It doesn’t take a seasoned guitarist to notice something a bit peculiar about the order of guitar strings, especially when you compare it to instruments like the mandolin. A mandolin, for instance, is logically tuned in perfect fifths (G-D-A-E from lowest to highest). This consistent tuning makes intuitive sense. Even a complete beginner can pick up a mandolin and start strumming chords and making music relatively quickly.
However, the guitar throws a curveball. The first four strings, mirroring the mandolin but in reverse (E-A-D-G), seem orderly enough. But then comes the ‘B’ string. Instead of continuing the perfect fourth interval, it’s tuned a major third away from the ‘G’ string. This is often the point where aspiring guitarists start exploring the fascinating world of alternate guitar tunings as a welcome detour from standard tuning.
The standard guitar strings order, from the lowest pitch (thickest string) to the highest pitch (thinnest string), reads:
E – A – D – G – B – E
This article will delve into the reasons behind this seemingly unconventional tuning, provide expert tips to easily memorize the guitar strings order for both electric and acoustic guitars, and explore the unique advantages the ‘B’ string offers.
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The Historical Roots of Guitar Tuning
To understand the guitar’s unique tuning, we need to take a brief historical journey. The guitar’s ancestors can be traced back to instruments resembling early banjos or even the ancient Egyptian tanbur, dating back 5,000 years. Over centuries, this ancestor evolved through various forms, including lutes and vihuelas (flat-backed lutes), eventually leading to the classical Spanish guitar with gut/nylon strings in 1859.
Alt text: Visual representation of the historical evolution of the guitar, highlighting the change in string count and instrument shape from ancient instruments to the modern guitar.
Throughout this evolution, the number of strings gradually increased from four to five and finally to six. This string count increase directly influenced the development of the current EADGBE guitar strings order.
As the demand for louder guitars grew, innovations emerged. Guitar bodies were enlarged, bracing systems were modified to accommodate stronger steel strings, pickups and amplifiers were developed, and effects pedals were invented. This evolution led to the divergence between acoustic and electric guitars, each catering to different musical styles and needs.
Unraveling the Mystery of the Guitar Strings Order
The question of why guitar strings are tuned in the EADGBE order has been debated and pondered by guitarists worldwide. While there’s no single, universally accepted answer, historical context combined with practical musical considerations points towards a pragmatic origin rooted in musical necessity.
As guitars evolved, necks became longer, fret counts increased, and string numbers grew from four to six. Crucially, the double strings found on lute-like instruments were phased out.
The introduction of the major third interval between the G and B strings (instead of maintaining perfect fourths throughout) significantly reduces the physical strain on a guitarist’s wrist and fingers when playing chords and scales across the extended guitar neck. Without the current guitar strings order, common “Cowboy Chords” would become incredibly challenging, making guitar learning considerably more difficult and potentially leading to hand fatigue and cramps.
Alt text: Illustration demonstrating hand positions for common guitar chords, emphasizing how the standard string order facilitates comfortable chord shapes.
Furthermore, this tuning configuration alleviates certain complex harmonic issues that would arise if early luthiers had insisted on tuning all six strings in perfect fourths. The major third creates a unique balance, offering both playability and harmonic richness.
Mastering the EADGBE Order: Memorization Techniques
Memorizing the guitar strings order (EADGBE) is crucial for every guitarist. The most effective method is using a mnemonic phrase or acronym. Here are some memorable and fun examples:
- Every Average Dude Gets Better Eventually
- Elephants And Donkeys Grow Big Ears
- Eddie Ate Dynamite, Good Bye Eddie
- Eat All Day Get Big Easy
- Eric And Dave’s Guitars Beat Everyone
While these phrases are helpful, remembering the ‘E’ strings at both ends can be slightly confusing, especially when tuning. Here are two additional tips:
- Auditory Approach: Recite the musical note sequence (E, F, G, A, B, C, D, E) and recognize the perfect fourth intervals until you reach the major third between ‘G’ and ‘B’.
- Positioning Cue: Simply remember that the ‘B’ string is positioned towards the higher-pitched end of the string spectrum, nestled before the high ‘E’ string.
It’s also important to understand string numbering. When referring to guitar strings numerically (1st string, 2nd string, etc.), the thinnest string (high E) is the 1st string, and the count ascends to the thickest string (low E).
Therefore, on a standard six-string guitar, the numerical string order is:
- 1st String: E (thinnest, highest pitch)
- 2nd String: B
- 3rd String: G
- 4th String: D
- 5th String: A
- 6th String: E (thickest, lowest pitch)
Beyond Standard Tuning: Exploring Alternatives
While mastering standard EADGBE tuning is fundamental for guitarists, the journey doesn’t end there. Once you’re comfortable with standard tuning, a vast universe of alternate tunings awaits, opening up new musical landscapes.
Whether you’re drawn to the delicate melodies of Joni Mitchell or the powerful riffs of Rage Against the Machine, exploring alternate tunings can significantly expand your sonic palette. You can learn from established tunings like Nashville Tuning, DADGAD tuning, and Open E Tuning, or even experiment and create your own unique tunings.
In conclusion, the modern guitar string order of EADGBE, prevalent in both 6-string and 12-string guitars, evolved due to a blend of ergonomic considerations and musical practicality. Standard tuning serves as the essential foundation, but don’t hesitate to experiment and break the mold. Once you grasp the fundamentals of guitar tuning, you have the freedom to utilize it as a starting point or venture into uncharted sonic territories.
If you’re considering significant tuning changes, remember to use our String Tension Calculator to ensure optimal string tension and consider if a fresh set of guitar strings is needed. We offer a wide selection of high-quality strings, including custom sets tailored to your specific needs.
