San Francisco, CA Ukulele Lessons
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Popular Ukulele Teachers near San Francisco, CA
Check out some of our most popular teachers near San Francisco, CA including Emeryville, Alameda, Brisbane, Sausalito and Daly City.
Your Guide to Living the Good Life Ukulele-Style in San Francisco
Aloha, and congratulations on deciding to begin learning to play the ukulele! San Francisco is a fantastic city for aspiring ukulele players, with a fun community and great events to check out. Before you begin your ukulele lessons in San Francisco, make sure you check out a few of these spots, and mark your calendar for the next great ukulele event!
To get started, the first thing you’ll want to do is get a ukulele to call your own. Luckily for you, there are several great places in San Francisco where you can pick out an instrument. Next time you’re in Japantown, stop by Aloha Warehouse (http://www.alohawarehouse.com/). Walking into this store is like a mini-vacation to the islands! Alongside their great selection of ukuleles, you can also purchase leis, Hawaiian clothing, food, and lots of other great stuff, too.
A wonderful San Francisco music shop to check out is Exploring Music (http://exploringmusicusa.com/). The knowledgeable staff here can help out with any questions you might have as you’re picking out the perfect ukulele for you or your child. Exploring Music also offers repairs, so if your uke ever needs an adjustment, you know it will be in good hands here. You can also visit Exploring Music to purchase more ukulele strings, music books, or other supplies.
Ready to take in some great ukulele performances? San Francisco is a great city for live music, and it is also home to the Ukulele Festival of Northern California (http://www.ukulelefestivalnorcal.org/). Every April, ukulele players from all over the world perform, sell ukulele stuff, and celebrate their love of ukulele music together. The festival started in 1994, and it is still going strong! Bring your friends and family, and enjoy a day of sweet ukulele music together.
When you’re ready to start strumming your uke in a group setting, there are a couple of wonderful groups in San Francisco that are set up to help you do just that! San Francisco Ukulele Rebellion (http://www.meetup.com/San-Francisco-Ukulele-Meetup/) is a bi-weekly Meetup group full of fun and friendly people who love to play music. Beginners and advanced players are equally welcome. What’s not to love?
If you’re looking for something a little bit different, the Ukulele Club of Chinatown (http://www.meetup.com/Ukulele-Club-of-Chinatown/) might be perfect for you. This group meets to sing songs from both American and Chinese culture as a way of celebrating the ukulele and bringing these two musical traditions together. This group meets once a month in Chinatown and tends to be a smaller crowd than San Francisco Ukulele Rebellion. It’s a great place to share music and meet new people!
What are you waiting for? Start taking ukulele lessons in San Francisco today so you can be a part of the fun! Remember, it takes time, practice, and patience to master a musical instrument. Practice playing the ukulele every day and enjoy yourself. You’ll be strumming with the best of them in no time!
About Mark B.
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I teach beginners and intermediate students how to get around on the ukulele and have fun playing songs they want to learn.
About Mark
I started playing guitar at age 9, and recorded 2 singles in the LA area by age 14. I was a music major throughout High School and College. I also learned a lot by educating myself at the Brand Library in the Los Angeles Area, which specializes in the arts. I specialized in advanced music theory and improvisational techniques.
I have enjoyed teaching music lessons since 1978.
I custom tailor a lesson plan to fit your individual needs and goals! I can teach you songs you'd like to learn instantly when I hear them on your iPod, mobile phone, cassette or CD that you bring in. I ca
Sometimes I might inject humor into the learning process to make it an enjoyable learning experience, and to help you remember the important things.
I love the satisfaction of seeing my students grow musically proficient and and seeing the JOY that it brings them. Many of my students have gone on to become professional. I am well-versed and well-equipped to teach many styles: Rock (including all sub-genres...Tribal Ambient Doom neo Punk, etc), Pop, Blues, Jazz, Alternative, Country, R& B, New Age, Ambient, Electronic, Metal (and a few plastics and wood as well).
