Roslyn
Required String Notes:EBDF#DF#
Tune to Custom Tuning (EBDF#DF#)Tune to Custom Tuning (EBDF#DF#)
Play each string and match the pitch using your microphone. Targets are set to this song’s exact tuning (EBDF#DF#).
Custom Tuning (EBDF#DF#)
±0
E
Target: 82.4 Hz
-50WAITING+50
Waiting for sound
E82
B123
D147
F#185
D294
F#370
How to Tune from Standard to Custom Tuning (EBDF#DF#)
Start in standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E) and change 4 of 6 strings to play “Roslyn”:
| String | Standard | Target | What to do |
|---|---|---|---|
| String 6 | E2 | E2 | Leave as is |
| String 5 | A2 | B2 | Tune up a whole step |
| String 4 | D3 | D3 | Leave as is |
| String 3 | G3 | F#3 | Tune down a half step |
| String 2 | B3 | D4 | Tune up 3 semitones |
| String 1 | E4 | F#4 | Tune up a whole step |
Recommended string gauge: .009–.042. Some strings are tuned well above standard, so lighter strings keep tension and neck stress in check.Ernie Ball Super Slinky (.009–.042) · affiliate link
Song Overview & Tuning Breakdown
"Roslyn" by Bon Iver & St. Vincent is played in Custom Tuning (EBDF#DF#) (EBDF#DF#). Starting from standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E), you retune 4 of 6 strings: string 5 up to B, string 3 down to F#, string 2 up to D, 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 (EBDF#DF#).
Looking for tabs or chords?Search Ultimate Guitar
Gear for Custom Tuning (EBDF#DF#)
Strings and tools that make playing "Roslyn" in Custom Tuning (EBDF#DF#) easier.
Ernie Ball Super Slinky (.009–.042)
Recommended gauge .009–.042. Some strings are tuned well above standard, so lighter strings keep tension and neck stress in check.
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 4 strings means a lot of turning — a winder speeds it up and trims new strings too.
Affiliate links: we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
“Roslyn” Tuning FAQ
What tuning is "Roslyn" by Bon Iver & St. Vincent in?
"Roslyn" is played in Custom Tuning (EBDF#DF#): EBDF#DF#, from the lowest to the highest string.
How do I tune my guitar to play "Roslyn"?
Start from standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E). String 5: tune up a whole step (A2 → B2). String 3: tune down a half step (G3 → F#3). String 2: tune up 3 semitones (B3 → D4). String 1: tune up a whole step (E4 → F#4). Leave the other strings as they are.
What string gauge should I use for Custom Tuning (EBDF#DF#)?
Use a .009–.042 set. Some strings are tuned well above standard, so lighter strings keep tension and neck stress in check.
Other Songs in Custom Tuning (EBDF#DF#)
Once tuned to EBDF#DF#, try playing these tracks next: