G Suspended 4 Guitar Tuning
G Suspended 4 sets the six strings from low to high to D G D G C D. Its earthy, suspended and droning voice works especially well for Gsus4 textures, folk accompaniment and modal melody.
Do this first
No theory test. No perfect technique required. Follow these three steps and start making music.
Tap each string to hear it
What changes in G Suspended 4
The open strings contain G, C and D, forming Gsus4 with D in the bass.
Make the tuning sound intentional
Alternate B, B-flat and C against the open G and D strings to hear three different colours.
Shape tip: Resolve C to B for major or to B-flat for minor while keeping G and D drones.
Retune to D G D G C D safely
Most changed strings move down, so standard or medium strings usually work.
Change one string at a time, approach the target pitch gradually and recheck every string after the neck settles. Stop if a string feels unusually tight, the bridge lifts or the instrument reacts unpredictably.
Turn the open strings into music
Quick answers before you play
What are the notes in G Suspended 4 Guitar Tuning?
From the sixth string to the first string, tune to D G D G C D. Use the six playable reference notes above and recheck them after the neck settles.
Is G Suspended 4 Guitar Tuning safe for my guitar?
Most changed strings move down, so standard or medium strings usually work. Stop if a string feels unusually tight, the bridge moves or the guitar becomes difficult to intonate.
Can I use normal chord shapes in G Suspended 4 Guitar Tuning?
Some shapes may still work, but a modal tuning changes at least part of the fretboard. Start with the open strings, simple drones and the shape guidance on this page.
Why do the strings go out of tune again after retuning?
Changing one string changes the total tension on the neck. Tune all six strings, wait briefly and repeat the process until every reference pitch remains stable.