*** Lesson Details ***
I will develop a personal lesson plan for each individual student. During your lessons, I might cover topics ranging from learning how to play, starting from the basics (if you are a beginner), to choosing music that will inspire you on your level, to improving your technique, ear-training, music reading (if that's what you'd like), reading and understanding tabs (if that's what you'd like), knowing what it is that makes certain chords and notes sound good together for writing your own music, as well as guitar maintenance and adjustments, getting a good tone, amplifier settings, effect pedals (settings & placing them in the most effective order), recording tips, and where to get a decent pizza.
*** Studio Equipment ***
Living Room or Studio, both very comfortable. Amplifiers, guitars, effects pedals, bass, ukulele, balalaika, drum set, PA system and recording equipment.
*** Travel Equipment ***
I provide guitar, bass, or ukulele and amplifier when necessary, teaching tools. The student provides their guitar and paperwork I give them.
*** Specialties ***
Teach note reading using Alfred's New Guitar course. Ear Training, Genres: Rock, Pop, Blues, Jazz, Alternative, Punk, Metal, Folk, Country, Hip Hop, Funk, R& B, New Age, Ambient.
I currently have 5 albums out under my name. My music is on a major new age compilation, and has been played on the radio in several countries, and several internet radio programs. I have played on other people's albums...some of which get major radio airplay in Europe.
Reviews
· Bass Guitar · In studio
· Guitar · In studio
· Acoustic Guitar · In home
Mark B.
About Jesse M.
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Beginner
I'm not currently taking beginner ukulele students. Please refer to my studio partner Andrew:
https://takelessons.com/profile/andrew-i5
Intermediate
Learn about common variations of the tonalities you already know and start to venture into more complex rhythm ideas like polyrhythms. Also start to build the chops to learn parts more accurately when learning songs.
Advanced
Expand into more complex polyrhythms as well as asymmetrical meters. Also expand harmony and melody to include modes and chromaticism. Push your skills through original creations or original arrangements of existing material.
About Jesse
I'm currently not taking beginner students on guitar, bass, drums, piano, or ukulele. I highly recommend my studio partners Andrew and Melissa though. Please check out their profiles for the following topics:
Guitar, Bass, Drums, Piano, and Ukulele
https://takelessons.com/profile/andrew-i5
Piano and Ukulele
https://takelessons.com/profile/melissa-m62
My Background
I've been playing with classical ensembles and rock bands since 2001. Even though I started on classical trombone and rock guitar, I have come to expand my repertoire to a variety of instruments and genres. During my time in college I performed with the University choir, orchestra, and band. I also have organized, wrote/arranged for, and performed with a variety of bands in my home state of New Mexico, as well as Japan, and the San Francisco Bay Are
Since 2006 I have been an active teacher. This profession has taken me everywhere from working with classical guitar classes in New Mexico high schools to Elementary students in Japan to a variety of private students of various musical instruments and genres everywhere I've been. Since relocating to the Bay Area in 2010, I've had the pleasure of working with lots of great students from kids to adults with a wide range of ambitions. Since 2012 I've been running my own full time studio along.
Philosophy of Learning
Lessons are generally designed to work towards giving students the tools to accomplish their goals and become increasingly independent over time. While all students will study similar fundamentals regarding technique, theory, and performance, every lesson is as different as every person. What kind of music do you want to make? I'll tell you what you need to do to get there, and help you take the steps to achieve your aspirations.
I also love to help students put together a song, record, and produce it for them so that they can have a recording to share with their friends and family.
I also hold events for my students. (Check out our pictures and videos below!)
Younger students have the "Young Musicians Showcase" every few months where individual students and band classes have a chance to perform and celebrate their accomplishments with friends and family.
Adult students occasionally have events where they get a chance to get together and play music as well.
Aside from in-studio lessons, students also have the option to sign up for online lessons via Skype.
(*Online lessons offered during different times than in-studio lessons.)
*Unfortunately due to scheduling issues, I'm not currently accepting students for bi-weekly lessons. I can do regular weekly lessons, or occasional drop-in lessons, but bi-weekly appointments make it really hard for me to give the best scheduled times to my existing weekly students. I'm sorry for the inconvenience.
