Hi folks - not updated my list of famous ukulele players for a long time - thought we had all bases covered, but an excellent thread on Ukulele Underground threw up a few more names!
Bill Cosby
Cybill Shepherd
Greta Garbo
Johnny Weissmuller
30 Apr 2011
T13:36
In this post I will share with you the most frequently asked questions I hear about the uke.
Q: Is that a miniature guitar?
Nope - it's a ukulele, but there are from the same Chordophone family!
Q: A ukulele? No, it can't be, I've seen George Formby playing a ukulele in his films, and his looked like a banjo.
Well, yes, he did often appear playing a banjolele, but he can also be seen playing a traditional wooden ukulele too!
Q: So, is it tuned like a guitar?
Very similarly - in fact its the same as the four highest strings on a guitar as if it were Capo'd at the fifth fret. Those four strings on a guitar are tuned DGBE, whereas on a ukulele they are tuned GCEA. See -Tuning a ukulele.
Q: Is that just a toy?
A toy??? You tell me - Jake Shimabukuro
Q: Where can I buy a ukulele?
All over the place! In fact they are hugely popular these days, but try to stick to a reputable music store with staff who understand how an instrument should be set up. If you are buying at the cheap end of the ukulele range, I think this is essential! See How to buy a ukulele
Q: (When playing my Fluke) Is that a lute?
No! (though I can see the likeness!)
Q: Do you know any songs by Tiny Tim?
Yes, I do, but I would rather not play them just now thanks!
Q: Can you plug that into an amplifier?
Well, some of my ukes can - those that have pickups installed. See - Ukulele pickups
Q: Is it easy to learn?
I tell everyone the same thing - the uke is a very easy instrument to start to learn, but like anything, requires practice and may take a lifetime to master. I believe though that I can get anyone to play a two chord song in 10 minutes.
Q: I thought they only played those in Hawaii?
Well, yes, the uke is hugely popular in Hawaii, and it has its most famous origins in those islands where it is considered the national instrument. It's history goes further back though to Portugal - see Ukulele history
Q: Why dont you play it with a plectrum?
There is nothing stopping me playing it with a pick, and many players do choose to do this, but I prefer the traditional finger strumming. See - Pick or strum?
On the whole though, the usual response from an audience hearing a ukulele is smiles on faces and positive comments saying how much they enjoyed it and what a lovely sweet sound it has.
What do you get asked the most?
Read More »
Frequently asked....
As my readers will know, I do try to play my ukulele in public as often as I can (nothing like performing in front of others to hone your skills) and it struck me that when I do so, a number of questions from those listening start recurring.
In this post I will share with you the most frequently asked questions I hear about the uke.
Q: Is that a miniature guitar?
Nope - it's a ukulele, but there are from the same Chordophone family!
Q: A ukulele? No, it can't be, I've seen George Formby playing a ukulele in his films, and his looked like a banjo.
Well, yes, he did often appear playing a banjolele, but he can also be seen playing a traditional wooden ukulele too!
Q: So, is it tuned like a guitar?
Very similarly - in fact its the same as the four highest strings on a guitar as if it were Capo'd at the fifth fret. Those four strings on a guitar are tuned DGBE, whereas on a ukulele they are tuned GCEA. See -Tuning a ukulele.
Q: Is that just a toy?
A toy??? You tell me - Jake Shimabukuro
Q: Where can I buy a ukulele?
All over the place! In fact they are hugely popular these days, but try to stick to a reputable music store with staff who understand how an instrument should be set up. If you are buying at the cheap end of the ukulele range, I think this is essential! See How to buy a ukulele
Q: (When playing my Fluke) Is that a lute?
No! (though I can see the likeness!)
Q: Do you know any songs by Tiny Tim?
Yes, I do, but I would rather not play them just now thanks!
Q: Can you plug that into an amplifier?
Well, some of my ukes can - those that have pickups installed. See - Ukulele pickups
Q: Is it easy to learn?
I tell everyone the same thing - the uke is a very easy instrument to start to learn, but like anything, requires practice and may take a lifetime to master. I believe though that I can get anyone to play a two chord song in 10 minutes.
Q: I thought they only played those in Hawaii?
Well, yes, the uke is hugely popular in Hawaii, and it has its most famous origins in those islands where it is considered the national instrument. It's history goes further back though to Portugal - see Ukulele history
Q: Why dont you play it with a plectrum?
There is nothing stopping me playing it with a pick, and many players do choose to do this, but I prefer the traditional finger strumming. See - Pick or strum?
On the whole though, the usual response from an audience hearing a ukulele is smiles on faces and positive comments saying how much they enjoyed it and what a lovely sweet sound it has.
What do you get asked the most?
28 Apr 2011
28 Apr 2011T09:58
There appeared to be a common thread towards the simpler, nicer things in life. Don't get me wrong, I am no luddite, I blog, am a gadget freak and love nothing more than watching a movie on a nice big TV, but in other areas I seem to differ wildly! Have a read below.
1. As well as playing ukulele, I play guitar and harmonica. Whilst I own a very nice Fender Stratocaster, I tend to play mostly acoustic guitar (I play a Taylor) and like impromptu gigging in pub beer gardens! I also have a guilty pleasure of adoring Country music and have been known to play Banjo and Mandolin.
2. Drinks wise - real cask beer and real cider. In fact I also brew my own. Love good malt Whisky. Think Euro-fizz cheap lager is despicable.
3. We grow our own and also run an allotment. The blackberries, blackcurrants and tayberries in the garden will be mostly used to make flavoured gins or vodkas for Christmas time. The crabapples will be added to a cider for flavour.
4. I ride a traditionally made, lugged bicycle (A Pashley, you can read more about here -Pashley Roadster review) which is big and heavy, but a joy to ride.
5. I have a humidor upstairs with a number of very nice Cuban cigars sleeping and ageing quietly.
6. Hats of choice are either a pure wool tweed cap or in the worst weather a fur felt Akubra.
7. Whilst I have an extensive CD collection, I am most happy playing vinyl records on a turntable. I still buy vinyl more than CD, and have been known to buy new releases on both CD and vinyl.
