New

Whether you just picked up your very first instrument or are looking to brush up on the fundamentals, this guide will help you get started on your ukulele journey.

1. History of the Ukulele

The ukulele’s story began in 1879 when Portuguese immigrants from Madeira arrived in Hawaii aboard the SS Ravenscrag. Among the passengers were skilled cabinetmakers who brought over a traditional four-string instrument called the machete de braguinha.

Local Hawaiian artisans, including Manuel Nunes, Augusto Dias, and José do Espírito Santo, adapted the instrument using native Koa wood, giving birth to the ukulele (which roughly translates to “jumping flea”).

📅 National Play Your Ukulele Day

Did you know there’s a day dedicated entirely to playing the uke? National Play Your Ukulele Day is celebrated every year on February 2nd. It’s a great occasion to join local jams, post a video online, or introduce someone new to the instrument.

2. Types of Ukuleles & Their Tunings

Ukuleles come in several sizes and variations, each offering a distinct tone, range, and feel:

  • Sopranino: The smallest standard size with a bright, punchy tone.
    • Standard Tuning: D6 - G6 - B6 - E6 (or High C6)
  • Soprano: The traditional size responsible for the classic, iconic ukulele sound.
    • Standard Tuning: G4 - C4 - E4 - A4 (Re-entrant/High-G)
  • Concert: Slightly larger frame than the soprano, offering a fuller sound and extra room on the fretboard.
    • Standard Tuning: G4 - C4 - E4 - A4
  • Tenor: Larger body with a deeper, richer tone; popular among solo performers.
    • Standard Tuning: G4 - C4 - E4 - A4 (High-G) or G3 - C4 - E4 - A4 (Low-G)
  • Baritone: The largest traditional ukulele, tuned identically to the top four strings of a standard guitar.
    • Standard Tuning: D3 - G3 - B3 - E4
  • U-Bass (Bass Ukulele): Utilizes thick rubberized or specialty wrapped strings to achieve deep bass tones matching a standard bass guitar.
    • Standard Tuning: E1 - A1 - D2 - G2

3. Famous Ukulele Players

Legendary Virtuosos & Performers

  • Israel Kamakawiwoʻole (“IZ”) – Famous for his iconic “Over the Rainbow / What a Wonderful World” medley.
  • Jake Shimabukuro – Renowned for elevating the ukulele with modern fingerstyle technique.
  • James Hill – Multi-instrumentalist known for expanding ukulele playing styles and education.
  • Taimane Gardner – Known for dynamic live performances and genre-blending style.

Famous People Who Play

4. Basic Strumming Techniques

  • Index Finger Strum: Relax your hand. Strike downward across the strings using the back of your index fingernail, and strum upward using the soft pad of the same finger.
  • Thumb Strum: Use the pad of your thumb in a smooth downward motion across the strings for a softer, warmer tone.
  • The “Island Strum”: One of the most versatile rhythm patterns:
    • Pattern: Down - Down Up - Up Down Up (D – DU – UDU)

5. Essential Beginner Chords (Standard GCEA Tuning)

  • C Major [0-0-0-3]: Place your ring finger on the 1st (bottom) string, 3rd fret.
  • A Minor / Am [2-0-0-0]: Place your middle finger on the 4th (top) string, 2nd fret.
  • F Major [2-0-1-0]: Keep your middle finger on the 4th string (2nd fret) and place your index finger on the 2nd string (1st fret).
  • G Major [0-2-3-2]: Place index finger on the 3rd string (2nd fret), middle finger on the 1st string (2nd fret), and ring finger on the 2nd string (3rd fret).

Join the Phoenix Ukulele Group!

Looking to strum along with others? You are always welcome at the Phoenix Ukulele Group! We host friendly jam sessions, workshops, and community events for players of all skill levels.

  • Join Us In Person: Come out to one of our scheduled local jam sessions in the Phoenix area. Bring your ukulele and play along!
  • Join Us Online: Connect with our virtual community sessions, access song sheets, and participate from anywhere.