![]() Once you’ve adjusted the bridge so that all strings play in tune, you’re all set. Rather, gently lift it (pulling the strings with it) and replace it in the new position, working in small increments. To move the bridge, do not drag it against the skin of the banjo head. If the fretted note is sharp, it means that the bridge is too close to the neck, and if the note is flat, the bridge has moved to close to the tailpiece. Start by playing an open string, then fretting it at the 12th fret, which should produce the same pitch, just an octave higher. You’ll need an electronic tuner to properly check your intonation. If the bridge of your banjo moves during tuning, it can cause your intonation to be off, causing fretted notes to go sharp or flat. Intonation refers to bridge placement, and the relationship between harmonics (open strings) and fretted notes. Once that’s done, you’re ready for the final step - checking your intonation. ![]() Repeat this process several times, retuning each string immediately after each stretching. After you’ve brought the strings gradually up to pitch, stretch each string by slipping your index finger underneath and tugging gently upward. Start by tuning the 4th string, then the 2nd, 3rd, 1st, and finally the 5th string. This is so that the tension on the banjo is evenly dispersed across the fretboard, bridge, and nut. The trick here is to use a cross-string tuning method, similar to the way that you would use a star pattern to change loosen and tighten lug nuts when changing a tire. There’s nothing worse than popping a brand new string, so you’ll want to bring them up to pitch gradually. Now let’s discuss a few details of how to ensure that your banjo tuning is accurate and doesn’t slip or produce false notes. Finally, play the 1st string at the 5th fret, which the 5th string (high G) should match. Fret the B string at the 3rd fret, which should be matched by the sound of the open 1st string. ![]() The open B string should also sound the same. Make sure that the G string is the same pitch. Let’s start by using standard banjo tuning: G-D-G-B-D. This is necessary because banjos have “floating bridges,” meaning that the bridge can move, thereby throwing off the intonation. Pro tip: Make sure to take a pencil and lightly mark the position of the bridge before you begin changing strings. If you watch the screen of the electronic tuner while doing so, you’ll notice that the arrow will move to the center of the meter, changing from red to green when you’re in tune. It’s recommended that you start from at least ½ step below the desired pitch on each string, slowly turning the tuning peg until you reach concert pitch. These can be purchased at most music stores for as little as $20, are easily portable and will yield accurate tuning results. When it comes to banjo tuning, it’s best to keep things simple by purchasing an electronic tuner. Follow these steps and you’ll be tuning like a pro in no time! Up your banjo game by joining Tony Trischka's Banjo School on ArtistWorks, learn more here. Today we’re going to learn two methods for producing quick and accurate banjo tunings.
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