8. I like astronomy and photography.
9. My favourite films tend to be in the old classic category or are French or Spanish.
10. I prefer my tea made with real tea leaves in a pot.
11. Whilst I am a huge football fan, my ideal way of relaxing watching sport is a full day in the sun watching a Cricket match.
12. I shave with a double edged safety razor and despise those multi blade cartridges that you need to speak to the bank manager just to afford to buy.
13. We own a Labrador and a Beagle.
14. My idea of a music festival is something like the Fairport Convention Cropredy gathering, and going with my children.
15. I have a hankering for an old type 1 Land Rover just for tinkering with and creating oil spills on the driveway.
16. I prefer to buy meat, fish and vegetables from the butcher, fishmonger and grocer than in plastic pots at a Supermarket. (Believe me, in the UK, sadly, that has become the exception to the rule in most towns).
17. For holidays, I would much prefer to go exploring local villages and towns than sit on the beach. Eat where the locals eat.
So, what is the point of all this? Well I do frequent a lot of internet resources connected with the ukulele and music generally (forums and the like) and I have noticed that in many other ukulele players I find matches with far more of the above than you would expect. So thought it was interesting. How about you - what are your other likes besides the ukulele?
Read More »
Ukulele connections
I was thinking the other day about other things I like in life (perhaps I am getting old) and started to figure whether there were any connections in the ukulele playing world.
There appeared to be a common thread towards the simpler, nicer things in life. Don't get me wrong, I am no luddite, I blog, am a gadget freak and love nothing more than watching a movie on a nice big TV, but in other areas I seem to differ wildly! Have a read below.
1. As well as playing ukulele, I play guitar and harmonica. Whilst I own a very nice Fender Stratocaster, I tend to play mostly acoustic guitar (I play a Taylor) and like impromptu gigging in pub beer gardens! I also have a guilty pleasure of adoring Country music and have been known to play Banjo and Mandolin.
2. Drinks wise - real cask beer and real cider. In fact I also brew my own. Love good malt Whisky. Think Euro-fizz cheap lager is despicable.
3. We grow our own and also run an allotment. The blackberries, blackcurrants and tayberries in the garden will be mostly used to make flavoured gins or vodkas for Christmas time. The crabapples will be added to a cider for flavour.
4. I ride a traditionally made, lugged bicycle (A Pashley, you can read more about here -Pashley Roadster review) which is big and heavy, but a joy to ride.
5. I have a humidor upstairs with a number of very nice Cuban cigars sleeping and ageing quietly.
6. Hats of choice are either a pure wool tweed cap or in the worst weather a fur felt Akubra.
7. Whilst I have an extensive CD collection, I am most happy playing vinyl records on a turntable. I still buy vinyl more than CD, and have been known to buy new releases on both CD and vinyl.
8. I like astronomy and photography.
9. My favourite films tend to be in the old classic category or are French or Spanish.
10. I prefer my tea made with real tea leaves in a pot.
11. Whilst I am a huge football fan, my ideal way of relaxing watching sport is a full day in the sun watching a Cricket match.
12. I shave with a double edged safety razor and despise those multi blade cartridges that you need to speak to the bank manager just to afford to buy.
13. We own a Labrador and a Beagle.
14. My idea of a music festival is something like the Fairport Convention Cropredy gathering, and going with my children.
15. I have a hankering for an old type 1 Land Rover just for tinkering with and creating oil spills on the driveway.
16. I prefer to buy meat, fish and vegetables from the butcher, fishmonger and grocer than in plastic pots at a Supermarket. (Believe me, in the UK, sadly, that has become the exception to the rule in most towns).
17. For holidays, I would much prefer to go exploring local villages and towns than sit on the beach. Eat where the locals eat.
So, what is the point of all this? Well I do frequent a lot of internet resources connected with the ukulele and music generally (forums and the like) and I have noticed that in many other ukulele players I find matches with far more of the above than you would expect. So thought it was interesting. How about you - what are your other likes besides the ukulele?
25 Apr 2011
25 Apr 2011T11:44
Everybody's Talking - Harry Nilsson
Hey Good Looking - Hank Williams
9 to 5 - Dolly Parton
The Weight - The Band
No Woman No Cry - Bob Marley
Sittin On The Dock Of The Bay - Otis Redding
Accentuate The Positive
Maggie Mae - Rod Stewart
I Wanna Be Like You
Valerie - The Zutons
In The Summertime - Mungo Jerry
Black Horse and The Cherry Tree - KT Tunstall
African Skies - Paul Simon
Born To Run - Bruce Springsteen
Come Up And See Me - Steve Harley
Lady Madonna - Beatles
A Pair Of Brown Eyes - The Pogues
Delilah - Tom Jones
Sloop John B - Beach Boys
Brown Eyed Girl - Van Morrisson
Down Under - Men At Work
Hello Marylou - Creedence Clearwater Revival
Orange Blossom Special - Johnny Cash
What A Wonderful World - Sam Cooke
Fat Bottomed Girls - Queen
Three Little Birds - Bob Marley
Quite a set - much beer drunk! I really must get around to recording these gigs.
Read More »
Ukulele gig report - more impromptu strumming
Well, a friend and I yesterday afternoon entertained a pub beer garden with two ukes (one Fluke and one Flea) whilst sat in the gorgeous UK sunshine. Lot's of interest in the ukulele (including one chap who asked whether my Fluke was a Lute... - but as always, by way of inspiration to beginner players, I provide our set list below.
Everybody's Talking - Harry Nilsson
Hey Good Looking - Hank Williams
9 to 5 - Dolly Parton
The Weight - The Band
No Woman No Cry - Bob Marley
Sittin On The Dock Of The Bay - Otis Redding
Accentuate The Positive
Maggie Mae - Rod Stewart
I Wanna Be Like You
Valerie - The Zutons
In The Summertime - Mungo Jerry
Black Horse and The Cherry Tree - KT Tunstall
African Skies - Paul Simon
Born To Run - Bruce Springsteen
Come Up And See Me - Steve Harley
Lady Madonna - Beatles
A Pair Of Brown Eyes - The Pogues
Delilah - Tom Jones
Sloop John B - Beach Boys
Brown Eyed Girl - Van Morrisson
Down Under - Men At Work
Hello Marylou - Creedence Clearwater Revival
Orange Blossom Special - Johnny Cash
What A Wonderful World - Sam Cooke
Fat Bottomed Girls - Queen
Three Little Birds - Bob Marley
Quite a set - much beer drunk! I really must get around to recording these gigs.
