, and pop.
How to Tune to Standard (E2-A2-D3-G3-B3-E4)
Start with the 5th string (A). Use a tuner, pitch pipe, or reference tone to get A2 (110 Hz) accurate — this is your anchor note.
Tune the 6th string (low E) by fretting the 6th string at the 5th fret — it should match the open 5th string (A).
Tune the 4th string (D) by fretting the 5th string at the 5th fret — it should match the open 4th string.
Tune the 3rd string (G) by fretting the 4th string at the 5th fret — it should match the open 3rd string.
Tune the 2nd string (B) by fretting the 3rd string at the 4th fret (not the 5th!) — it should match the open 2nd string.
Tune the 1st string (high E) by fretting the 2nd string at the 5th fret — it should match the open 1st string. Then double-check all strings with the tuner.