Standard (GCEA) Tuning
Tune your ukulele to Standard (GCEA) — G4, C4, E4, A4
About Standard (GCEA) Tuning
Standard GCEA tuning is the universal default for soprano, concert, and tenor ukuleles. The strings are tuned G4-C4-E4-A4, with the G string tuned higher than the C and E strings — a characteristic called re-entrant tuning. This high G gives the ukulele its instantly recognizable bright, jangly sound that sets it apart from other string instruments.
GCEA tuning became the standard in Hawaii during the early 20th century and spread worldwide as the ukulele gained popularity. Before GCEA, the older ADF#B (D tuning) was more common, but GCEA won out because it places the key of C front and center — arguably the most beginner-friendly key in music. Virtually all modern ukulele songbooks, tabs, and tutorials assume GCEA tuning.
The re-entrant G4 string means the ukulele doesn't have a true bass note on top. Instead of a low-to-high string arrangement, you get a unique voicing where the melody can move across all four strings equally. This is why strummed ukulele chords sound so lively and why simple strumming patterns create a full, balanced sound.
String Notes
Recommended Strings
Standard nylon or Nylgut strings are the most popular choice for GCEA tuning. Aquila New Nylgut strings are the industry standard — they come pre-installed on most ukuleles and produce a warm, punchy tone. Fluorocarbon strings (like Worth or Living Water) offer a brighter, more projecting sound with better intonation. For beginners, stick with whatever came on your ukulele until you develop a preference.
How to Tune to Standard (GCEA)
- 1.Start with the C string (3rd string, closest to your face when holding the ukulele). Use a tuner to bring it to C4 (261.63 Hz) — this is your reference pitch.
- 2.Tune the E string (2nd string) to E4. You can verify by fretting the C string at the 4th fret — it should match the open E string.
- 3.Tune the G string (4th string, closest to the ceiling) to G4. Remember, this is a HIGH G — it should sound higher than the C string, not lower.
- 4.Tune the A string (1st string, closest to the floor) to A4 (440 Hz). Verify by fretting the E string at the 5th fret — it should match the open A string.
- 5.Strum all four strings open. You should hear a bright, happy Am7 chord. If anything sounds off, retune that string and check again.
Common Chords in Standard (GCEA)
C Major
Press the 1st string at the 3rd fret. One of the easiest and most-used ukulele chords — just one finger.
Am
Press the 3rd string at the 2nd fret. Another one-finger chord. C and Am together form the basis of hundreds of songs.
F Major
Press the 2nd string at the 1st fret and the 4th string at the 2nd fret. A staple two-finger chord.
G Major
Press the 1st string at the 2nd fret, 2nd string at the 3rd fret, and 3rd string at the 2nd fret. The most common three-finger chord for beginners.