22 Apr 2011
22 Apr 2011T10:49
Ukulele Beginners - Basic Ukulele Theory - part 4 - 7th chords
In our last guide HERE we looked at Minor Chords, and in this post we turn to 7th Chords.
A 7th chord is shown on chord sheets as A7, C7 G7 etc, and are an important part of adding more feel to your music playing.
If you remember our basic chord theory for the major chords, we learned that a major chord was made up of the root, third and 5th notes from the major scale of the chord you are forming. A major 7th chord simply adds another note that is a third above the root note.
On a ukulele this is usually achieved by taking the higher of the root notes and dropping it down two half tones.
If we take the C chord which is fingered 0003 we have a C note on the open third string, and also a C note on the 1st string that you have fingered at the third fret. This is also the higher of the two C notes in the chord, so if we drop that down to half tones (ie two frets) the chord fingering becomes 0001, and that plays you a C7!
Let's try that with the A chord, which is fingered 2100. The two A notes we have created in that chord are on the 4th string at the second fret and the open 1st string which is naturally tuned to A. The highest note on a re-entrant tuned uke is actually the 4th string at the 2nd fret, so we drop that down two half tones and that take you to the nut. Therefore we play that open and the fingering becomes 0100 - which is an A7 chord.
Let's turn to G7. A standard G chord is fingered 0232. In that chord we have a G on the 4th string, and a G on the 2nd string at the 3rd fret. If we drop that G on the second string down two half tones we get a G7 and the fingering would be 0212.
Try it with the other major chords!
Read More »
A 7th chord is shown on chord sheets as A7, C7 G7 etc, and are an important part of adding more feel to your music playing.
If you remember our basic chord theory for the major chords, we learned that a major chord was made up of the root, third and 5th notes from the major scale of the chord you are forming. A major 7th chord simply adds another note that is a third above the root note.
On a ukulele this is usually achieved by taking the higher of the root notes and dropping it down two half tones.
If we take the C chord which is fingered 0003 we have a C note on the open third string, and also a C note on the 1st string that you have fingered at the third fret. This is also the higher of the two C notes in the chord, so if we drop that down to half tones (ie two frets) the chord fingering becomes 0001, and that plays you a C7!
Let's try that with the A chord, which is fingered 2100. The two A notes we have created in that chord are on the 4th string at the second fret and the open 1st string which is naturally tuned to A. The highest note on a re-entrant tuned uke is actually the 4th string at the 2nd fret, so we drop that down two half tones and that take you to the nut. Therefore we play that open and the fingering becomes 0100 - which is an A7 chord.
Let's turn to G7. A standard G chord is fingered 0232. In that chord we have a G on the 4th string, and a G on the 2nd string at the 3rd fret. If we drop that G on the second string down two half tones we get a G7 and the fingering would be 0212.
Try it with the other major chords!
20 Apr 2011
20 Apr 2011T19:36
The book is available in all the common ebook formats and can be found at SMASHWORDS
All you have to do is enter the voucher code BS47B at the checkout to claim your discount! The offer ends on 12 May 2011.
Sadly, Amazon dont allow such discounts, but you can also get the book there on the Kindle store (sorry Kindlers!) though the pdf version will work on the Kindle.
Hope you enjoy - if you were wavering - grab some money off
Read More »
Attention Smashwords customers - money off my ukulele book!
For another limited time I am running a voucher offer to give you 32% off my ukulele book when bought at Smashwords!
All you have to do is enter the voucher code BS47B at the checkout to claim your discount! The offer ends on 12 May 2011.
Sadly, Amazon dont allow such discounts, but you can also get the book there on the Kindle store (sorry Kindlers!) though the pdf version will work on the Kindle.
Hope you enjoy - if you were wavering - grab some money off
19 Apr 2011
19 Apr 2011T18:51
Inlay
The name given to the fret markers on the ukulele fingerboard. Most commonly simply white dots, but often can be styled into other shapes or patterns on more expensive instruments. Beginner instrument inlays are usually made of plastic, but more expensive ukuleles have inlays made of mother of pearl or a similar substance.
Interval
The distance between two notes.
Intonation
The ability of your instrument to play and hold the correct note. This usually refers to the accuracy of the ukuleles construction, and the ability for each fret, when fretted to sound the correct note for their position (ie not either sharp or flat). A bad setup or a badly made instrument will provide poor intonation, and a bad sound. The simplest check if you have no tuner to hand is that each string played open should sound the same note one octave higher when played at the 12th fret.
Inversion
Structuring a chord with a note other than the root as the lowest note.
And you can find the rest of the A-Z, from A to H at the end of the links on my Beginners tips page
Read More »
Ukulele A-Z - I is for....
Continuing our series of the ukulele A to Z, this time the letter I.
Inlay
The name given to the fret markers on the ukulele fingerboard. Most commonly simply white dots, but often can be styled into other shapes or patterns on more expensive instruments. Beginner instrument inlays are usually made of plastic, but more expensive ukuleles have inlays made of mother of pearl or a similar substance.
Interval
The distance between two notes.
Intonation
The ability of your instrument to play and hold the correct note. This usually refers to the accuracy of the ukuleles construction, and the ability for each fret, when fretted to sound the correct note for their position (ie not either sharp or flat). A bad setup or a badly made instrument will provide poor intonation, and a bad sound. The simplest check if you have no tuner to hand is that each string played open should sound the same note one octave higher when played at the 12th fret.
Inversion
Structuring a chord with a note other than the root as the lowest note.
And you can find the rest of the A-Z, from A to H at the end of the links on my Beginners tips page
18 Apr 2011
18 Apr 2011T19:31
You can find the competition on this Competition page and I hope you like the rules - just post on that thread your three favourite uke songs to play - the list is already growing and growing and I hope is providing much needed inspiration for new ukulele players.
Oh, and I just realised, whilst I cant enter myself, I havent told you my free favourite songs to play on the ukulele!
