Open D (aDAF#D) Tuning
Tune your banjo to Open D (aDAF#D) — A4, D3, A3, F#3, D4
About Open D (aDAF#D) Tuning
Open D tuning (A4-D3-A3-F#3-D4) produces a D major chord when all strings are strummed open. The 5th string is raised from G4 to A4, and the inner strings are rearranged to spell out D major. This tuning is a favorite in old-time and folk banjo traditions, particularly for songs in the key of D.
Also called Calico tuning in some Appalachian traditions, Open D is essential for playing with fiddle tunes in D major. Since the fiddle's open strings favor the keys of G, D, and A, banjo players developed tunings to match. Open D locks the banjo into the key of D, making it the perfect accompaniment for D-major fiddle tunes.
The raised 5th string (A4) changes the drone character significantly. Instead of the G drone in standard tuning, the high A provides a fifth-degree drone that creates a brighter, more driving sound when combined with the D root notes.
String Notes
Recommended Strings
Standard banjo strings work for Open D, though the 5th string rises from G4 to A4 which increases its tension. If the 5th string feels too tight, try a slightly lighter gauge for it. The other strings shift minimally or remain close to their standard-tuning pitches.
How to Tune to Open D (aDAF#D)
- 1.Start from Standard Open G (gDGBD). Several strings need to change.
- 2.Raise the 5th string from G4 to A4 (440 Hz). Be careful — raise pitch gradually to avoid breaking the string.
- 3.The 4th string stays at D3 — no change needed.
- 4.Lower the 3rd string from G3 to F#3 (185 Hz). Drop it a half step.
- 5.Raise the 2nd string from B3 to A3. Wait — actually lower it. A3 is 220 Hz. The 2nd string goes from B3 down to A3.
- 6.The 1st string stays at D4. Strum all open strings — you should hear a clear D major chord.
Common Chords in Open D (aDAF#D)
D Major (open)
All strings open produce D major. The foundation of every tune played in this tuning.
G Major
Bar across the appropriate fret to create G major — the IV chord in D. Essential for most folk progressions.
A Major
The V chord. Simple barre shapes make A major accessible for quick chord changes.
Bm
The relative minor. Adds emotional depth to D-based tunes.