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TUNING THE CBG
Most CBGs use "open chord" tuning, which means you are able to play a set of 3 or more notes by placing your finger or slide across all the strings at the same spot on the neck.
Most cigar box guitars are tuned to one of three keys (although there are many other options):
G-D-g (using guitar strings A, D and G)
D-A-d (using guitar strings D, G and e)
E-A-e or E-a-e (see * below)
The lowest string is the key your guitar is tuned to. G-D-g is the key of G, D-A-d the key of D.
Four-string CBGs expand options greatly, including not only standard CBG tuning but also any 4-string instrument one prefers: tenor guitar, bass guitar, low 6-string guitar (EADG), high 6-string (DGbe), ukulele, mandolin and even violin. Common 4-string CBG tuning is GDgd or GDgb. Or, you can leave the lower string off and play it as a 3-string CBG. 4-string CBGs are very versatile instruments.
STANDARD CBG TUNING without a tuner
Tune the first (heaviest) string to whatever sounds and feels right. This should usually be a little lower and looser than you think it should be. The 2nd string (middle) is tuned the same as the 7th fret on the 1st string. The 3rd string (thinnest) is tuned to the 5th fret of the 2nd string. If you have a 4-string CBG, the 4th string is tuned to the 7th fret of the 3rd string. If you have a piano, tuning pipe or harmonica, you can tune to played notes.
NOT JUST 3 STRINGS
CBGs aren't limited to 3 or 4 strings. Some have 6 strings, like a regular guitar. Some have only two or even one string (called a "Diddley Bow"). Two Diddley Bows can be tuned to harmonic notes (G,D) and the players can automatically harmonize with each other by playing the same neck positions.
CBGs are extremely versatile instruments and are remarkably easy to get started playing. Among CBG players and builders there is one common rule: "There are no rules." That's part of what makes Cigar Box Guitars so much fun: their widespread individuality and unique nature.
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* EAE tuning. EAE is a unique tuning that can be done two ways:
E-A-e using the E-A lower strings and e treble. This is good for emphasizing the low end and "second-guitar" strumming.
E-a-e used the E low string, and the b & e trebles (tuning the b down one whole note to a). This offers a unique mixture of a really low string along with two trebles. This can be good for lead guitar playing or use of a slide.
Standard tuning of a CBG is G-D-g. But don't be afraid to try alternate tunings for different sounds. CBG enthusiasts often own more than one guitar, each tuned differently. Some have 3 strings, some 4, some the standard guitar 6. It is a very versatile instrument.
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