1. Five Foot Two
2. Maggie Mae - Rod Stewart
3. Watching The Detectives - Elvis Costello
What are yours!? But make sure you put your comments on the competition page to be valid!! NOT This page!
Read More »
Competition reminder! Win a ukulele strap!
I'm conscious that for many it has been half term holiday time, so would hate for you to have missed my latest competition to win a superb strap from the fabulous, and highly regarded Ukestar Straps
Oh, and I just realised, whilst I cant enter myself, I havent told you my free favourite songs to play on the ukulele!
1. Five Foot Two
2. Maggie Mae - Rod Stewart
3. Watching The Detectives - Elvis Costello
What are yours!? But make sure you put your comments on the competition page to be valid!! NOT This page!
16 Apr 2011
16 Apr 2011T19:29
It's a nice blog with some very helpful and interesting items on it that will appeal to any uker - give them a look and a follow to show your support!
ukulelia: Barry Maz's New Book: "Liverpudlian uke blogger Barry Maz has a new book out. It's called What Ukulele Players Really Want to Know and it's written especially for ..."
Read More »
ukulelia: Barry Maz's New Book
The very wonderful guys at Ukulelia have picked up on my blog and kindly written about it.
It's a nice blog with some very helpful and interesting items on it that will appeal to any uker - give them a look and a follow to show your support!
T13:20
Best of all, at the present time, B and H are very very kindly donating all proceeds from the sale of their CD to the Japanese Red Cross Appeal set up to help those many thousands so dreadfully affected by the recent Earthquake and Tsunami.
You can find out more about Bosko & Honey on their Bosko and Honey website which tells the story of the safari, has many videos of their performances, and of course has a link in which you can buy the CD.
Track listing below - thanks guys! I won't pick my favourites as that wouldn't be fair (but I do have them!)
Read More »
Bosko & Honey present - Ukulele Safari Volume 1 - REVIEW
As promised, it is about time I shared my review of the Bosko and Honey CD of their Ukulele Safari. My CD arrived last week (along with some cool B and H stickers!) and has been on heavy rotation ever since
The CD is a compilation of ukulele tracks collected by Bosko and Honey and is a wonderful idea. Bosko and Honey are a non professional ukulele duo based in Australia, consisting of the Australian Daniel "Bosko" Siddhartha and Yukie Toda (Honey) from Japan. They took their name from an old Looney Tunes cartoon!
Over 11 months in 2008, they toured round the world with their ukuleles, visiting lots of countries in Europe, and the US, and Japan. Along the way they recorded songs and interviewers with uke players around the globe and started featuring videos of the recordings on their website and YouTube. The CD is a collection of those songs put together and it is certainly a real treat!
What first struck me about the CD is the quality of the production - not just the quality of the recordings themselves, (which are great) but also the packaging and design, provided by the wonderful Shelley Rickey. (who also appears on the CD in her uke outfit "The Uke Box" . The CD cover is great and it comes with a full colour booklet providing a short bio of each of the artists on the CD. An amateur CD this is NOT!
There is also real variety here across the 22 tracks - we have everything from folk to punk, sung in a variety of languages and the constant change in musical style is a joy to listen to. Some of the talent on display here is quite staggering. Those who are more seasoned in the world of ukulele will recognise many of the names on this disc, and in fact you may have come across some of them already on the various uke forums out there, on twitter or on Facebook. If you are new to ukulele then this CD is certainly worth your time just to show you the variety that can be brought out of this great little instrument. Of course, Bosko and Honey play on the CD too!
1. Bosko and Honey - Road Trip
2. Peter Madcap Ruth - Red Winged Blackbird
3. Sumakichan - Mamorunjah Theme Song
4. Tim Sweeney - Back To You
5. Gerald Ross - Lemon Peel Rag
6. Daisy Dobuyuki - Ukulele Daddy
7. The Windy City Islanders - We're Having A Luau
8. Fabio KoRyu Calabro - Ukustrocca Filalele
9. Tarasuna - Kaze ga naku
10. John Pak - Ukulele Safari
11. Ukulelezaza - Lilli K
12. Max The Ukulele Punk Rocker - Please Stay
13. Shigeto - Kokyu
14. Gensblue (with Bosko and Honey) - Earthquake
15. Ukulele Igor - Carelian Stomp
16. Taka and Nya Mi - Chiisana te
17. Yannick Van Loo - Mots de tetes
18. Jon Prown - Thirty Below
19. Yalego - In The Pines
20. Happy Hoppy - Kodomo Blues
21. The Uke Box - Firefly Crown
22. T Yoshimura - Soul Traveller
15 Apr 2011
15 Apr 2011T16:36
UOGB - The Good The Bad & The Ugly
I realised it's been quite a while since I shared with my readers more of the wonderful Ukulele Orchestra Of Great Britain - I am well overdue!
This is their stunningly good version of the theme tune to The Good The Bad & The Ugly (you read that right)
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This is their stunningly good version of the theme tune to The Good The Bad & The Ugly (you read that right)
T16:29
To download - click this link - Barnes & Noble Nook Store - What Ukulele Players Really Want To Know
Read More »
Got a Nook? Want my book?
Don't own an Amazon Kindle but have the very popular Nook ereader instead? Then I am pleased to announce that my ukulele beginners books is now available on the Nook store!
To download - click this link - Barnes & Noble Nook Store - What Ukulele Players Really Want To Know
T09:50
I will be posting up a full review of the CD in due course, but to whet your appetite, I do love the many many namechecks in this video from John Pak.
This song features on the CD and really tells the story of the Ukulele Safari
Read More »
John Pak - Ukulele Safari
Well, my Bosko & Honey Ukulele Safari CD arrived which I am enjoying a lot - it's a great compilation CD, which, for a while, the pair are donating all proceeds to the Japan Red Cross Appeal.
I will be posting up a full review of the CD in due course, but to whet your appetite, I do love the many many namechecks in this video from John Pak.
This song features on the CD and really tells the story of the Ukulele Safari
13 Apr 2011
13 Apr 2011T11:26
Ukulele ebook now available in print!
I had a few comments from readers of the blog who don't own Kindles or other ereaders asking about a paper copy of the book. I am pleased to let you know that you CAN now get a paper copy of What Ukulele Players Really Want To Know!
