Banjo Tuning with Tony Trischka

The 1st string you’ll hear is the high D. The 2nd string is a B. Listen to how it sounds as compared to the D, you’ll notice the pitch gets lower for each string you tune. The 3rd string is a G. Then another D on the 4th string, and lastly the top string is another G. 

The next banjo tuning method is tuning one string to another.  For this, it’s a good idea to tune the 4th string to a piano or tuning fork so that you can use it as your reference.  Once you have the 4th string in tune, you can turn the 3rd string by putting your finger on the 5th fret of the 4th string to produce a G note. Tune the 3rd string to that G. Then to tune the 2nd string, go to the 4th fret of the 3rd string and tune the 2nd string.  To tune the 1st string, compare it to 2nd string on the 3rd fret – it should be the same notes.  Next, fret the 5th fret of the 1st string. The 5th string should be in tune with the 1st string on the 5th fret.  Careful with this method, it can be tricky. 

For a sure way to get your banjo in tune, go with modern banjo tuner.  Many fit right on the headstock, making it easy to tune because all you need to do is match it to the green light that lights up when you play each note.  It’s also great for anyone playing live because you can do a quick banjo tuning right before you head out on stage.

• Banjo Lesson: Foggy Mountain Breakdown Roll
• Banjo Lesson on Earl Scruggs Solos
• Danny Boy on Banjo
• Talking Banjo with Tony Trischka: Part 1
• Talking Banjo with Tony Trischka: Part 2
• Banjo Meets Mando: Tony Trischka & Mike Marshall

• Dobro Tuning with Andy Hall
• How to Tune a Guitar with Martin Taylor
• Fiddle Tuning with Darol Anger
• Mandolin Tuning with Mike Marshall