My studio is equipped with:
*Multiple Music Stands
*P.A. System
*Vocal and instrument microphones
*Guitars, Basses, and a Banjo
*Two guitar amps and a bass amp
*Various percussion including a fully equipped acoustic drum set
*A Roland V-Drums electronic drum set
*An electric piano console
*A MicroKorg Synthesizer
*A Tuba, Trombone, Cornet, and Flute
*An extensive physical and virtual music library
*A recording system that students are not only welcome to use but encouraged to
*HD Webcam and condenser microphone for high fidelity online lessons via Skype
Reviews
· Japanese · Online
· Trumpet · In studio
Highly recommended.
· Japanese · Online
Jesse M.
About Judy G.
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I've been teaching ukulele for 10 years. Within the first few lessons, you'll be able to tune the instrument and play easy chords and songs. I typically use Hal Leonard books, as well as Jumping Jim for Ike and various other ukulele books and songs. I love working with students of all ages and experience levels and I can't wait to meet you!
About Judy
Thanks for checking out my lessons. My name is Judy aka Groovy Judy. I'm a guitarist, singer, songwriter and performer. I've been playing guitar for 35+ and teaching private and group lessons for 12 years. I also teach ukulele, beginning electric bass and songwriting. ***Please note - I'm located on the Peninsula, so the areas I serve are: Millbrae, Burlingame, Hillsborough, San Mateo, Belmont, San Carlos, Redwood City, Atherton & Menlo Park.***
I work with a lot of kids (as well as adults) and beginners. I'm extremely patient, and I enjoy getting brand new students up and running with proper techniques and good habits. My teaching style/philosophy is to get my students playing as soon as possible in an easy and fun way. I focus on basics such as tuning, rhythm, proper pick technique, strumming, reading guitar tab and/or sh
The styles I teach are: rock (classic, indie, punk) folk, pop, reggae/ska funk, blues, r&b, country, some finger-picking, and a bit of classical. I can teach you any song you want to play whether it's rap, rock hip-hop or a piano piece. I will find a way to do it and make it fun. :-)
My style is easy going, but not lackadaisical. I take teaching seriously and do my best to make the student feel comfortable. I give my students weekly assignments that I ask them to complete. However, if a student doesn't work on their assignment, I don't criticize or condemn them. I go over the assignment with them and gently remind them to play and work on the materials I've given.
I love teaching, music, and sharing my gifts with others.
Thanks and I look forward to working with you!
Cheers,
Judy G. aka Groovy Judy
*** Lesson Details ***
Lessons are once a week. Payment is due at the time of the lesson. Package rates are available upon availability.
*** Studio Equipment ***
2 guitar amps, a guitar stand, a music stand, mp3 player, a lava lamp and some cool rock posters
*** Travel Equipment ***
acoustic and electric guitars, music stand, small amp, mp3 player and lots of cool music ***Please note - I'm located on the Peninsula, so the areas I serve are: Millbrae, Burlingame, Hillsborough, San Mateo, Belmont, San Carlos, Redwood City, Atherton & Menlo Park.***
*** Specialties ***
I love rock, pop, folk, funk, fingerpicking and the blues. I teach all of those styles and songs by great artists such as The Beatles, Bob Dylan, Ed Sheeran, Jason Mraz, Taylor Swift, Jimi Hendrix, The Rolling Stones, Nirvana, Foo Fighters, Green Day, Sly & The Family Stone, Stevie Ray Vaughn, Eric Clapton and many more.
Reviews
· Ukulele · In studio
· Ukulele · In studio
· Ukulele · In studio
Judy G.
About Steven F.
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It is my goal as a teacher to give you the tools to play music but more importantly to create music.
My Teaching Philosophy
The Uke is a wonderful instrument that any style of music can be played on. From pop hits of today to pop hits of the 1920's, classical, jazz and beyond.
We will start by learning all of our chords, strum patterns as well as basic melodies. Then progress into finger picking and "claw-hammer" style of uke playing.
Left Hand-
Scales and arpeggios our the bedrock of music. They are the foundation of everything harmonically and melodically. We will begin with learning our major, minor and pentatonic scales and corresponding arpeggios. Once we have an understanding of those we will delve into our modes and more “exotic” scales.
