Need to tune your guitar but don't have a tuner? No problem!

In this quick lesson, we'll learn how to tune your guitar by ear using natural harmonics. Whether you're a beginner or just caught without your tuner, we'll explore a useful method for getting your guitar sounding in tune fast.

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The Harmonics Method

This method makes it easy to get the guitar in tune with itself. It usually starts with the A string, tuned to another instrument for reference or estimated by ear if no reference is available. From there, the rest of the strings can be tuned relative to it.

Using this method, you learn to tune the rest of your strings accurately and confidently using harmonic tones and your ears. In just a few minutes, you'll know how to:

Use natural harmonics to match the pitch between strings.
Hear and correct tuning by listening for wobbles—that's the technical term. Ha ha.
Tune your guitar to itself, even if you're not in "concert pitch".

This tuning trick is incredibly handy for jam sessions, travel, or anytime you want to sharpen your ear training. It also helps you understand why some guitars sound "off" even when technically in tune—and how to fix it.

Go Further!

In this short tutorial, you'll also learn:

How to play harmonics
How to double-check the tuning of the high and low E strings using harmonics
Why harmonics are better than the "5th fret method"

Tuning your guitar by ear is a fast, effective way to build your skills and keep your guitar sounding great, even without tech. Learning to tune your guitar with harmonics is one of the most valuable skills a guitarist can develop—nobody likes listening to an out-of-tune guitar.

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