How to Tune to Open C Major (CGCEGC)
A true open C major chord tuning (C-G-C-E-G-C) that rings out a full, shimmering C triad across all six open strings. Unlike the wider Open C (C-G-C-G-C-E), this voicing stacks the major third (E) in the middle for a sweeter, more chordal sound. Joni Mitchell used it on "Amelia" and Elliott Smith built several of his most intimate fingerpicked songs around it.
| String | Note | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| String 6 | C2 | 65.41 Hz |
| String 5 | G2 | 98.00 Hz |
| String 4 | C3 | 130.81 Hz |
| String 3 | E3 | 164.81 Hz |
| String 2 | G3 | 196.00 Hz |
| String 1 | C4 | 261.63 Hz |
Fun Fact
Joni Mitchell famously played in over 50 different tunings and grouped them by their sound rather than their notes. She described open-major tunings like this one as producing "chords of inquiry" — lush, unresolved voicings that let a single fretting finger create rich, questioning harmonies impossible in standard tuning.
String Tension & Setup Tips
Recommended Gauge:Standard light gauges (.011-.052) work well since only the low E drops to C and the high strings stay near pitch. For a clearer low C, a slightly heavier 6th string (.052-.054) helps the bass note ring.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Open C Major (CGCEGC) tuning?
It is an open tuning where the six strings form a C major chord: C-G-C-E-G-C. Strumming all open strings sounds a full C major. It differs from the more common Open C (C-G-C-G-C-E) by placing the major third E on the third string, giving a warmer, more piano-like voicing.
How do I tune to CGCEGC from standard?
From standard: drop the low E two whole steps to C, drop the A a whole step to G, drop the D a whole step to C, lower the G down to E (a minor third), lower the B down to G, and drop the high E two whole steps to C. Use the interactive tuner above to match each string exactly.
What songs use CGCEGC tuning?
Joni Mitchell's "Amelia," and several Elliott Smith songs including "Ballad of Big Nothing" use this open C major voicing. It is also popular with modern fingerstyle and folk players for its lush, resonant open chords.
What are the frequencies for CGCEGC?
C2 = 65.41 Hz, G2 = 98.00 Hz, C3 = 130.81 Hz, E3 = 164.81 Hz, G3 = 196.00 Hz, C4 = 261.63 Hz.