Right Hand-
The right hand is our time machine. It gives us the ability to play in time and with groove and feel. We will work on rhythmic studies string crossings and practicing with a metronome. Remembering music is ...
About Steven
Steven F., a professional musician and teacher for over fifteen years, graduated cum laude with a performance degree in the upright bass from The Ohio State University where he studied and performed everything from classical to classic rock. Indeed, from the blues to bluegrass, from rock to classical, he has done it all. He currently plays with The Spikedrivers, Fox ‘n’ Hounds Bluegrass Ensemble, and Neil Jacobs' American Gypsy. He recently performed with guitar legends GE Smith and Jorma Kaukonen and David Grier.
In addition, Fox is a gifted instructor with over twelve years of experience. He incorporates music theory and technique in lessons so his students are able to go farther than just readin
Although Fox is serious about music he is able to keep lessons entertaining for students, and offers instruction in many musical genres. Many of Fox’s students have gone on to study music in college and have started successful careers in the field.
Reviews
· Ukulele · Online
Steven F.
About Robert M.
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About Robert
With over 28 years experience, I have been teaching all ages, styles, and levels. This is not a hobby or part-time job. Performing and teaching is what I do.
Reviews
· Ukulele · In studio
· Acoustic Guitar · Online
· Bass Guitar · In home
Robert M.
About Lela G.
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I have been playing ukulele for four years.
About Lela
I do not travel for in home lessons.
I am very passionate about music and believe it can serve as a gateway for many areas in life. It provides and assists with growth in many areas including: structure, motivation, creativity, communication, endurance, focus, and so much more!!
Learning an instrument is a priceless investment and is something that stays with you for life.
QUALIFICATIONS:
MUSIC AND EDUCATION:
I am 25 years old and have recently finished school for my degree in Music Therapy and completed my 900 hour (6 month) internship at a behavioral health hospital. I am currently in graduate school for mental health counseling.
I have been musically involved for thirteen years, gaining experien
PSYCHOLOGY:
I am currently pursuing a masters in mental health counseling and have a minor in psychology. I have completed a practicum at a behavioral health hospital and an internship at another behavioral health hospital.
TEACHING EXPERIENCE:
Education experience: I taught music theory for 1.5 years in Tallahassee, Florida. I am currently a certified substitute teacher in Volusia county Florida for elementary through high school and I teach flute sectionals at local middle schools and high schools. I have also been a teachers aide in two kindergarten classrooms. This job required me to teach students individually and in small groups. I also provided music groups with the kindergarteners once a week. Prior to this I have been a regular dividend in a kindergarten classroom for a semester, have lead flute choir and flute sectionals, and have volunteered often in an elementary art classroom.
TEACHING PHILOSOPHY:
My teaching style is organized yet laid-back. I am sympathetic and positive in my approach. I am understanding of your busy schedules so am very flexible although my schedule is quite limited and it may be difficult to reschedule lessons.
I have access to lesson books/textbooks and can make suggestions for you based on your needs and desires. If you are a beginning piano student you will need to purchase your own book. (It's about $6.00 on Amazon.)
Our first lessons will be based around assessing your strengths and weaknesses. From there I will create a schedule customized to your specific needs. Your input is important to me as I am always willing to be flexible based on your personal needs and preferences.
Learning music is FUN so I will make sure you are enjoying the lessons as well as getting the most out of them that you can!
PRICING INFO:
Flute, piano, and guitar lessons are $25/30 minutes and ukulele is $20/30 minutes. This is a set price. I do not haggle. I do provide sibling discounts!
Reviews
· Ukulele · Online
· Ukulele · In home
· Piano · In home
Lela G.
About Melissa M.
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Beginning ukulele students will be taught the basics in a fun but productive way. I will teach a strong foundation so a student can move forward with confidence. Lessons would be individualized to focus on areas that need the most guidance.
You will learn the basics about rhythm, harmony, and melody and how they apply to ukulele. You will become fluent in the 12 basic keys to a degree where you can play simple songs in any of them.
About Melissa
I've taught all age groups from age 2 up to retirees. My teaching experience includes one-on-one and group classes in a variety of settings. I've taught corporate classes, private lessons, small groups, and traditional classroom lessons.