The downside is that, as this is a physical copy, the price is more than the ebook (naturally) but have set it as low as the printer will allow. It's a standard paperback size, with a glossy cover and runs to 145 pages.
You can get the book at The Createspace bookstore and I am really pleased to say, you can get it on Amazon.com also - WOW - here - Ukulele book paperback - AMAZON
Enjoy! Put one on your bookshelf!
Read More »
The downside is that, as this is a physical copy, the price is more than the ebook (naturally) but have set it as low as the printer will allow. It's a standard paperback size, with a glossy cover and runs to 145 pages.
You can get the book at The Createspace bookstore and I am really pleased to say, you can get it on Amazon.com also - WOW - here - Ukulele book paperback - AMAZON
Enjoy! Put one on your bookshelf!
T10:42
Ukulele A-Z - G and H is for...
Gig /Gigging
Playing a live show
Gig Bag
A soft padded case for the ukulele which is not rigid, and designed to prevent scuffs and scratches when carrying the uke
Grain
The direction or layout of the wood cells in the woods used in the ukulele. An attractive grain pattern on the top of a uke is often considered desirable.
Hammer-On
The action of "hammering down" a fretting finger on to a higher fret of a string that has just been plucked, creating a sudden change up in the note without plucking it again
Hardware
The term used to describe the parts on a ukulele, most commonly the strap buttons, any electronics, the tuners etc.
Harmony
Two or more notes sounding simultaneously.
Headstock
The flat piece of wood at the end of the neck that holds the tuning pegs
Heel
The base part of the neck that widens as it attaches to the ukulele body
Read More »
Playing a live show
Gig Bag
A soft padded case for the ukulele which is not rigid, and designed to prevent scuffs and scratches when carrying the uke
Grain
The direction or layout of the wood cells in the woods used in the ukulele. An attractive grain pattern on the top of a uke is often considered desirable.
Hammer-On
The action of "hammering down" a fretting finger on to a higher fret of a string that has just been plucked, creating a sudden change up in the note without plucking it again
Hardware
The term used to describe the parts on a ukulele, most commonly the strap buttons, any electronics, the tuners etc.
Harmony
Two or more notes sounding simultaneously.
Headstock
The flat piece of wood at the end of the neck that holds the tuning pegs
Heel
The base part of the neck that widens as it attaches to the ukulele body
12 Apr 2011
12 Apr 2011T13:24
You can read my review of the strap HERE which as you can see is a product I really rather like! They are very well made, soft and wonderful! I will be giving away a strap in medium (standard) size in the Argyle Corduroy pattern as you saw in the review.
So, what do you have to do to enter?
Well, I want this blog to be an inspiration for new players, and part of them getting inspiration is getting ideas for songs to try out. I therefore want you to comment telling me your top 3 favourite songs you play on the uke. That's all you have to do to enter, and I will put all the eligible entries in a hat on the closing date and draw a winner at random! Make sure your entry includes your name and is not posted using the blogger "anonymous" option or I wont be able to enter you or contact you! The best way is to follow this blog (scroll down on the right) and register with Google, though thats not absolutely essential!
Competition closes on 11 May 5.00pm UK time - I will announce the winner on here and on twitter and Ukulele Underground - I need (obviously) to be able to get in touch with you to get your postal address so if you win, you can email me through the blog (see the contact me page above).
Good luck everyone, and lets try to get a big list of uke songs going to provide that useful inspiration to others!
To see more of the Ukestar strap range - visit - Ukestar straps shop
RULES (IMPORTANT)!
Read More »
COMPETITION! - Win a Ukestar ukulele strap!
COMPETITION CLOSED - CHECK BACK ON THE BLOG FOR MORE COMPETITIONS SOON!
Ok folks - lets get straight into a new competition! With many thanks to Hannah at Ukestar straps, I have one of her creations available for you to win!
You can read my review of the strap HERE which as you can see is a product I really rather like! They are very well made, soft and wonderful! I will be giving away a strap in medium (standard) size in the Argyle Corduroy pattern as you saw in the review.
So, what do you have to do to enter?
Well, I want this blog to be an inspiration for new players, and part of them getting inspiration is getting ideas for songs to try out. I therefore want you to comment telling me your top 3 favourite songs you play on the uke. That's all you have to do to enter, and I will put all the eligible entries in a hat on the closing date and draw a winner at random! Make sure your entry includes your name and is not posted using the blogger "anonymous" option or I wont be able to enter you or contact you! The best way is to follow this blog (scroll down on the right) and register with Google, though thats not absolutely essential!
Competition closes on 11 May 5.00pm UK time - I will announce the winner on here and on twitter and Ukulele Underground - I need (obviously) to be able to get in touch with you to get your postal address so if you win, you can email me through the blog (see the contact me page above).
Good luck everyone, and lets try to get a big list of uke songs going to provide that useful inspiration to others!
To see more of the Ukestar strap range - visit - Ukestar straps shop
RULES (IMPORTANT)!
1. Competition starts on 12 April 1400 GMT and ends at 5.00pm GMT on 11 May 2011
2. To be eligible for the prize draw, you must post a comment on this thread stating your three favourite songs to play on the ukulele
3. I reserve the right to reject comments that I deem in any way offensive ( I have some younger readers!) My decision on this is final.
4. On draw day, I will put all eligible entries in a hat and draw a winner. Only those comments that I have published will be eligible for the competition. My decision on the winner is final and no correspondence will be entered into.
5. The winner will be announced within 7 days of the draw day, and will be announced on this site. The winner will need to make contact with me to collect the prize
6. Winner will need to provide valid postal address for the item to be posted
7. In the event the winner does not respond to the request for address within 14 days, I will pick draw another name from the hat.
8. No responsibility is held for failure with the postal service, and no replacement will be offered. This prize has no alternative cash value.
9. Item will be posted standard post within 14 days of confirmation of winners address, depending on where you are you may need to sign for it.
10. No purchase necessary
11. posting a comment is not proof that I have received your entry. No responsibility can be accepted for entries that are lost or delayed, or which are not received for any reason
12. The prize in not transferable to another person
10 Apr 2011
10 Apr 2011T19:45
Ukulele ebook winners!
