How to Tune from Standard to C6 Tuning (CACGCE)
Start in standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E) and change 3 of 6 strings to play “Bron Yr Aur”:
| String | Standard | Target | What to do |
|---|---|---|---|
| String 6 | E2 | C2 | Tune down 4 semitones |
| String 5 | A2 | A2 | Leave as is |
| 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 | E4 | Leave as is |
Song Overview & Tuning Breakdown
"Bron Yr Aur" by Led Zeppelin is played in C6 Tuning (CACGCE) (C - A - C - G - C - E). Starting from standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E), you retune 3 of 6 strings: string 6 down to C, string 4 down to C, string 2 up to C. Some strings go down and others go up, so the tension shifts across the neck. Led Zeppelin uses this same tuning on 2 other songs in our catalog, so you can stay tuned and keep playing.
Tunings Close to C6 Tuning (CACGCE)
Already tuned to C - A - C - G - C - E? These tunings are just one small change away.
Led Zeppelin’s Guitar Tunings
Led Zeppelin plays 3 of 22 songs in our catalog in C6 Tuning (CACGCE). Most-used tunings:
- C6 Tuning (CACGCE)C - A - C - G - C - E3 songs
Gear for C6 Tuning (CACGCE)
Strings and tools that make playing "Bron Yr Aur" in C6 Tuning (CACGCE) 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 3 strings means a lot of turning — a winder speeds it up and trims new strings too.
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“Bron Yr Aur” Tuning FAQ
What tuning is "Bron Yr Aur" by Led Zeppelin in?
"Bron Yr Aur" is played in C6 Tuning (CACGCE): C - A - C - G - C - E, from the lowest to the highest string.
How do I tune my guitar to play "Bron Yr Aur"?
Start from standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E). String 6: tune down 4 semitones (E2 → C2). String 4: tune down a whole step (D3 → C3). String 2: tune up a half step (B3 → C4). Leave the other strings as they are.
What string gauge should I use for C6 Tuning (CACGCE)?
Use a .011–.054 set. The bass end is slackened noticeably; a slightly heavier set keeps it tight without a full setup change.
Which other Led Zeppelin songs use this tuning?
"Bron-Yr-Aur", "Friends" — all in C - A - C - G - C - E, so you can play them without retuning.
More Songs by Led Zeppelin
Explore other guitar tunings recorded by Led Zeppelin:
Other Songs in C6 Tuning (CACGCE)
Once tuned to C - A - C - G - C - E, try playing these tracks next: