Hawaiian for “jumping flea”, the ukulele is an enchanting instrument, as versatile and melodious as a guitar. The small bodied, four stringed uke has gained in popularity in recent years, perhaps owing to gorgeous covers like “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” by Israel Kamakawiwo’ole, and “I’m Yours” by Jason Mraz. Trendy or not, the ukulele has a timeless sound. It’s enjoyable to play, portable, and relatively easy to learn. Ukuleles are also less expensive than many other instruments, making the process more accessible and less intimidating for beginners.
If either you or your child is interested in beginning instruction, it’s first important to discover the best way to learn to play ukulele. What’s best for you depends on many factors, including time constraints, your current ability, and the skill you are hoping to achieve. There are many options available today thanks to modern technology, as well as tried-and-true methods like private ukulele lessons.
Here, we’ll go into more detail about available methods to help you find the best way to learn to play ukulele for yourself or your child.
Do-It-Yourself
There are many DIY options available, including DVDs, online videos, books, and CDs, all of which offer convenience and flexibility of learning.
Pros:
- You are in complete control of what and how you learn.
- You can try many different styles of learning to see what’s right for you without spending much money.
- Options like books and CDs are inexpensive and readily available.
- You have the flexibility to breeze though what comes easily to you, or take as long as you need on more difficult skills.
Cons:
- Without an instructor, your mistakes may go uncorrected.
- There is no one to answer your questions or expand your knowledge beyond the set curriculum.
- It’s difficult to bend the material to meet your personal needs.
- Without the motivation and guidance of a teacher you may lose momentum or give up more easily.
- Without a lesson schedule you may find it takes longer to reach your goals than it would with an instructor.
Remote Instruction
Instructors are now able to offer remote video lessons to connect with students via the Internet. All that is required is a computer, Internet connection, and your instrument to learn to play ukulele from your home.
Pros:
- You don’t need to be in the same region as your teacher, and lesson times may be more flexible.
- Feedback is available immediately.
- You reap the benefits of an experienced player’s advice and guidance.
Cons:
- Lacks the hands-on help available when you see an instructor in-person.
- A two- dimensional visual may lack subtle information which could be crucial to your success.
- Ukulele-specific skills like ‘chunking’ may prove very difficult to learn without an instructor on-site.
Private Lessons
Finally, we come to traditional one-on-one tutoring with a qualified instructor. This option is more easily tailored to your abilities. Whether you’ve never played an instrument before or you are already fluent in another instrument, your teacher can help you benefit more easily from the skill set you already have.
Pros:
- Your teacher is on-site to answer questions and correct mistakes.
- You may be given opportunities to play in concert with other students.
- Building a relationship with an instructor increases motivation and the likelihood you will succeed.
- You are less likely to skimp on perfecting the basics, which will help you master your instrument.
Cons:
- Private one-on-one lessons tend to be the most expensive option.
- Lesson times are less flexible than do-it-yourself or video-chat sessions.
The method you choose to learn to play ukulele should suit you and your goals while making learning enjoyable and satisfying. With the proper instruction you can be sure to succeed. Remember, as you gain experience, you may find you need to adjust your learning method to meet your changing needs. Good luck, and enjoy mastering the delightful ukulele!
Photo by looseends
Megan L.