Hello folks - just put the entry names into a hat, and we have the following winners who get a free copy of my ebook!
I will message you via twitter and you will need to get back to me with an email address (via twitter) and let me know which format book you want.
Well done to
@MinerWilly83
@dprovines
@hopkid
@indie_elf
@gracehsu
Read More »
I will message you via twitter and you will need to get back to me with an email address (via twitter) and let me know which format book you want.
Well done to
@MinerWilly83
@dprovines
@hopkid
@indie_elf
@gracehsu
9 Apr 2011
9 Apr 2011T12:05
Cursley ukes are built to order, specially commissioned pieces, made by hand in the UK and are sublime.
See for yourself - you can follow Cursley Ukes on Twitter - @cursleyukuleles
Read More »
Cursley Ukuleles - simply stunning
I just had to share these pictures with you - the completed Butterfly tenor made from cherry wood by the wonderful Cursley Ukuleles
Cursley ukes are built to order, specially commissioned pieces, made by hand in the UK and are sublime.
All photos courtesy of and copyright Cursley Ukuleles
It's been a joy to follow Cursley Ukes on twitter and see a series of pictures as this ukulele developed.
8 Apr 2011
8 Apr 2011T11:20
First off, this isn't a full strap, its more of a support. The design is typical of other such supports, in that you loop the adjustable band over your neck, and at one end there is a padded hook that you run under the instrument and latch on to the soundhole as shown below with my battered looking Flea Ukulele. Because of the design, you need no strap buttons on your instrument for this to work.
What I really like about the Ukestar strap is the quality of it. Hannah offers the strap in a huge range of fabrics (17 of them) and the one shown is called Argyle Corduroy and looks very funky. There are also some fabulous Hawaiian type prints, but if you want plain, then that is catered for too. The fabric is thick and of very good quality with a real soft finish to it - no scuffs and rubbing on the neck with this strap! The buckles for adjustment are also substantial and the hook for attaching to the uke is nicely padded to protect the finish.
Attached to the strap when it arrives is a nice Ukestar logo card, which on opening provides the fitting instructions.
The strap comes in 4 sizes - Child (xtra small), Small, Medium and Large and her webstore has sizing instructions to make sure you get the right one.
I have tried the strap on all of my ukes, and it really does provide for a nice playing experience. You still need to hold the uke, but it acts like it is floating on your chest. It really makes fretting, particularly more complex chord shapes, much much easier.
All in all a very nice product. Sure, there are other straps on the market, but this one oozes quality, and the range of colours is great. Besides that, I think it's great to support new independent businesses rather than the faceless corporations!
You can order a Ukestar strap from Hannah on her page here - Ukestar straps, and there is also a Facebook page here - Ukestar Facebook page
Thanks Hannah - and good luck with them!
AND - keep an eye on this blog, as I will be running a competition shortly to win a Ukestar strap like the one in the photos above!
Read More »
Ukestar ukulele strap - REVIEW
I like it when people create new products for themselves and market them, so was delighted to be recently asked to review a new Ukulele strap by Hannah Barrell of Ukestar straps.
First off, this isn't a full strap, its more of a support. The design is typical of other such supports, in that you loop the adjustable band over your neck, and at one end there is a padded hook that you run under the instrument and latch on to the soundhole as shown below with my battered looking Flea Ukulele. Because of the design, you need no strap buttons on your instrument for this to work.
The strap is fully adjustable with a standard strap buckle in order for you to get the uke positioned just where you want it.
I also very much like the branding, and each strap is fitted with a nice metal star badge, rather like a Sherriffs star - that faces front when you wear it - very cool
Attached to the strap when it arrives is a nice Ukestar logo card, which on opening provides the fitting instructions.
The strap comes in 4 sizes - Child (xtra small), Small, Medium and Large and her webstore has sizing instructions to make sure you get the right one.
I have tried the strap on all of my ukes, and it really does provide for a nice playing experience. You still need to hold the uke, but it acts like it is floating on your chest. It really makes fretting, particularly more complex chord shapes, much much easier.
All in all a very nice product. Sure, there are other straps on the market, but this one oozes quality, and the range of colours is great. Besides that, I think it's great to support new independent businesses rather than the faceless corporations!
You can order a Ukestar strap from Hannah on her page here - Ukestar straps, and there is also a Facebook page here - Ukestar Facebook page
Thanks Hannah - and good luck with them!
AND - keep an eye on this blog, as I will be running a competition shortly to win a Ukestar strap like the one in the photos above!
7 Apr 2011
7 Apr 2011T20:27
Free prize draw - win a copy of my ukulele ebook!
Summer is here - time to be happy, so how about a free prize draw to win a copy of my ebook "What Ukulele Players Really Want To Know". In fact I am giving away five copies (yes, five!) to those who enter.
All you have to do is use Twitter (its easy and takes two seconds to register) and do the following
Tweet or Re-Tweet the following message exactly.
I want to win a free #ukulele ebook by @bazmaz http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/37988
It's that simple!
The draw will end at 5pm UK time on Sunday 10th April, and I will then draw randomly 5 names who tweeted and contact you via twitter and announce on here. I will then need an email address from you to send the file (which will be used for nothing else) and you can choose from the following formats
EPUB
PDF
RTF
LRF (Sony Format)
PalmDoc (PDB)
Or, Plain text (yuk)
Good luck!
RULES (IMPORTANT)!
Read More »
THIS COMPETITION IS NOW CLOSED - KEEP READING GOT A UKULELE FOR MORE GIVEAWAYS!
All you have to do is use Twitter (its easy and takes two seconds to register) and do the following
Tweet or Re-Tweet the following message exactly.
I want to win a free #ukulele ebook by @bazmaz http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/37988
It's that simple!
The draw will end at 5pm UK time on Sunday 10th April, and I will then draw randomly 5 names who tweeted and contact you via twitter and announce on here. I will then need an email address from you to send the file (which will be used for nothing else) and you can choose from the following formats
EPUB
RTF
LRF (Sony Format)
PalmDoc (PDB)
Or, Plain text (yuk)
Good luck!
RULES (IMPORTANT)!
