Ukulele

Getting Started

The ukulele is a very user-friendly instrument due to it’s smaller size, simple configuration, and ease of playing.  It’s not uncommon for students to be able to play simple melodies or complete songs after a few lessons.  I have also found that the Ukulele is an excellent instrument for students ages 5-8 who might struggle learning guitar due to strength or fine-motor limitations. Additionally, Ukuleles are generally very affordable when compared to other instruments. This gives students a low-cost opportunity to jump into lessons. This also provides families the opportunity to gauge the commitment level and interest of their student before further investment into lessons.

Learning Ukuele

Topics of Instruction

Technique

First time students will learn how to cultivate strength, coordination, and dexterity in the left-hand through a variety of exercises, scales, and single-note melodies.  They will also learn how to strum with their right hand using both a pick or their fingers.

Learning chords

Learning chords on the ukulele is a very reachable goal for beginning students.  At the start of lessons students will learn chords that only require 1 or 2 fingers to start.  As they continue they will become much more comfortable learning 3-4 fingered chords as well as chords that can be played higher up the fret-board.

Rhythm/Strumming

Whether using a pick or fingers we will study the common rhythm patterns found in traditional and contemporary music forms.  This aspect of the ukulele is very interesting since there is no lack of different ways to approach strumming and rhythm figures.  Much of this depends upon the individual artist and the specific genre of music they are working within. 

It takes a little bit of time to get comfortable playing notes with the left hand while also plucking or strumming strings with the right hand. So, I work with my students on exercises and music scales to help them develop their strength and coordination.  I also will utilize popular single-note songs to accomplish this as well.

Learning Songs

The ukulele is a very flexible instrument when it comes to learning songs. While generally associated with traditional Hawaiian music the ukulele can be used to play songs of any style or era.  It’s not uncommon for my students to start learning simple songs such as “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” and then move onto music that best reflects their current interests.  I really encourage students to provide me a list of songs and artists that they most enjoy learning.  There is no limitations on what can be played on the Ukulele.  I often teach guitar based songs on the Ukulele in addition to some of the more traditional music forms.  Quite recently I’ve taught songs by Queen, Yes, Train and Jason Mraz.  

Lesson Supplies

Here are a few things you will need:

  1. Soprano Ukulele with a case/gig bag
  2. Ukulele tuner
  3. Guitar/ukulele picks
  4. Ukulele Method Book (not needed at the first lesson)
  5. Music Stand (Optional but helpful for home practice).
Ukulele guitar on wooden table, Vintage tone
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