How to Tune to Orkney (CGDGCD)
Orkney tuning (C-G-D-G-C-D) is a suspended, droning folk tuning popularised by Scottish players such as Brian McNeill. Its stacked fifths and sus4 colour make simple shapes ring into big, open Celtic chords, perfect for accompaniment and modal melody work.
Start in standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E) and change 4 of 6 strings:
| 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 | D3 | Leave as is |
| String 3 | G3 | G3 | Leave as is |
| String 2 | B3 | C4 | Tune up a half step |
| String 1 | E4 | D4 | Tune down a whole step |
String Tension & Setup Tips
Recommended Gauge:The low E drops to C, the A to G, the B up to C and the high E to D. A heavier low string keeps the C tight; overall tension is close to standard.
Gear for Orkney (CGDGCD)
Tools that make tuning to C - G - D - G - C - D 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 4 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 Orkney tuning?
From standard tuning (EADGBE), retune each string low to high: 6th E→C, 5th A→G, 4th D (unchanged), 3rd G (unchanged), 2nd B→C, 1st E→D. Match each string to its exact Hz using the interactive tuner above.
What is Orkney tuning used for?
It is a Scottish/Celtic folk tuning that produces droning, suspended open chords. Fiddle-turned-guitarist Brian McNeill helped popularise it for accompaniment and modal tunes.