The ukulele, often called the “uke,” is a small, four-stringed instrument that originated in Hawaii in the 19th century. It is known for its cheerful sound and ease of use, making it popular among beginners and experienced musicians alike. In this column, we’ll dive deep into what makes the ukulele unique and cover essential topics such as how to play it, basic chords, tuning, prices, and iconic songs that showcase its versatility.
How to Play Ukulele
Learning to play the ukulele is accessible for nearly everyone. The ukulele’s light strings and manageable size make it one of the easiest instruments to start with. Here’s a beginner-friendly approach:
Holding the Ukulele: Rest the body of the ukulele against your chest, and hold the neck in your left hand (if you are right-handed; reverse if you’re left-handed). Your right arm should lightly support the instrument’s body.
Strumming: Use your index finger or thumb to strum the strings where the neck meets the body. For a softer sound, use your thumb, while the index finger gives a brighter tone.
Finger Placement: Your left hand is used to press down on the strings at different frets to produce notes. Start by familiarizing yourself with the frets, as each fret changes the pitch of the note.
Basic Exercises: Before jumping into songs, practice moving your fingers along the fretboard. This will help with finger strength and coordination.
Ukulele Chords
Chords are the foundation of playing songs on the ukulele. Chords are formed by pressing down a specific combination of frets to produce a harmonious sound. Here are some fundamental ukulele chords to get you started:
C Major: Place your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the A string. This is one of the easiest chords and often the first one beginners learn.
G Major: Place your index finger on the 2nd fret of the C string, your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the A string, and your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the E string.
F Major: Place your index finger on the 1st fret of the E string and your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the G string.
Am (A Minor): Place your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the G string. This is another easy chord for beginners.
Most ukulele songs for beginners use these four chords. Practicing chord transitions and playing them in sequence will allow you to start playing recognizable songs quickly.
Ukulele Tuning
Proper tuning is essential for achieving the ukulele’s characteristic sound. The most common tuning for ukuleles is G-C-E-A (from top string to bottom string), which is also called “standard tuning” or “C tuning.”
G String (Top): The top string is tuned to G.
C String: The second string is tuned to C, which is the lowest pitch on the ukulele.
E String: The third string is tuned to E.
A String (Bottom): The bottom string is tuned to A.
Using a tuner, pluck each string while adjusting the tuning pegs until the correct note is displayed. Tuning apps or clip-on tuners are also popular choices and often affordable.
Ukulele Price
The price of a ukulele can vary depending on the type, quality, brand, and materials used. Here’s a general breakdown of ukulele prices:
Beginner Ukuleles: Typically, beginner ukuleles range from $20 to $60. These are usually made of laminated wood, which is affordable and durable for first-time players.
Intermediate Ukuleles: For intermediate players, prices range from $70 to $150. These ukuleles often feature solid wood or higher-quality craftsmanship.
Professional Ukuleles: Professional-grade ukuleles can cost anywhere from $200 to $1,000 or more. These instruments are usually handcrafted and made of premium solid woods like koa, mahogany, or spruce, producing a richer sound.
Most beginners are advised to start with a basic model and upgrade if they enjoy playing. Reputable brands like Kala, Lanikai, and Fender offer reliable entry-level options.
Famous Ukulele Songs
The ukulele’s unique sound has made it a staple in many famous songs across genres. Here are some iconic ukulele songs that beginners and seasoned players alike enjoy:
“Somewhere Over the Rainbow” by Israel Kamakawiwo’ole: This rendition of the classic song is perhaps one of the most famous ukulele performances in history. Its soothing chords and melody make it perfect for ukulele players of all levels.
“Riptide” by Vance Joy: A popular choice for beginner ukulele players, this song features a simple chord progression (Am, G, C) that’s easy to master.
“I’m Yours” by Jason Mraz: With its upbeat rhythm and catchy tune, this song became widely popular among ukulele players. The chord sequence (C, G, Am, F) is straightforward and sounds great on the ukulele.
“La Vie en Rose” by Edith Piaf: This classic French song sounds beautiful on the ukulele. A simplified version of the chords allows players to capture its romance and elegance.
“Hey, Soul Sister” by Train: Known for its ukulele riff, this song features a fun and upbeat chord sequence that’s enjoyable to play and sing along to.
