7 Ways to Remember the Standard Order of Guitar Strings in Simple English
If you are like many budding guitarists, perfecting the placement and tuning of your strings can be quite a challenge. The knowledge of the standard order of guitar strings is essential for tuning the guitar correctly, changing strings, and mastering the artistry of playing. This article will simplify this process for you, offering an easy-to-follow guide to the order of guitar strings.
Understanding the Numbers and Letters of Guitar Strings
In general, a standard guitar has six strings. These strings are identified both by letters representing musical notes and numbers. The string with the highest pitch is the 1st string and is also designated an “E”. It’s the one closest to the floor when you hold a guitar. The strings then progress from 2nd to 6th, moving upward in terms of pitch, with the 6th string nicknamed “Low E” string due to its low pitch. The strings from 1st to 6th correspond with note names E, B, G, D, A, and E, respectively.
Visualizing the Order of Guitar Strings
A great technique to help remember string order is by using a visual aid. Think of your guitar as a diagram from left to right with number 1 being the bottom string (High E) and number 6 being the top string (Low E). The ascending order goes like this: E-B-G-D-A-E.
Why ‘EADGBE’?
The standard tuning of EADGBE was established as the industry standard by luthiers and musicians due to its versatility in accommodating a range of chords and scales:
- The ‘E’ or 1st string allows musicians to reach high notes in solos and melodies
- The ‘A’ or 5th string and the 4th ‘D’ string are perfect for creating rich chord harmonies
- The middle ‘G’ string (3rd) offers unique tonal qualities for soloing and chord creation
- The 2nd ‘B’ string broadens the range of notes and harmonies accessible on the fretboard
- The Low ‘E’ or 6th string allows for deep bass notes underpinning rhythm and melody
Acronyms to Remember Guitar String Notes
People often use acronyms or mnemonic devices to memorize the order of guitar strings. For example, “Every Bad Guy Deserves An Egg” represents the string order from the 1st to the 6th string, with each word’s initial representing a string note: E, B, G, D, A, E.
How to Tune to Standard Guitar String Order
Once you have memorized the order of guitar strings, you’ll need to know how to tune them. A tuner can be of great assistance in this process. Start from the 6th string, turning its tuning peg until it sounds out a low “E” note. Follow this process for each string moving down, tuning the 5th string to A, the 4th to D, and so on, until your 1st string rings out a high E.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Order of Guitar Strings
Why is the guitar strung in the order of EADGBE?
This specific ordering is due to historical traditions and the need for versatile arrangements of chords and scales on the guitar.
Is the order of guitar strings universal?
While EADGBE is the most common standard, different genres and styles of music may require alternate tunings.
Where can I find the number of each string?
String numbers are typically found on string-packaging and tuning equipment.
Do all guitars have the same string order?
Most traditional six-string guitars follow the EADGBE order, whether acoustic or electric. However, guitars like Bass or seven-string guitars have a different string order.
How do I change the order of strings on my guitar?
It’s usually best to maintain the string order. Changing the order could lead to potential damage to the guitar and difficulty in playing.
Conclusion
Knowing the order of guitar strings is a fundamental aspect of guitar playing. From tuning to strumming to comprehending chord diagrams, this understanding can shape your guitar journey. The key to retaining this information lies in practice, repetition, and consistent playing.
Continue to explore the world of guitar playing, and before you know it, the order of guitar strings will become second nature!
For further guidance on guitar tuning and best practices, check out www.tune-up.com.