Topmusicanswers
My understanding is the ukulele is descended from the Portuguese machete de braça and the rajuo, both small guitar-like instruments, both typically run with "out of order" tunings to facilitate a style of play popular in Portugal, playing both melody line and accompaniment at once.
- Why are ukulele strings in that order?
- What order do the strings go on a ukulele?
- Why is a ukulele tuned the way it is?
- Why is the ukulele tuned GCEA?
Why are ukulele strings in that order?
The practical reason for reentrant tuning is to make it easier to play the chord voicings with simple chord forms (the way your fingers make the chords). Each chord voicing has a different sound and the high G string would make for a brighter sound with simple chord forms.
What order do the strings go on a ukulele?
The ukulele string order is done by numbering them 1, 2, 3 and 4. The one is the string closest to the ground, normally the A string. Strings 2, 3 and 4 get closer to you as you go up in numbers and are associated with the E, C, and G strings from the naming section.
Why is a ukulele tuned the way it is?
It clarifies the structure of chords and scales, i.e. it's a better tool for teaching music. It's better for ensemble playing: some students can play melody while others play (lower) accompaniment parts.
Why is the ukulele tuned GCEA?
Ukulele gCEA Tuning. This method of tuning, with the high notes as the two outside strings of the instrument, is known as re-entrant tuning. ... An advantage of this tuning is that it is easier to play chords that are common on the guitar – most notably E – allowing you to play along with guitar songs with less hassle.
