How to Play in Open D Tuning? Chords Chart

We use affiliate links. If you purchase something using one of these links, we may receive compensation or commission.

Introduction.

Open D tuning is an alternative tuning for guitar where the strings are adjusted to create a D major chord when strummed open (without fretting any strings). This unlocks a unique sound and makes playing chords much easier compared to standard tuning.
In my another post I described how (accidentally) I was presented to Open D tuning.

This guide is geared towards guitarists of all levels, from beginners to intermediates. Whether you’re just starting out and want to explore new and easier ways to create full-sounding chords, or you’re an intermediate player looking to expand your sonic palette with a versatile tuning, open D tuning offers something for everyone.

Tuning Your Guitar to Open D

The key difference between open D tuning and standard tuning lies in the pitches of the open strings. In standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E), strumming all strings open creates no specific chord. However, open D tuning (D-A-D-F#-A-D) allows you to strum the open strings and instantly get a D major chord. This simplifies forming other chords in the key of D and even venturing outside of D in open D tuning.
With open D, you need to tune down four strings—E, G, B, and another E. Your A and D strings will stay the same. Most guitars can handle this change without any special adjustments needed.

Here’s how to adjust your strings for open D tuning:

Grab a tuner (electronic or another guitar in standard tuning) or use a reference pitch (tuning fork set to D). A tuner will give you the most precise results, but you can also use a reliable reference point.
Start with the thickest string (the 6th string). If you’re using a tuner, play the open E string and slowly turn the tuning peg counter-clockwise (away from you) until the tuner reads D. Alternatively, if using a reference pitch, play the open E string and then the reference D pitch. Adjust the tuning peg until both notes sound the same.
Repeat step 2 for the 1st string (the thinnest string). Tune it down from E to D using the same method with your tuner or reference pitch.
Move on to the 5th string (the B string). Tune it down a whole step from B to A, following the same process as before.
The 3rd string (the G string) is the only one that needs a half-step adjustment. Tune it down from G to F# using your tuner or reference pitch (play the G string and then the F# on your reference source and adjust the tuning peg until they match).

Pro Tip: It’s helpful to tune each string one at a time, checking it against your reference pitch or tuner before moving on to the next string. This will help ensure all strings are in tune with each other.

Double-check: Once you’ve adjusted all four strings, play each open string (D-A-D-F#-A-D) and strum the entire chord. It should sound like a clear and resonant D major chord. You can fine-tune any adjustments using your tuner or reference pitch.

Understanding Open D Chords

Open chords in open D tuning are the magic behind this setup. Because of how the strings are tuned, strumming all the strings open (without fretting) automatically creates a D major chord. This is because the open strings themselves ring out the notes D, F#, and A, which are the fundamental notes of a D major chord. This makes playing chords in open D incredibly easy – you don’t need to fret multiple strings to form basic chords, you simply strum the open strings. You just fret all the strings on a certain note.

Open D Chords Chart

Chord Name	Barre Fret	Finger Positions
D Major (D)	X	Open (all strings ring)
E Major (E)	2	0 (A string), 2 (D string), 3 (G string), 2 (B string), 0 (E string)
F# Minor (F#m)	2	2 (A string), 4 (D string), 4 (G string), 2 (B string), 0 (E string)
G Major (G)	0	3 (A string), 0 (D string), 0 (G string), 0 (B string), 3 (E string)
A Major (A)	X	Open (all strings ring)
Bm (B minor)	2	2 (A string), 4 (D string), 4 (G string), 4 (B string), 2 (E string)
C Major (C)	5	5 (A string), 5 (D string), 5 (G string), 5 (B string), 3 (E string)
D Minor (Dm)	0	0 (A string), 0 (D string), 1 (G string), 3 (B string), 0 (E string)

Note: This table provides a starting point for some common chords in open D tuning. There are many other chords you can play, and variations of these chords may exist.
The following chart represents more completelist of the open D chords.

Tips and Tricks

Practice Makes Perfect: When familiarizing yourself with open D chords, take it step-by-step.

Start with the Open Chords: Begin by focusing on the open chords (D major, A major) that simply involve strumming the open strings. Get comfortable switching between these chords cleanly and keeping a steady rhythm.
Graduate to Barre Chords: Once you’re confident with the open chords, tackle the barre chords (E major, F# minor, etc.). Practice holding the barre across the specified fret (typically the 2nd fret) and ensure all strings ring clearly. It takes time to build finger strength for barre chords, so be patient and consistent with your practice.

While open D tuning itself offers a wealth of sonic possibilities, you can further expand your options by using a capo. Placing a capo at different frets in open D tuning effectively creates new “open voicings” of familiar chords. For instance, a capo on the second fret in open D mimics the sound of standard tuning (E capoed at the second fret equals open D), while a capo on the fifth fret creates an open G tuning (capo at the fifth fret in open D equals open G). This allows you to explore familiar chord progressions in new tonal landscapes without retuning your guitar.

Conclusion

In summary, open D tuning offers a gateway to richer and easier chord voicings for guitarists. By simply adjusting four strings, you unlock a world of open chords and simplified barre chords, perfect for both beginners and intermediate players looking to expand their sound. With its versatility and ease of use, open D tuning opens doors to new musical possibilities – all you need is a tuner and a willingness to explore!

For those who want to delve deeper: There are fantastic online resources available to help you master open D tuning. Websites like https://opendtuning.org/ offer video lessons, chord charts for popular songs in open D, and downloadable exercises specifically designed for this tuning.
Explore the songs: Many legendary guitarists have embraced open D tuning. Check out songs like “Honky Tonk Women” by The Rolling Stones, or “Tijuana” of Harry Manx if you prefer sliding to hear open D in action and inspire your own playing.