Seven different fiddle tunings used in oldtime fiddling

In this video we're looking at seven (mostly) common fiddle tunings used in oldtime American fiddling, along with me playing a few times around a tune in each tuning for good measure. Starting of course in Standard the journey from there will take you through High Bass, Cross A, Calico, GDAD, DDAD and finally a special and very unique E min tuning. The tunes are 1. Broken Down Gambler 2. Cumberland Gap 3. Booth Shot Lincoln 4. Happy Hollow 5. Indian Woman 6. Raleigh and Spencer and 7. We're Gonna Hunt The Buffalo. Support lessons with George at / georgejackson

[@markwelsh5853]

As a 78-year-old beginner to the violin, your explanations on tuning have magnified my understanding tenfold. Thank you.

[@debbu3167]

Thank you George. Your videos are SO helpful. 🤩👏👏👏

[@paullanctot2710]

Awesome video thank you

[@johnschneider4160]

George, thanks for this insight.

[@susanpatton6184]

Thanks for the clear explanation and examples!

[@Timothydlol]

buddy, i like your channel!

[@dwaingibbs93]

I'm assuming the calico tuning is named after the song calico that uses this tuning. A lot of banjo tunings are called by a popular song name that uses said tuning.

[@GeorgeJacksonMusic]

True!

[@joeflahavan2650]

Good video. What brand of strings can withstand the up tuning? Thanks.

[@GeorgeJacksonMusic]

Medium gauge strings will have more give on them, so try medium gauge Daddario Helicore strings, that's what I use generally. Gotta be real careful if you're going up to the E minor tuning though, it's a risky tuning.

[@joeflahavan2650]

@@GeorgeJacksonMusic Thanks George, good to know.

[@aryeh-xw7mi]

Question: Standard tuning is perfect 5ths, which is not exactly the same as, say, on a piano. What do you tune these strings to when you can't hear the perfect fifth, since it's not tuned to fifths? If my ear is accustomed to hear a perfect fifth, how do I accustom my ear to hear a perfect fourth or octave? I can't just tune to a piano, can I?

[@paullanctot2710]

Use an electronic tuner or an app like guitar tuna. Or even better take an ear training class at your local community college.