Nashville High-Strung Guitar Tuning
Nashville High-Strung sets the six strings from low to high to E A D G B E. Its bright, chiming and twelve-string-like voice works especially well for double-tracked acoustic parts, pop sparkle and country arrangements.
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 Nashville High-Strung
The lower four strings are replaced by octave-up strings, creating a re-entrant layout while the B and high E remain at normal pitch.
Make the tuning sound intentional
Record a simple standard-tuned rhythm part, then layer the same chords in Nashville tuning with a lighter attack.
Shape tip: Use ordinary chord shapes, but keep the strumming light and let the octave strings add shimmer rather than bass weight.
Retune to E A D G B E safely
Use a dedicated Nashville or high-strung set; never tune ordinary bass strings up an octave.
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 Nashville High-Strung Guitar Tuning?
From the sixth string to the first string, tune to E A D G B E. Use the six playable reference notes above and recheck them after the neck settles.
Is Nashville High-Strung Guitar Tuning safe for my guitar?
Use a dedicated Nashville or high-strung set; never tune ordinary bass strings up an octave. Stop if a string feels unusually tight, the bridge moves or the guitar becomes difficult to intonate.
Can I use normal chord shapes in Nashville High-Strung Guitar Tuning?
Some shapes may still work, but a re-entrant 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.