Guide to Ukuleles: Part of the guitar family, these are popular because of their compact size and warm sound that makes them a perfect companion when traveling. Ukes are great for beginners to learn music due to their small size, and serve as great travel companions in the hands of experienced musicians.
Overview
Anybody who has been to Hawaii has probably seen this musical instrument. You just can’t miss it if you are there. It’s used in almost all their musical performances.
And the ukulele is not just popular in that part of the world and associated only with the Hawaiian culture; in general, it’s a very popular instrument that is known to produce melodious sounds.
These were first created in 1879 in Hawaii by the Portuguese, and it used to be called “Madeiran / Madeira guitar” then. In Hawaiian language, the ukulele means “flying flea”.
Ukuleles are four stringed guitar-like instruments (but smaller in size) available in a variety of sizes & finishes.
Just go to YouTube and you will be surprised to see the number of videos posted by Ukulele players from all over the word, thus explaining the popularity of the instrument. But before you can learn to play the Ukulele, you need to buy one, and probably a few accessories as well (spare strings, tuner and a gig bag).
Popular Beginner Instrument
Most beginner music students want an instrument that is of decent quality, sounds nice, is fun to play, but also relatively inexpensive. The Ukulele is definitely one such instrument that you may consider, to pursue a nice hobby. The tone quality is good, has a cheerful sound to it, and its fun learning to play the Ukulele. It’s also easier to play because it has fewer strings (compared to a guitar).
Top reasons for the popularity of the ukulele instrument:
- It’s fun to play and also easy to play. It has only four strings. You will find kids, adults, seniors, playing and enjoying the uke. It’s a lifetime of musical joy and fun, and really easy to get started on.
- Now rivalling the recorder in the educational market, more music teachers are recommending the ukulele as an ideal introduction to music.
- These are inexpensive compared to most other popular musical instruments.
- The small sizes make these a great companion for travelers, and also for children as they can easily carry them to school or for music classes. The best choice for beginners is the soprano uke.
Most music teachers feel that the ukulele is comparatively easy to learn. Just learn a couple of chords and you can start playing some great tunes.
That’s why most schools encourage students to learn this instrument before taking up the guitar. And it’s also quite easy to carry to school due to its smaller size. There are many ways of learning to play this instrument, here’s a useful video that will give you the best beginning lesson. Just follow the instructions and you will get started in no time.
Ukulele vs Guitar
They both look similar and have several things in common, but they also have some differences.
Similarities
- Both have Frets and use similar Strumming patterns
- Finger picking is possible on both
- Tabs can be used to play them
- Construction, in terms of the wood and the bridge is similar
Differences
- Guitar has more range, have more number of frets, and are usually bigger in size
- Ukulele has four strings whereas Guitars use six
- Guitar requires more finger strength and toughness on the tips of fingers
- Different type of strings are used on Ukes
- Different type of picks are available for Ukes but a guitar pick can also be used on a ukulele
- Ukulele is usually written with a treble clef, guitar uses both treble and bass clef
Effect of Wood on the Sound
Ukuleles are made from various kinds of wood – laminated or solid wood, Mahogany & Koa. Different woods, used in the construction, impacts the sound produced from the uke.
- Denser woods like mahogany produce clear, guitar-like sound, while spruce and other soft woods have a mellowing effect on the tone.
- Ukuleles made from mahogany provide a nice balance between the bright sounds and the bass tones.
- Koa produces a sound that is warm and sweet.
- Nato sounds sharp, loud and resonant. Mango is quiet and restrained.
Experienced Ukulele players know the sounds of each, which helps them pick the best for their needs.
Types of Ukes
Also known as Ukes (short name for this instrument), these are available in different types (Soprano, Concert, Tenor, Baritone, Bass) depending on the range of sound it produces.
In addition, you also get electric Ukuleles that require an amplifier to be audible.
Tuning the Ukulele
Most Ukulele come with four strings, and they need to be tuned before you can start playing them.
If you already play the guitar, you may already have a tuner, or you may just buy a tuning device. You may even download any free a tuner on your computer.
You will need to tune the strings in the order G, C, E, A with G on the top, and A being the string at the bottom.
Ukulele Buying Guide
So which Ukulele should you buy?
It depends on whether you have played before or not. If you can play an instrument like guitar, you will be in a better position to appreciate the sound from the various types and choose accordingly.
What Ukulele should Beginners buy?
For most beginners, children and people with smaller hands and fingers, the soprano size works a lot better. If you are an absolute beginner, a soprano uke can be a good start because the sound is nice and it is affordable as well.
However, it is best to check out the sound of the various types by visiting a local music shop, and see what sounds and feels the best to you.
A useful tip for would-be uke players – If you decide to use a pick to play, try using a lighter gauge pick initially, as it helps get the best tone from your strumming.
While the guitar may be a popular instrument, the Ukulele is inexpensive and easier to learn; for about 40-50 bucks you can get hold of a nice instrument.
