Viola da gamba tuner
The opening six-string bass viol tuning is D2–G2–C3–E3–A3–D4. A seven-string bass adds A1 below the same six strings. Tenor and treble instruments have separate presets.
Open-string notes and frequencies
Viola da gamba: Bass viol · six strings. Equal-tempered frequencies at A4 = 440 Hz; the live targets follow the selected A reference.
| String / course | Sounding note | Frequency (Hz) |
|---|---|---|
| String 6 | D2 | 73.42 |
| String 5 | G2 | 98.00 |
| String 4 | C3 | 130.81 |
| String 3 | E3 | 164.81 |
| String 2 | A3 | 220.00 |
| String 1 | D4 | 293.66 |
How to use it
- Identify bass, tenor or treble, and count whether the bass has six or seven strings.
- Select that size before touching a peg: the menu changes the register, not just the names.
- Set the A reference agreed with the consort, keyboard or historical-performance group.
- Bow or pluck one open string, with the left hand clear of both frets and strings.
- Make small peg adjustments, work across the set, and recheck the lower strings after the first pass.
Help and explanations
The Viola da Gamba Society of America explains the shared pattern: fourth, fourth, major third, fourth, fourth. The middle C–E interval in a bass viol is a third; applying cello-style fifths would give the wrong string setup.
Four sizes represented by their actual registers
The tenor preset is G2–C3–F3–A3–D4–G4. The treble preset is D3–G3–C4–E4–A4–D5, one octave above the six-string bass. The seven-string bass extends down to A1; it does not shift the original six pitches. These are instrument-size options, not a suggestion to retune a bass viol to treble tension.
A historical consort may use a different pitch reference, such as A415. Agree that reference before comparing strings with a fixed-pitch keyboard. The numerical frequency table uses A440 and equal temperament; changing A shifts the live references together. Historical temperament and pure interval decisions still need to follow the ensemble’s musical practice.
Separate an open-string check from a fret check
Gut strings can change pitch as they settle and as conditions change. Use a consistent, moderate bow stroke when reading the needle. After tuning open strings, compare a few stopped notes without squeezing. Movable gut frets and a player’s finger pressure can affect those notes; an open string being correct does not verify every fret.
Lyra-viol music uses many piece-specific tunings. Read its tablature and tuning instructions before choosing a preset. This page supplies the standard consort-size arrangements, while the chromatic tuner can help measure a different documented setup.
Tips
- Remember the central third rather than assuming every interval is a fourth.
- Check low A1 gently on a seven-string bass and compare with its reference tone.
- Revisit the open strings after the instrument has warmed in playing position.
Frequently asked questions
How is a six-string bass viol tuned?
From bass to treble: D2 G2 C3 E3 A3 D4.
What does the seventh string add?
It adds a low A1 below D2. The original six-string bass arrangement stays the same.
What are tenor and treble viol tunings?
Tenor is G2 C3 F3 A3 D4 G4; treble is D3 G3 C4 E4 A4 D5.
Should I always use A440?
Use the reference agreed with the ensemble. Historical-performance groups may choose another A pitch.
Does the page include every lyra-viol tuning?
No. That repertoire uses many specific arrangements. Follow the piece’s tuning directions and use chromatic readings when needed.