1. Competition ends at 5.00pm UK time on 10 April 2011
2. To be eligible for the prize draw, you must post the message above on Twitter and provide a valid email if you win to receive prize
3. On draw day, I will randomly pick 5 winners and contact them by twitter.
5. The winner will be announced within 7 days of the draw day, on this website
6. No purchase necessary
7. posting a tweet is not proof that I have received your entry. No responsibility can be accepted for entries that are lost or delayed, or which are not received for any reason
8. The prize in not transferable to another person
T10:16
Proof of the paper version of my book arrives!
Wow - my proof copy of the paperback version of What Ukulele Players Really Want To Know has arrived and it looks great!
Will soon be available to buy online.
Read More »
Will soon be available to buy online.
T09:51
Eddie Vedder - ukulele album update
More news on the Eddie Vedder (of Pearl Jam) Ukulele album.
STOP PRESS - before you read on - the album has since been released, and you can read my full review of it HERE!
As unlikely as it sounds for a rock hero to be doing this, Eddie has been playing the uke for many years, and the sample track and live stuff I have heard sounds really promising. (My last post with his launch single Longing To Belong is HERE )
Here is a live version of another track from the forthcoming album called Satellite
The tracklisting is rumoured to be
01 Can’t Keep
02 Sleeping by Myself
03 Without You
04 More Than You Know
05 Goodbye
06 Broken Heart
07 Satellite
08 Longing to Belong
09 Hey Fahkah
10 You’re True
11 Light Today
12 Sleepless Nights [ft. Glen Hansard]
13 Once in Awhile
14 Waving Palms
15 Tonight You Belong to Me [ft. Cat Power]
16 Dream a Little Dream
WOW! Tonight You Belong To Me with Cat Power!!
Releases on 31 May 2011.
Read More »
STOP PRESS - before you read on - the album has since been released, and you can read my full review of it HERE!
As unlikely as it sounds for a rock hero to be doing this, Eddie has been playing the uke for many years, and the sample track and live stuff I have heard sounds really promising. (My last post with his launch single Longing To Belong is HERE )
Here is a live version of another track from the forthcoming album called Satellite
The tracklisting is rumoured to be
01 Can’t Keep
02 Sleeping by Myself
03 Without You
04 More Than You Know
05 Goodbye
06 Broken Heart
07 Satellite
08 Longing to Belong
09 Hey Fahkah
10 You’re True
11 Light Today
12 Sleepless Nights [ft. Glen Hansard]
13 Once in Awhile
14 Waving Palms
15 Tonight You Belong to Me [ft. Cat Power]
16 Dream a Little Dream
WOW! Tonight You Belong To Me with Cat Power!!
Releases on 31 May 2011.
5 Apr 2011
5 Apr 2011T20:58
Figure
The distinctive pattern produced by a wood's grain, annual rings, rays, coloration, or knots. A nicely figured uke can be desirable as well as expensive!
Fingerboard
The area of the neck over which the strings run and into which the frets are mounted. The fingerboard is where your fretting hand holds the notes by pressing down on the strings between the frets. Fingerboards are often made out of a strip of dark wood or dark stained wood applied to the neck of the ukulele.
Fingerstyle
The technique of playing the ukulele by picking individual strings with the fingers or a pick, rather than strumming them.
Finish
The term used to describe how a ukulele body is finished in manufacture - either glossy, matte or painted (usually)
Flat
Lower in pitch. (deeper)
Flatpick
A triangular or teardrop-shaped piece of nylon or plastic used to pluck or strum the strings. Not something that is usually used to play a ukulele, but anything goes!
Flea and Fluke
Names of modern designed ukuleles with distinctive shapes and moulded plastic backs. Their design is exact and are rarely badly set up. Manufactured by the Magic Fluke Company in the USA.
Four/four time
A time signature of four quarter beats in one bar of music.
Fret
The thin strips of metal set into the neck of a ukulele to allow you to change notes. By holding a string between frets, the fret nearest the bridge acts as a nut and shortens the length of the string, hence sharpening the note higher.
Fretting
The action of placing a finger between frets, thus changing the length and pitch of the string.
Fret Marker
The dots inlayed in the fingerboard of the ukulele to help finger placement and finding notes.
Read More »
Ukulele A-Z - F is For....
My next installment of the Ukulele A-Z - this time, the letter F!
Figure
The distinctive pattern produced by a wood's grain, annual rings, rays, coloration, or knots. A nicely figured uke can be desirable as well as expensive!
Fingerboard
The area of the neck over which the strings run and into which the frets are mounted. The fingerboard is where your fretting hand holds the notes by pressing down on the strings between the frets. Fingerboards are often made out of a strip of dark wood or dark stained wood applied to the neck of the ukulele.
Fingerstyle
The technique of playing the ukulele by picking individual strings with the fingers or a pick, rather than strumming them.
Finish
The term used to describe how a ukulele body is finished in manufacture - either glossy, matte or painted (usually)
Flat
Lower in pitch. (deeper)
Flatpick
A triangular or teardrop-shaped piece of nylon or plastic used to pluck or strum the strings. Not something that is usually used to play a ukulele, but anything goes!
Flea and Fluke
Names of modern designed ukuleles with distinctive shapes and moulded plastic backs. Their design is exact and are rarely badly set up. Manufactured by the Magic Fluke Company in the USA.
Four/four time
A time signature of four quarter beats in one bar of music.
Fret
The thin strips of metal set into the neck of a ukulele to allow you to change notes. By holding a string between frets, the fret nearest the bridge acts as a nut and shortens the length of the string, hence sharpening the note higher.
Fretting
The action of placing a finger between frets, thus changing the length and pitch of the string.
Fret Marker
The dots inlayed in the fingerboard of the ukulele to help finger placement and finding notes.
4 Apr 2011
4 Apr 2011T20:42
I've been particularly pleased to see it rise up the Amazon rankings.
Oh, and also, something of a stop press - I am hoping to get a version in print shortly meaning those of you who want to own a physical copy will soon be able to - watch this space!
Read More »
Ukulele ebook update
Firstly, a huge thank you to those who bought the book and made it a success - it really has taken me aback. I hope you enjoyed it and can pass on the good word to other readers who are thinking about the ukulele.
I've been particularly pleased to see it rise up the Amazon rankings.
