How to Tune to Major Thirds (EG#CEG#C)
Major-thirds tuning spaces every string a major third apart (E-G#-C-E-G#-C), so the octave repeats every three strings. Championed by jazz guitarist Ralph Patt, it makes augmented symmetry, close-voiced chords and fingering patterns identical all over the neck.
Start in standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E) and change 5 of 6 strings:
| String | Standard | Target | What to do |
|---|---|---|---|
| String 6 | E2 | E2 | Leave as is |
| String 5 | A2 | G#2 | Tune down a half step |
| String 4 | D3 | C3 | Tune down a whole step |
| String 3 | G3 | E3 | Tune down 3 semitones |
| String 2 | B3 | G#3 | Tune down 3 semitones |
| String 1 | E4 | C4 | Tune down 4 semitones |
String Tension & Setup Tips
Recommended Gauge:The B string tunes up to C and several inner strings shift; because the pattern is compact, the top strings sit near standard tension. Check tunings carefully as the intervals differ from standard.
Gear for Major Thirds (EG#CEG#C)
Tools that make tuning to E - G# - C - E - G# - C easier.
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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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I tune to major-thirds tuning?
From standard tuning (EADGBE), retune each string low to high: 6th E (unchanged), 5th A→G#, 4th D→C, 3rd G→E, 2nd B→G#, 1st E→C. Match each string to its exact Hz using the interactive tuner above.
Why use major-thirds tuning?
With every string a major third apart, chord and scale shapes are identical across the fretboard and four-note chords fall under the hand easily. Ralph Patt developed it for jazz voicings.