Feeling the pull of music but intimidated by complex instruments? The ukulele beckons! This portable wonder holds a world of joy, starting with its easy-to-learn chords and friendly melodies. Soon, you’ll be strumming along to your favorite tunes, feeling the stress melt away and a smile bloom on your face. Ready to join the happy strumming crowd? Grab a uke, find some online lessons, and embark on your musical adventure!
Playing the Ukulele
as a hobby
Reviewed by:
Everybody should have and play a “uke”. It’s so simple to carry with you and it is one instrument you can’t play and not laugh.
George Harisson
Helpful content to get started
The page is curated to inspire and help you get started with playing the ukulele as a hobby.
Overwhelmed? Play a random video or podcast to start getting familiar with playing the ukulele.
We strive for accuracy, but errors may occur. Always use your judgment. Refer to the listed resources for further research.
Videos
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Podcasts
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The word ukulele is Hawaiian in origin, and translates as “jumping flea”.
How the Ukulele Got Its Name | Merriam-Webster
Terms
Basic lingo for orientation.
Tuning
- Headstock: Top part of the ukulele where tuners are located.
- High G vs. Low G: Tuning variations affecting the first string’s pitch.
- Standard tuning: Most common tuning (G, C, E, A).
- Tuners: Knobs used to adjust string tension and pitch.
Parts of the Ukulele
- Body: Main part of the instrument where sound resonates.
- Bridge: Piece at the bottom of the body where strings are attached.
- Fretboard: Flat surface on the neck where fingers press strings.
- Frets: Metal bars dividing the neck into sections, determining note pitch.
- Neck: Long, thin part where frets are located.
- Nut: Piece at the top of the neck where strings are attached.
- Strings: Four nylon or fluorocarbon strings played to create sound.
Playing Techniques
- Barre chords: Chords played by pressing one finger across multiple frets.
- Chords: Combinations of notes played together.
- Fingerpicking: Playing individual notes with fingers.
- Picking: Playing individual strings with fingers or pick.
- Scale: Series of notes played in ascending or descending order.
- Strumming: Downward or upward picking motion across strings.
Other Terms
- Action: Height of strings above the fretboard.
- Capo: Device placed on the neck to raise the pitch of strings.
- Rhythm: Pattern and timing of strumming or picking.
- Tablature: Music notation showing finger placement on strings.
- Tempo: Speed of the music.
Term Videos
First Steps
How to break the ice and make a start. One Aha! moment is all you need.
- Buy an affordable ukulele starter kit.
- Follow YouTube tutorials, books, online courses, or apps.
First Steps Videos
Products
Essentials to have.
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How-Tos
Step-by-step tutorials.
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The ukulele is a great instrument for beginners. The ukulele has only four strings and a generous fretboard. It’s compact-sized, so it’s easy to carry around. There are many moderately-priced ukulele brands in the market, so buying one hardly makes a dent in the budget. All these reasons make the ukulele one of the most popular choices for beginners. Musicians also observed that starting off with the ukulele is less overwhelming for someone who’s just starting out.
14 Fun And Interesting Facts About The Ukulele You Might Not Know | Hello Music Theory
Books
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Articles
Further reading.
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Websites
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Movies & TV
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The current form of the ukulele is based on four Portuguese instruments that the immigrants to Hawaii brought along with them.
How the Ukulele Got Its Name | Merriam-Webster
FAQS
Get a clue.
Q: Is it hard to learn ukulele?
A: Compared to some other instruments, the ukulele is considered beginner-friendly. The basic chords and strumming patterns are relatively easy to grasp, and there are tons of resources available to help you learn.
Q: How long does it take to learn ukulele?
A: It depends on your goals and practice time. You can learn basic chords and strumming in a few weeks, but mastering more advanced techniques takes longer.
Q: How much does a ukulele cost?
A: Ukuleles can range in price from around $40 for a beginner model to hundreds of dollars for professional instruments.
Q: Do I need a teacher to learn ukulele?
Q: Can I learn ukulele as an adult?
A: Absolutely! There’s no age limit for learning an instrument. Many adults find the ukulele a fun and rewarding challenge.
Q: What are the benefits of playing ukulele?
A: Playing music offers many benefits, including stress relief, improved cognitive function, and increased social interaction. The ukulele is particularly known for its portability and affordability, making it accessible to a wider audience.
Q: Are there different types of Ukulele?
A: Yes! The most common types are:
- Soprano: The smallest and highest-pitched ukulele, good for portability and learning basic chords.
- Concert: Slightly larger and deeper-toned than the soprano, good for beginners and intermediate players.
- Tenor: Larger and louder than the soprano and concert, offering a wider range and fuller sound.
- Baritone: The largest and lowest-pitched ukulele, tuned like the four highest strings of a guitar, popular for fingerpicking and playing basslines.
There are also other less common types like the guitalele (6-string ukulele) and bass ukulele. Your choice will depend on your desired sound, playing style, and hand size.
Q: What size ukulele should I start with?
Q: What accessories do I need to start?
A: A tuner, a strap (optional), and a case are helpful, but not essential at the beginning. Everything you need is included in a ukulele starter kit.
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Apps
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Courses
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Community & Near You
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Tips
Additional advice for beginners.
Video Tips
Neil Armstrong, the first human being to walk on the Moon, was a ukulele fan. Armstrong played the ukulele in a quarantine facility after Apollo 11 returned from the Moon.
NASA
Related Hobbies
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Additional Information
Hobby attributes.
| Attributes | Value |
|---|---|
| Activities | Creating, Learning, Performing, Playing, Relaxing, Socializing |
| Fields | Arts, Crafts, Language and Communication, Music, Performance Arts, Spirituality, Wellbeing |
| Locations | |
| Participants | |
| Skills | Active Listening, Attention to Detail, Concentration, Creativity, Emotional Intelligence, Empathy, Fine Motor Skills, Hand-eye Coordination, Imagination, Mathematical Skills, Memory, Mindfulness, Multitasking, Musical Ability, Patience, Perseverance, Public Speaking, Self-esteem, Social Skills |
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