Ukulele: A basic intro

Ukulele

The ukulele is one of the best instruments for beginners to be able to play simple songs almost instantly.

The “uke” as we sometimes call it is a smallish 4 string instrument kinda like a mini guitar. We strum or pluck the strings with one hand and change the notes or chords with the other. It’s fun, affordable and easy to get started on.

A ukulele is great for smaller hands, has a sweet gentle sound is a very forgiving instrument for beginners. I tried to teach myself the fiddle around the time my daughter was learning clarinet for school. That was a rough couple of months! I had to shut the windows to spare the poor neighbors. You will never hurt anyone with the sound of a ukulele.

Uke is easy as 1-2-3

With just a 1 finger chord, a 2 finger chord and a 3 finger chord you will be able to play a wide range of kid and pop songs in a very short time. The ukulele community is a very open and friendly group of people and there are ukulele strum groups and get togethers all over the place. Ukulele seems to attract a very light hearted and helpful group of people and they are usually open to helping new players.

Uke is also a great primer for guitar if the student is too young and hands aren’t quite big enough yet.

Another great thing about ukes is the price. There are many decent ukuleles under a $100 that are fine for beginners. Check out your local independent music store if you have one you like and trust.

If you don’t have that option, here is a link to a good beginner ukulele package from our friends at sweetwater.com. It’s a nice starter Kahla uke with a soft case and it also comes with lessons on how to play. If you buy from them with this link we do get a little something from them but it does NOT add to your cost. It just helps keep this website going.

If you own a uke already or can borrow one, here are some simple beginner ukulele lessons on Youtube here that can get you started right away.