Open C (gCGCE) Tuning
Tune your banjo to Open C (gCGCE) — G4, C3, G3, C4, E4
About Open C (gCGCE) Tuning
Open C tuning (G4-C3-G3-C4-E4) produces a bright, ringing C major chord when all strings are strummed open. It combines the low C bass note with a high E on the 1st string, creating a wider, more expansive sound than the other C-based tunings (Double C and Drop C).
Open C is a favorite in old-time music traditions, particularly for tunes that sit squarely in the key of C. The open C major chord provides a constant harmonic foundation, and simple barre shapes at various frets produce other major chords. This makes Open C especially effective for backing up fiddle tunes in C and F.
The tuning requires three changes from standard Open G: the 4th string drops to C, the 2nd string rises to C, and the 1st string rises to E. These changes significantly alter the fretboard, so chord shapes from standard tuning don't transfer. But the reward is a lush, full C major sound that's worth the relearning.
String Notes
Recommended Strings
Standard strings work for Open C, though the 1st string rises to E4 (a whole step above standard D4), which increases its tension. If the 1st string feels tight, consider a slightly lighter gauge for that string. The 4th string drops to C3, which reduces tension. Overall, the tension changes roughly balance out.
How to Tune to Open C (gCGCE)
- 1.Start from Standard Open G (gDGBD). Three strings change.
- 2.Lower the 4th string from D3 to C3 (130.81 Hz). One whole step down.
- 3.Raise the 2nd string from B3 to C4 (261.63 Hz). One half step up.
- 4.Raise the 1st string from D4 to E4 (329.63 Hz). One whole step up.
- 5.The 5th string (G4) and 3rd string (G3) stay the same.
- 6.Strum all strings open — you should hear a clear, bright C major chord. The G drone on the 5th string adds the fifth of the chord on top.
Common Chords in Open C (gCGCE)
C Major (open)
All strings open ring as C major. The foundation of everything you'll play in this tuning.
F Major (barre at 5th fret)
Barre all strings at the 5th fret for F major, the IV chord. Slide this shape anywhere for other major chords.
G Major (barre at 7th fret)
Barre at the 7th fret for G major, the V chord. The I-IV-V progression in C is simple barre movements.
Am
Accessible through fingered shapes on the fretted strings over the open C drone. Adds minor color to C-based tunes.