How to Remember Standard Guitar Tuning

Getting the hang of standard guitar tuning is a rite of passage for any guitarist, especially if you're diving into the world of metal. It's not just about hitting the right notes; it's about creating the sonic foundation for those crushing riffs and soaring solos that define the genre. In this article, we'll explore various ways to remember standard tuning so you can focus more on your playing and less on getting your guitar in tune. Whether you're a newbie still fumbling with the tuning pegs or a seasoned player looking to solidify your understanding, there's something here for you.

Why Standard Tuning Matters

Standard tuning—EADGBE from the thickest to the thinnest string—isn't just a random set of notes. It's a carefully crafted alignment that balances ease of play with musical versatility. For metal guitarists, understanding and remembering standard tuning is essential because it serves as a jumping-off point for many alternate tunings that the genre often employs, like Drop D or D Standard. Mastering standard tuning first makes these variations easier to comprehend and execute.

Think of standard tuning as the default setting. It's the framework that allows you to transition smoothly between genres, styles, and techniques. Once you've got it down, you can easily manipulate your tuning to suit specific songs or styles without losing the core understanding of your instrument.

Acronyms to the Rescue

One of the easiest ways to remember standard guitar tuning is through acronyms. They transform a seemingly random sequence of letters into a memorable phrase. Here’s a classic: "Every Adult Dog Growls, Barks, Eats." Each word represents a string, starting from the sixth string (E) and moving to the first (E again).

Here are a few more you might find amusing or helpful:

• Elephants And Donkeys Grow Big Ears
• Eddie Ate Dynamite, Good Bye Eddie
• Every Avid Dog Grows Big Ears

Feel free to come up with your own acronym that resonates with you. The sillier, the better—it’ll stick in your head that way!

Understanding the Musical Structure

Sometimes, understanding the logic behind something makes it easier to remember. The intervals between the strings in standard tuning are mostly fourths, except between the G and B strings, which is a major third. This setup facilitates the playing of common chord shapes and scales across the fretboard.

If you think of each string as a stepping stone on a musical staircase, the tuning begins to make more sense. For example, the step from E to A (a fourth) is a common interval in music. Understanding these relationships can help reinforce the tuning in your mind, especially if you're someone who thinks in terms of theory.

Practice Makes Perfect

There's no substitute for good ol' practice. Regularly tuning your guitar by ear can help cement standard tuning in your memory. Start by using a reference note for the low E string—this could be a piano, a tuning fork, or even a digital tuner app. Once you have the E string in tune, use the traditional fifth-fret method to tune the rest of the strings:

• 5th fret on the E string matches the open A string
• 5th fret on the A string matches the open D string
• 5th fret on the D string matches the open G string
• 4th fret on the G string matches the open B string
• 5th fret on the B string matches the open high E string

Practicing this method not only helps you remember the tuning but also improves your ear training, a crucial skill for any musician.

Using Mnemonics and Visualization

Mnemonics and visualization can be powerful tools for memory retention. Imagine each string as a part of a story or visual sequence. For example, envision an elephant (E) leading a group of animals (A) to a door (D), and so on. The more vivid and bizarre the imagery, the better it will stick.

Another technique is to visualize the fretboard as a roadmap. Picture the notes as landmarks on a journey. As you move along the strings, each note tells a part of the story. This can help transform an abstract concept into something tangible and memorable.

Technology: Your Modern-Day Tuning Aid

In today's age, technology is your friend. Numerous apps and online tools can assist you in not only tuning your guitar but also remembering the tuning itself. Apps often provide visual aids, audio samples, and even games that make learning standard tuning more engaging and less of a chore.

That said, be cautious not to become overly reliant on technology. The goal is to internalize the tuning so that it becomes second nature. Use these tools as supplementary aids rather than crutches.

We also offer a custom metronome at Riffhard that can help you practice tuning with rhythm. It's a great way to incorporate your tuning exercises into your practice routine, making the process more holistic and integrated.

The Role of Ear Training

Developing your ear is arguably one of the most valuable skills you can cultivate as a musician. Ear training allows you to identify pitches and intervals, making it easier to tune your guitar without needing external aids. Start by practicing simple intervals and gradually work your way up to more complex exercises.

Consider integrating singing into your practice. Sing the notes as you tune each string. This not only reinforces the tuning but also strengthens your ability to identify pitches vocally, which can be a surprisingly effective way to internalize musical information.

Consistency is Key

Consistency is your best friend when it comes to memorization. Make tuning your guitar a daily habit, even if you don't plan to play. The repetitive act of tuning will reinforce the standard tuning sequence in your mind over time.

Start your practice sessions by tuning your guitar, and end them the same way. This bookends your practice with a grounding exercise, keeping your mind focused and your instrument in optimal playing condition.

At Riffhard, our bi-weekly lesson plans often incorporate tuning exercises as part of the curriculum, ensuring that our students are always in tune—both literally and figuratively.

Learning Through Song

Sometimes, the best way to learn is through practical application. Pick a few songs you enjoy that use standard tuning and learn to play them. This not only reinforces the tuning but also gives you a sense of accomplishment as you master a piece of music.

As you play, take note of how the tuning affects the chord shapes and scales you use. This contextual learning can make the tuning feel more intuitive and less like a rote memorization task.

Final Thoughts

Remembering standard guitar tuning is more about consistent practice and familiarity than anything else. By using acronyms, practicing ear training, and even integrating technology, you can make the process easier and more enjoyable. At Riffhard, we offer a range of resources designed to help you refine your skills, all taught by some of the best metal guitarists in the world. Happy tuning!