We have a student-centric philosophy of learning. Lessons are generally relaxed and designed to work towards accomplishing student determined goals. While all students will study similar fundamentals regarding technique, theory, and performance, every lesson is as different as every person. Special focus on topics like music theory, self-accompaniment, composition, song writing, and home recording are available as well.
What are your personal goals? We'll tell you what you need to do to get there, and help you take the steps to achieve your aspirations.
Lessons with small children are more focused on just having fun while developing a good musical foundation, but we prefer for them to have as much personal ownership of their lesson as possible.
Reviews
· Chess · In studio
· Vocal Training · In studio
· Watercolor Painting · In home
Melissa M.
About Taylor G.
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Chords, Songs, Frets, Strumming!
About Taylor
Taylor G. received her training at California College of the Arts in 2015 where she received a degree in Sculpture, Sound, and Community Art. As an expert in her field, Taylor looks forward to helping new students achieve their goals. Taylor's teaching style is casual, relaxed, and encouraging.
Reviews
· Ukulele · In home
· Ukulele · In home
· Ukulele · In home
Taylor G.
About Andrew I.
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I will teach you proper and comfortable techniques to play the ukulele. You will learn to play in all major keys and with different rhythmic styles so you can play songs you like. I will also teach you how to read music for your instrument. My lessons are adjusted to the specific student's pace and their learning style. Ukulele is a great alternative for younger kids who want to learn guitar but may not have strong enough hands or long enough arms to play guitar comfortably. Ukulele has a lot of the same feel as a guitar but a much lighter tone and a much easier learning curve.
About Andrew
I have been training people in various fields since 2013. I am currently a junior instructor at MTS Studios in Sunnyvale CA where I teach a variety of instruments, including guitar, bass guitar, drums, piano and ukulele.
I am looking forward to helping you further your musical goals and aspirations. Feel free to send a question if you want to ask about anything before starting up.
Reviews
· Drum · In studio
· Piano · In home
· Ukulele · In studio
Andrew I.
About Brian M.
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I have been teaching ukulele for 4 years and my students have gone on to develop a deep love and relationship to music. Within the first couple of lessons you will be able to play a song or two and as time goes on you will be able to figure out any song by yourself and even write your own songs! I love working with students ages 10 and above with any level of experience!
About Brian
My experience stretches a wide range of styles including rock, jazz, folk, blues, pop, soul, funk, country, and hip-hop to name a few. I have performed with several Grammy Award winning artists as well as Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees, and am currently working on several bands and projects.
I think the world would be a better place if everyone could play music. I can work with you on songwriting and composing, improvisation, music theory, reading charts, and technical skills among other things. I look forward to meeting you and helping you become a better musician!
Reviews
· Guitar · In home
Brian M.
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Average Cost of Ukulele Lessons in San Francisco, CA
The average cost of 60-minute ukulele lessons in San Francisco is $74. While the exact cost will vary depending on the teacher, type of lesson, and your location, you should expect to spend anywhere between $49 and $90 per hour.
| 30-min | $34 |
$47 average |
$60 |
| 45-min | $55 |
$66 average |
$75 |
| 60-min | $49 |
$74 average |
$90 |
For the best experience, we typically recommend 60-minute ukulele lessons. However, students looking for a more affordable option may want to consider a shorter lesson length of 45 or 30 minutes. On average, 45-minute ukulele lessons are 11% less expensive at $66, and 30-minute lessons cost 37% less at $47.
Curious how much ukulele lessons cost in your area? Do a quick search to get local prices for the best ukulele teachers near San Francisco.
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Recent Ukulele Articles from the Blog
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How to Play 10 Songs on the Ukulele Using 4 Simple Chords
Playing the ukulele can be tons of fun, even if you're a total beginner! Music teacher Jeff S. shares an easy way to learn ten songs on the ukulele today... What You Need to Start A ukulele is a newbie-friendly, nothin'-but-fun, cool little instrument that you're never too young or old to learn. The added bonus? They're really portable and easy to afford, too. If you don't already have a uke, I'd suggest choosing among the three most common ukulele sizes as your first instrument: soprano, c … Read More