Online viola tuner
In standard tuning, the open strings of viola, from string 4 to string 1, are C3 G3 D4 A4, with concert A (A4) at 440 Hz. The lowest note is C3, at 130.81 Hz, and the highest is A4, at 440.00 Hz.
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— Hz — cents
Tap “Turn on tuner” and allow the microphone.
Standard tuning
Standard viola tuning (the bowed viola of the orchestra), in fifths: C, G, D, A, a fifth below the violin.
Notes: C3 G3 D4 A4.
How to tune the viola
The viola is tuned in fifths, a fifth below the violin: C, G, D, A (C3 G3 D4 A4). It shares the A string with the violin and, instead of the high E, has a low C string. Tune the A first, the reference note of the orchestra, then D, G and C. Use the peg for big changes, turning slowly and pushing it in so it holds, and, if there is one, the fine tuner on the tailpiece for the last bit.
Notes and frequencies of each string
| String | Note | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | C3 | 130.81 Hz |
| 3 | G3 | 196.00 Hz |
| 2 | D4 | 293.66 Hz |
| 1 | A4 | 440.00 Hz |
How to use it
Tap “Turn on tuner”, allow the microphone and play one open string at a time. The tuner recognises the string and shows whether to tighten it (it is flat) or loosen it (it is sharp). Tap a string name to lock onto it and hear the reference note.
Frequently asked questions
What are the open-string notes of viola in standard tuning?
From string 4 to string 1: C3 G3 D4 A4.
What is the frequency of the lowest note in this tuning?
It is C3, at 130.81 Hz (with concert A at 440 Hz). The highest is A4, at 440.00 Hz.
How do I tune the viola?
The viola is tuned in fifths, a fifth below the violin: C, G, D, A (C3 G3 D4 A4). It shares the A string with the violin and, instead of the high E, has a low C string. Tune the A first, the reference note of the orchestra, then D, G and C. Use the peg for big changes, turning slowly and pushing it in so it holds, and, if there is one, the fine tuner on the tailpiece for the last bit.
Does the tuner work offline?
Yes. After the first visit (or once installed as an app), the pages open without a connection and pitch detection happens on your device.
What are cents?
A cent is one hundredth of a semitone. Up to 5 cents off is barely audible; the needle turns green in that range.
Can I change the reference A?
Yes: the − and + buttons set A4 anywhere from 430 to 450 Hz, to play along with a piano or a recording tuned differently. Your choice is saved.
Does the microphone record what I play?
No. The sound is analysed on the fly, inside the browser, and is never recorded or sent anywhere.