Banjo Tunings

The standard 5-string banjo tuning, also called Open G. When strummed open, it produces a G major chord. This is the most common tuning for bluegrass, old-time, and folk banjo playing.

A popular old-time banjo tuning that emphasizes the key of C. Named for having two C strings, it's widely used in clawhammer and frailing styles for a deep, modal sound.

Produces an open D major chord when strummed. Used in old-time and folk music, this tuning works well for songs in D and is sometimes called Calico tuning.

Also known as G Modal or Mountain Minor tuning. Similar to Open G but with the B string raised to C, creating a suspended sound perfect for haunting Appalachian tunes.

Standard Open G with the fourth string dropped from D to C. Makes it easy to play in the key of C while keeping familiar chord shapes from standard tuning.

Matches the top five strings of a guitar in standard tuning. Useful for guitarists transitioning to banjo, allowing them to use familiar chord shapes and patterns.

Produces an open C major chord. Popular in old-time music and provides a bright, ringing quality. Works especially well for songs in the key of C.