Cello tuning
Cello Scordatura for Bach Suite No. 5 Tuning
Top string lowered a whole step as Bach specified in the C-minor suite.
String pitches & frequencies
| String | Note | Frequency | MIDI | Interval to next | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | C2 | 65.41 Hz | 36 | perfect fifth | |
| 3 | G2 | 98.00 Hz | 43 | perfect fifth | |
| 2 | D3 | 146.83 Hz | 50 | perfect fourth | |
| 1 | G3 | 196.00 Hz | 55 | — |
Strings listed from lowest to highest. Frequencies at A4 = 440 Hz, equal temperament.
How to tune to Scordatura for Bach Suite No. 5
- Open the chromatic tuner (or play each reference tone above).
- Start from the lowest string and tune each one to C2, G2, D3, G3.
- Tune up to each pitch: if you overshoot, drop below and come back up so the string settles.
- Check every string once more — changing the tension of one string slightly pulls the others.
Frequently asked questions
What are the notes of Scordatura for Bach Suite No. 5 tuning?
C2 (65.41 Hz), G2 (98.00 Hz), D3 (146.83 Hz), G3 (196.00 Hz).
How do I tune a cello to Scordatura for Bach Suite No. 5?
Tune each string to the pitches above with a chromatic tuner, starting from the lowest string; then re-check, because changing one string's tension slightly detunes the others.