Tuning the Violin
We tune because we care!
It is absolutely essential to tune your violin every time you play it. Playing in tune is hard enough on the violin - don't make it impossible by playing with out-of-tune strings!
​
It might seem daunting at first, but never fear! With a little practice you'll be able to tune quickly and confidently.
​
First, remember the basics:
​
-
Tightening the string will raise the pitch higher.
-
Loosening the string will lower the pitch deeper.
Tune to these pitches
Match the strings to these notes
From lowest to highest, violin string pitches are G, D, A, E.
​
Using a digital tuner? Make sure your pitches match the ones in this chart.
It works best to tune the strings in the following order: A, D, G, then E.
If major adjustments are made, double check the other strings afterward.
Start with the Fine Tuners
Fine tuners are the little twisty screws on the tailpiece
Most tuning adjustments can be made with the fine tuners.
​
Remember the basics: Righty tighty, lefty loosey!
Right = clockwise = higher pitch
Left = counterclockwise = lower pitch
​
Some violins don't have fine tuners, or only have one on the E string. For those violins, you'll have to tune with the pegs.
Tuning pegs
A little harder to use, but necessary for big adjustments
Major adjustments can be made with the tuning pegs.
​
Use caution!
Over tightening can cause strings to break.
Over loosening can lead to a string coming unwound.
