You can tune a ukulele to any tuning you like as long as there are strings available, and the construction can support it.
A ukulele is constructed basically like a small guitar, typically a classical guitar. As such, a lot of the same concerns, and information, technique and resources can be used for the ukulele.
Most ukulele strings are classical guitar stings cut the ukulele lengths, depending on the size of the ukulele. Many major string manufactures are creating special string formulations are now being used to draw on and enhance specific ukulele characteristics. But, there are pretty music classical guitar strings.
Ukuleles are generally constructed to support the following approximate strings tensions (4 stringed ukuleles).
- Soprano: 30lbs
- Concert: 30lbs
- Tenor: 40lbs
- Baritone: 50lbs
NOTE: Consult the specific string manufacture or builder for any specifics regarding your particular instrument.
Here are a few links and resources for some great information on classical strings:
- How to Select the Best Classical Guitar Strings for Your Nylon String Guitars from Classical Guitar Express
(source: FleaMarketMusic.com) Any classical guitar strings will work. You'd only use the D G B and E strings. As far as I know, there aren't any unwound classical D strings.
- Use the classical guitar D string for string four G when using a low G tuning. If using a high G, just use a string one for string four. THey are so close in gauge that it will not really matter.
- Use the classical G string for the string three C.
- Use the classical B string for the string two E.
- Use the classical E string for the string one A.
Bottom-line use the higher four strings of the classical guitar on your ukulele.
Any gauge of string would work, depending on how much tension you like on your strings and if your ukulele can support it. Refer to the Ukulele Strings section of the site for more information on these and many other brands of ukulele strings.




G, C tuning. For my Solid Koa Top Pono and Magic Fluke Tenor Fluke it they Ko'olau Golds or Ko'olau Golds Manaha strings.


$20 USD
- String 1 — Thomastik-Infeld Classic Guitar, Carbon Nylon Hybrid Material CPK24 (.024in/62mm, 19.40lbs/8.80KG) tuned to A (A4)
- String 1 — Thomastik-Infeld Classic Guitar, Carbon Nylon Hybrid Material CPK27 (.027in/69mm, 14.55lbs/6.60KG) tuned to E (E4)
- String 3 — Thomastik-Infeld Classic-N Supernova CF27 Chrome Steel Flat, .027, 039 (.027in/69mm, 14.20lbs/6.50KG) tuned to C (C4) a.k.a. Middle C
- String 4 — Thomastik-Infeld Classic-N Supernova CF30 Chrome Steel Flat, .030, 039 (.030in/76mm, 14.70lbs/6.50KG) tuned to G (C3) a.k.a. Low G in the Uke world
Tension Note: This set is a higher tension, so be sure to verify with the manufacture or builder that the ukulele can handle it.




$25 USD
- String 1 — Savarez Alliance KF Plain Treble Standard Tension .024, 541R (.024in/62mm, 17.44lbs/7.9KG) tuned to A (A4)
- String 2 — Savarez Alliance KF Plain Treble Standard Tension .027, 542R (.027in/62mm, 13.02lbs/5.9KG) tuned to E (E4)
- String 3 — Thomastik-Infeld Classic-N CF27 Chrome Steel Flat, .027, 039 (.027in/69mm, 14.20lbs/6.50KG) tuned to C (C4) a.k.a. Middle C
- String 4 — Thomastik-Infeld Classic-N CF30 Chrome Steel Flat, .030, 039 (.030in/76mm, 14.70lbs/6.50KG) tuned to G (C3) a.k.a. Low G in the Uke world
This is the set that (Curt) currently recommends for tenor ukuleles in C Tuning with a High G
.
Strings are one area where different ukuleles might prefer different strings. A ukulele can be very opinionated as to the stings that it likes and brings out its best. Basically, your mileage might vary.
For my (Curt) Magic Fluke Solid Top Tenor Fluke I use Ko'olau Golds. I have a few sets left for personal use, as these are discontinued.

- String 4 — Thomastik-Infeld Classic-N, Carbon Nylon Hybrid Material CPK24 (.024in/62mm, 19.40lbs/8.80KG) tuned to G (G4)
Strings one, two, and three are the same as the Low G, C Tuning sets above.
