Cross G Violin Tuning

Cross G tuning is G D G D, from string 4 to string 1. Tune each string with the online tuner below, or tap a string on the headstock to hear its note.

  • Free, no sign-up
  • 4 strings
  • Lowest note G3
  • Mic stays on your device
Cross G A4 440 Hz

Press Start tuning, then play a string

0/4 tuned

Cross G notes

A4 = 440 Hz
String Note Frequency
4 G3 196.00 Hz
3 D4 293.66 Hz
2 G4 392.00 Hz
1 D5 587.33 Hz

About Cross G tuning

An old-time fiddle tuning that makes the open strings ring in G.

  • Also called GDGD.
  • Open strings: G power chord (G5).
  • Range: G3 (196.00 Hz) to D5 (587.33 Hz).

Intervals between strings

  • G → D perfect fifth
  • D → G perfect fourth
  • G → D perfect fifth

How to tune from Standard to Cross G

2 of the 4 strings change. Work through the table one string at a time.

String Standard Cross G Change
4 G3 G3 No change
3 D4 D4 No change
2 A4 G4 Lower a whole step
1 E5 D5 Lower a whole step

How to tune your violin to Cross G

  1. Start the tuner – Cross G Violin Tuning

    Start the tuner

    Press Start tuning and allow microphone access. The tuner is already set to Cross G.

  2. Play one string at a time – Cross G Violin Tuning

    Play one string at a time

    Let a string ring and watch the needle. Auto mode finds the closest string in Cross G tuning for you.

  3. Turn the peg until green – Cross G Violin Tuning

    Turn the peg until green

    Needle on the left means flat (too low), so tighten. Needle on the right means sharp (too high), so loosen. Green means the string is in tune.

Frequently asked questions

What are the notes of Cross G tuning?

From string 4 to string 1, Cross G tuning on the violin is G3, D4, G4, D5.

What are the string frequencies of Cross G tuning?

At the standard reference pitch of A4 = 440 Hz, the strings are tuned to G3 196.00 Hz, D4 293.66 Hz, G4 392.00 Hz, D5 587.33 Hz. If you change A4 in the tuner settings, every target changes too.

How do I get from Standard tuning to Cross G tuning?

2 of the 4 strings change. Work through the table one string at a time.

What chord do the open strings of Cross G tuning make?

If you strum the open strings, they play G power chord (G5). Lay one finger flat across any fret and you get the same chord, one semitone higher for each fret.

Can I tune to Cross G tuning without a microphone?

Yes. Tap a string on the headstock to hear its note and match it by ear. You can also switch on Repeat to hear the note every few seconds while you turn the peg.

Similar tunings

All violin tunings

Violin & fiddle