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Violin, viola, and cello are tuned in perfect fifths and share many tuning principles. This guide covers all three instruments with the specific quirks of each.

String Instrument Tuning Basics

All three instruments use pegs for large adjustments and fine tuners at the tailpiece for precision. Always finish by tuning up: strings have peg backlash that causes downward-tuned notes to drift flat over the next hour.

Bow with a steady, slow stroke rather than short choppy bowing. Sustained tone gives the cleanest reading for any tuner.

How to Tune a Violin (GDAE)

A violin's four strings are G3, D4, A4, E5: perfect fifths apart. Tune A first using A4 = 440 Hz, then check the others.

How to Tune a Viola (CGDA)

Viola tunes to C3, G3, D4, A4: a perfect fifth lower than violin. The viola's low C string gives the instrument its distinctive warm tone but is more sensitive to mic frequency response.

How to Tune a Cello (CGDA low)

Cello tunes to C2, G2, D3, A3: same letters as viola but a full octave lower. The C2 string vibrates at 65 Hz, which can be hard to detect on phone or laptop mics. For best results use an external mic or plug an electric cello into a USB interface.

Using Fine Tuners vs Pegs

Pegs make large adjustments: use for restringing or after long storage. Apply firm inward pressure while turning to keep the peg seated.

Fine tuners (thumbscrews at the tailpiece) make tiny adjustments. Use them for daily tuning once strings are close to pitch. Most modern cellos have fine tuners on all four strings; violins and violas often have them only on the E (or A) string.

Why String Instruments Go Out of Tune

Humidity is the biggest factor. Wood instruments expand and contract with humidity, changing string tension and tuning. A hard case with a humidifier (Dampit, Stretto) helps in dry winters.

Temperature changes also matter. A violin moved from a cold car to a warm room takes 10-15 minutes to fully acclimate and will detune during that period. Tune after, not before.

Tuning Before Every Practice Session

String instruments need tuning before every session. Even a well-cared-for instrument drifts noticeably overnight. 30 seconds of tuning prevents 30 minutes of practice with imperfect intonation building bad habits.

Professional players also tune mid-practice: between movements, after rapid temperature changes (stage lights, AC), and after any rough passages that stress the strings.