If you are in the UK, you will find the book at What Ukulele Players Really Want To Know UK edition
US buyers, just click the book cover in the panel on the right hand side of this blog.
If you are not a Kindle owner - the great site Smashwords has the book at the same price in a bewildering range of formats here - Smashwords Ukulele ebook
T19:23
So tell the world - are you an aspiring player? Been playing a while but looking to upgrade your uke? Advanced player with a bad case of UAS (Ukulele Acquisition Syndrome!)?
Read More »
New Ukulele Poll
If you glance over to the right column of this blog, you will see that I have started a new poll. I am interested in how the readership is split between those with and without ukes, and I would be most grateful for your votes!
So tell the world - are you an aspiring player? Been playing a while but looking to upgrade your uke? Advanced player with a bad case of UAS (Ukulele Acquisition Syndrome!)?
2 Apr 2011
2 Apr 2011T13:02
Do something good today and place an order (mine is ordered and on its way and I will post a bit more about it when it arrives). A great cause.
Bosko and Honey page - Ukulele Safari CD
Read More »
Bosko & Honey CD Appeal for Japan
I am overdue in letting my readers know about this but the marvellous Australian ukulele couple Bosko and Honey are donating proceeds from sales of their CD "Ukulele Safari Volume 1" to the Red Cross Japan Disaster Appeal.
The CD is a compilation of ukulele tracks from their world Ukulele Safari, runs to 75 minutes and is packed with 22 songs by artists from around the world (including a couple by Bosko amd Honey themselves!)
It comes with a beautiful colour booklet designed by Shelley Rickey, and they will ship them to you worldwide.
T12:01
A minor chord is a variation on the major chords we looked at last time, and is shown in chord notation with a small "m" after the Chord, like Am, Cm etc. The minor chords are often referred to as the sad chords, and provide real expression to you songs.
When we looked at the major chords (on the link above) we saw that a major chord is made up of the 1st, third and fifth of the scale of the chord you are looking for.
A minor chord is exactly the same, but the third is played down half a tone (or flat).
Using our example from the last lesson on the A chord, we learned that the A was made up of the notes A, C# and E. On the Am, we need to take that middle note, the third, down a half tone and flatten it. Taking a C# down a step takes it to a C. We therefore know that for Am, we need the notes A, C and E on the Uke.
Looking at the notes on the strings, the A note remains the same as in the Major A chord - the G string and the second fret. Unlike the A chord though, for the Am, the next note is not a C# but a C. We know that the third string on a uke is a C when played open, so it doesnt need fretting. The first and second strings also can be left alone because they play A and E respectively, so work for this chord.
And thats it. To turn any major chord into a minor, just take that third, middle note in your chord down a half tone. Easy - try it with the other major chords you learned.
Good luck!
Read More »
Ukulele Beginners - Basic Ukulele Theory - part 3 - Minor Chords
In our last guide HERE we looked at Major ukulele chords. It is important that you know the majors, but you will not get very far without some variations on these chords. In this theory guide we look at Minor Chords.
A minor chord is a variation on the major chords we looked at last time, and is shown in chord notation with a small "m" after the Chord, like Am, Cm etc. The minor chords are often referred to as the sad chords, and provide real expression to you songs.
When we looked at the major chords (on the link above) we saw that a major chord is made up of the 1st, third and fifth of the scale of the chord you are looking for.
A minor chord is exactly the same, but the third is played down half a tone (or flat).
Using our example from the last lesson on the A chord, we learned that the A was made up of the notes A, C# and E. On the Am, we need to take that middle note, the third, down a half tone and flatten it. Taking a C# down a step takes it to a C. We therefore know that for Am, we need the notes A, C and E on the Uke.
Looking at the notes on the strings, the A note remains the same as in the Major A chord - the G string and the second fret. Unlike the A chord though, for the Am, the next note is not a C# but a C. We know that the third string on a uke is a C when played open, so it doesnt need fretting. The first and second strings also can be left alone because they play A and E respectively, so work for this chord.
And thats it. To turn any major chord into a minor, just take that third, middle note in your chord down a half tone. Easy - try it with the other major chords you learned.
Good luck!
T09:00
DECAY
The decline and fade in the volume and reverberation of a note
DOUBLE BAR LINE
The double vertical lines on a stave of musical notation that signifies the end of the piece of music.
DOWN STROKE
The strumming action across the ukulele strings, moving from top to bottom.
EIGHTH NOTE
In musical notation, this signifies the time value of the note as being an eighth of a whole note ( half as long as a quarter note)
EBONY
A hard dark wood favoured for fingerboards and in some cases, nuts and saddles.
ELECTRO ACOUSTIC
The term given to a ukulele that looks and plays just like a standard acoustic ukulele with a sound hole, but is fitted with a pickup system allowing the uke to be plugged in to an amplifier.
END BLOCK
A solid piece of wood inside the ukulele construction at the base of the instrument to provide structural support to the instrument, and in some cases support for a strap pin.
END PIN
A (usually) metal button fitted to the base of the ukulele into the end block for the attachment of a strap, or in the case of electro instruments, the jack socket for connection to an amplifier.
Read More »
Ukulele A-Z - D and E is for.....
Continuing my Ukulele A to Z, this time we are at the letters D and E
DECAY
The decline and fade in the volume and reverberation of a note
DOUBLE BAR LINE
The double vertical lines on a stave of musical notation that signifies the end of the piece of music.
DOWN STROKE
The strumming action across the ukulele strings, moving from top to bottom.
EIGHTH NOTE
In musical notation, this signifies the time value of the note as being an eighth of a whole note ( half as long as a quarter note)
EBONY
A hard dark wood favoured for fingerboards and in some cases, nuts and saddles.
ELECTRO ACOUSTIC
The term given to a ukulele that looks and plays just like a standard acoustic ukulele with a sound hole, but is fitted with a pickup system allowing the uke to be plugged in to an amplifier.
END BLOCK
A solid piece of wood inside the ukulele construction at the base of the instrument to provide structural support to the instrument, and in some cases support for a strap pin.
END PIN
A (usually) metal button fitted to the base of the ukulele into the end block for the attachment of a strap, or in the case of electro instruments, the jack socket for connection to an amplifier.
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