Ukes for Experienced Players
Experienced players may have a preference for a fuller sound, and some may not like the plunky sound that you get when you strum some of these.
The sound produced depends on the wood used to create the front, sides, and back. Dense woods like mahogany give a better & brighter sound. Softer woods like spruce mellow out the sound. Laminates can produce uneven results depending on the composite woods used but they are usually cheaper.
So, it depends on what you’re after.
Some may also prefer one with more tension on the strings, and a model on which the frets are wider so that it easier to play with your fingers.
You can choose from gut, nylon, or steel depending on the effect you are after, and the amount of sustain you’re after.
You may also need to change the strings often. Read more on Ukulele strings here.
It is also common for experienced players to own multiple instruments.
Popular Brands
There are several brands out there that manufacture Ukuleles. Popular brands include Kala, Makala, Lanakai, Mahalo, Martin (to name a few). Today, most ukuleles (especially the inexpensive ones) are made in China to keep costs down, while some are made in China but finished in the US.
The better ones are usually made from solid wood, and the sound produced is much more vibrant. Professional players often get their ukuleles made by experienced luthiers; these are of the highest quality but are very expensive.
Mahalo Ukuleles
Established in 1999, Mahalo (thanks in the Hawaiian language) makes good quality entry-level ukes (and you get lots of choices) at affordable prices. Those looking for an inexpensive uke usually start on a Mahalo (made in Chinese). You get a good quality, well-constructed, and decent-sounding ukulele that beginners will enjoy playing with.
These are quite popular in schools because of their price tag and their range of bright color instruments (Smiley Face ukes, the Surf ukes, Rock ukes), which makes them a hit with students and even other ukulele groups. Mahalo also makes pink ukuleles which are hugely popular with girls.
If you are looking for great quality, then obviously you need to shell out more, but if you are okay to own a decent-quality product for a cheap price, then these are decent ukuleles.
Lanikai Ukuleles
Lanikai brand is part of the Hohner music company (known for their quality musical instruments). Though initially, their products were towards the cheaper end, they are increasingly moving into higher-end ukes.
Lanikai Ukuleles have exceptional tonal qualities and craftsmanship to satisfy players of all skill levels. They have various products ranging from toy ukes to concert Ukuleles.
Lanikai’s LU series is quite popular among experienced players looking to expand their tonal palette or for the first-time player.
Kala Ukuleles
Kala Ukuleles have made a big impact in a relatively short time. The brand was set up by Mike Upton, who previously worked for the Hohner musical instrument company.
Kala produces a wide range of ukes — for the beginner musician as well as for the ukulele & bass professional.
Kala offers a wide range of models made from a variety of woods including Lacewood, Acacia, Koa, Mango, Mahogany, Flame/Spalted Maple, Spruce, Bocote, and many others. The best KALA ukes are made of moisture-resistant material and come with a nylon carrying case. You also get access to the KALA app which includes online lessons and voice functions.
Kala Ukuleles are a great choice for those who want a well-made, quality ukulele at a decent price. These are favored by several experienced players for their high build quality and better sound. More at kalabrand.com.
Where to Buy a Ukulele
Ukuleles are inexpensive instruments. You even get Ukes for under $20 but then they are not for serious playing, and usually good only for kids; they also feel more like cardboard than wood. If you are serious about playing the uke, it’s better to spend extra dollars and get a good quality ukulele from a reputed brand.
Beginners looking for a decent uke should ideally buy something that is price around $60-$100, which is not expensive, and you’re not likely to feel bad in case you are unable to continue learning the instrument for some reason or the other.
Most music teachers nowadays recommend the Ukulele to beginners for music lessons, because of its small size, affordability and ability to play melody as well as rhythm. You could buy a Ukulele at your nearest store, or better still, buy them online. You do find some great deals and the lowest prices when you buy ukuleles online.
Closing Thoughts
The ukulele is a compact, nice looking string instrument that also sounds equally beautiful. The ukulele has become quite a popular musical instrument in the last few years and the classic sound reminds us all of Hawaii. It serves as a good gifting option as well, especially for kids. Once you have decided to buy a ukulele, do consider buying it online, because of the better pricing and discounts that are usually available online. Whichever ukulele you choose to buy, do learn to play the instrument so that you can have a great time playing it.
Ukulele: Useful Links
- How to Tune a Ukulele
- Ukulele Strings: Reviews of the Best Ones
- Learn to play the Ukulele, a popular music instrument for beginners
- Popular Hawaiian Souvenirs
KeytarHQ editorial team includes musicians who write and review products for pianists, keyboardists, guitarists & other musicians. KeytarHQ is the best online resource for information on keyboards, pianos, synths, keytars, guitars and music gear for musicians of all abilities, ages and interests.
Hrishikesh says
in DDLJ Shahrukh is not using a ukulele, it is a mandolin