Bouree I and II
Required String Notes:CGCGCF
Tune to Custom Tuning (CGCGCF)Tune to Custom Tuning (CGCGCF)
Play each string and match the pitch using your microphone. Targets are set to this song’s exact tuning (CGCGCF).
Custom Tuning (CGCGCF)
±0
C
Target: 65.4 Hz
-50WAITING+50
Waiting for sound
C65
G98
C131
G196
C262
F349
How to Tune from Standard to Custom Tuning (CGCGCF)
Start in standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E) and change 5 of 6 strings to play “Bouree I and II”:
| String | Standard | Target | What to do |
|---|---|---|---|
| String 6 | E2 | C2 | Tune down 4 semitones |
| String 5 | A2 | G2 | Tune down a whole step |
| String 4 | D3 | C3 | Tune down a whole step |
| String 3 | G3 | G3 | Leave as is |
| String 2 | B3 | C4 | Tune up a half step |
| String 1 | E4 | F4 | Tune up a half step |
Recommended string gauge: .011–.054. The bass end is slackened noticeably; a slightly heavier set keeps it tight without a full setup change.Ernie Ball Beefy Slinky (.011–.054) · affiliate link
Song Overview & Tuning Breakdown
"Bouree I and II" by John Renbourn is played in Custom Tuning (CGCGCF) (CGCGCF). Starting from standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E), you retune 5 of 6 strings: string 6 down to C, string 5 down to G, string 4 down to C, string 2 up to C, string 1 up to F. Some strings go down and others go up, so the tension shifts across the neck. 1270 other songs in our catalog use Custom Tuning (CGCGCF).
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Tunings Close to Custom Tuning (CGCGCF)
Already tuned to CGCGCF? These tunings are just one small change away.
Open C Tuning34 songs
C - G - C - G - C - EOnly string 1 differs: E instead of F.CGCGCD Tuning (Csus2 Modal)12 songs
C - G - C - G - C - DOnly string 1 differs: D instead of F.Custom Tuning (CGCGCC)10 songs
CGCGCCOnly string 1 differs: C instead of F.Custom Tuning (CGCGCD#)4 songs
CGCGCD#Only string 1 differs: D# instead of F.John Renbourn’s Guitar Tunings
John Renbourn plays 1 of 13 songs in our catalog in Custom Tuning (CGCGCF). Most-used tunings:
- Custom Tuning (CGCGCF)CGCGCF1 song
Gear for Custom Tuning (CGCGCF)
Strings and tools that make playing "Bouree I and II" in Custom Tuning (CGCGCF) easier.
Ernie Ball Beefy Slinky (.011–.054)
Recommended gauge .011–.054. The bass end is slackened noticeably; a slightly heavier set keeps it tight without a full setup change.
D'Addario Universal Micro Headstock Tuner
A headstock tuner makes switching in and out of this tuning quick, even on stage or without a mic.
D'Addario Pro-Winder (winder + cutter)
Retuning 5 strings means a lot of turning — a winder speeds it up and trims new strings too.
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“Bouree I and II” Tuning FAQ
What tuning is "Bouree I and II" by John Renbourn in?
"Bouree I and II" is played in Custom Tuning (CGCGCF): CGCGCF, from the lowest to the highest string.
How do I tune my guitar to play "Bouree I and II"?
Start from standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E). String 6: tune down 4 semitones (E2 → C2). String 5: tune down a whole step (A2 → G2). String 4: tune down a whole step (D3 → C3). String 2: tune up a half step (B3 → C4). String 1: tune up a half step (E4 → F4). Leave the other strings as they are.
What string gauge should I use for Custom Tuning (CGCGCF)?
Use a .011–.054 set. The bass end is slackened noticeably; a slightly heavier set keeps it tight without a full setup change.
More Songs by John Renbourn
Explore other guitar tunings recorded by John Renbourn:
Other Songs in Custom Tuning (CGCGCF)
Once tuned to CGCGCF, try playing these tracks next: