Getting the notes of your 6 string ukulele to sound right is the most direct path to making the instrument truly sing. While the standard ukulele has four strings, the addition of two lower courses on a 6 string model expands the range and opens up new musical possibilities, but it also requires careful attention to tuning. Because the extra strings replicate courses found on a guitar, the instrument can be more sensitive to temperature and humidity, making regular tuning a necessary habit for any player.
The Standard Tuning for 6 String Ukuleles
The tuning for a 6 string ukulele follows a specific pattern that mirrors the top four strings of a standard guitar, but pitched higher and adapted for the ukulele’s scale length. The correct order from the lowest pitched string to the highest is G, C, E, A, C, E. You will notice that the G string is tuned to a higher octave than you might find on a guitar, which is a defining characteristic of the soprano ukulele sound. This configuration allows the instrument to produce a bright, cheerful tone while still providing the foundational bass notes needed for rhythm.
Tools You Need for Accurate Tuning
Relying solely on your ear to tune a 6 string ukulele is possible, but using the right tools ensures precision and saves time. A clip-on chromatic tuner is highly recommended because it detects the pitch of the string directly from the vibration of the instrument, making it reliable even in noisy environments. Smartphone apps are a convenient and affordable alternative, utilizing the microphone to analyze the frequency. For players who prefer a more traditional approach, a high-quality tuning fork or an online reference tone can provide the standard pitch for the A note, which serves as the anchor for the rest of the instrument.
Step-by-Step Tuning Process
To tune your instrument effectively, you should tune the strings in a specific sequence to maintain consistent tension on the neck. Start by turning the machine heads to loosen all the strings slightly, then retighten them to a pitch close to the target note. Follow this order:
Tune the low G string to the reference pitch.
Tune the C string to match the low G.
Tune the E string to the C.
Tune the A string to the E.
Tune the high C string to match the low C.
Tune the high E string to match the low E.
This method ensures that the neck remains stable and the intervals between the strings are correct.
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
Ukulele strings are known for stretching significantly when they are new, which leads to frequent slipping out of tune. If you find that your tuning slips downward as you play, you need to stretch the string gently by pulling it up and away from the fretboard several times, then retune. Another common issue is friction at the nut or bridge, which causes the string to stick and snap back out of tune. Applying a small amount of graphite from a pencil to the slots can resolve this friction and allow the string to move freely.
Maintenance for Stable Tuning
The environment around your instrument plays a critical role in its tuning stability. Wood is a hygroscopic material, meaning it absorbs and releases moisture based on the humidity of the air. When the air is dry, the wood shrinks, causing the strings to loosen. Conversely, high humidity causes the wood to swell, tightening the strings and raising the pitch. To combat this, store your ukulele in a case with a humidity control pack and avoid leaving it in a cold car or near a heating vent. Keeping the instrument at a consistent room temperature is the best way to ensure it stays in tune.
