What are the notes of Cross A (AEAE) tuning?

Cross A (AEAE) tuning on violin is A E A E, from the lowest string to the highest.

How do I tune to Cross A (AEAE) from standard tuning?

Starting from standard (G D A E): string 4 up a whole step, string 3 up a whole step. Every other string stays the same. Use the tuner above to check each string.

Is Cross A (AEAE) tuning bad for my violin?

No. Changing tuning is completely safe. Just tune gradually, and when raising pitch go slowly so you don't over-tighten a string. After a big change, the neck can take a day to settle, so check your tuning again.

Cross A (AEAE) tuningA E A E

Cross A tuning (A E A E) is a popular old-time fiddle cross-tuning for tunes in A.

Also called · AEAE · Calico

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String chart

String 1 is the thinnest. Frequencies are exact at A4 = 440 Hz; change the reference on the A4 knob.

StrNoteFrequencyFrom std.

1EE5 · Mi659.3 Hz—

2AA4 · La440.0 Hz—

3EE4 · Mi329.6 Hz▲ a whole step

4AA3 · La220.0 Hz▲ a whole step

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Tuning your violin to Cross A (AEAE)

Automatically with the microphone, or by ear: tap any note on the headstock to hear a real recorded reference.

1
Allow microphone access and hold the violin close to your device.
2
Start with the A string. Pluck it or bow a long, steady note.
3
Use the fine tuners on the tailpiece for small corrections. Use the pegs only when a string is far out, turning gently while pushing the peg in.
4
Tune D, G and E the same way, then check the A again.

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Violin tunings

2 tunings, all free. Notes listed from the lowest string.

Standard

StandardG D A E

Alternate

◆ Cross A (AEAE)A E A E

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Questions & troubleshooting

What are the notes of Cross A (AEAE) tuning?: Cross A (AEAE) tuning on violin is A E A E, from the lowest string to the highest.
How do I tune to Cross A (AEAE) from standard tuning?: Starting from standard (G D A E): string 4 up a whole step, string 3 up a whole step. Every other string stays the same. Use the tuner above to check each string.
Is Cross A (AEAE) tuning bad for my violin?: No. Changing tuning is completely safe. Just tune gradually, and when raising pitch go slowly so you don't over-tighten a string. After a big change, the neck can take a day to settle, so check your tuning again.

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