Technically, fingering problems are inseparably linked to an instrument's tuning. A tuning's characteristics can force constant fingering adjustments and contribute to the difficulty of learning the notes on the neck. Note duplication, open strings, and unequal tuning all contribute to the complexity of fingering. Since strings vary in diameter, notes produced on different strings vary in tone color. Generally, thicker strings produce warmer or darker tone color. Thinner strings produce a brighter or more cutting tone color.

This book is devoted to applying the six fingering principles as applied to the ukulele. The study of fingering can be broken down into several topics of study. They are position and technique, finger independence and strength, and motion principles with their applications. The first step is an efficient hand position. A good hand position is critical for technique, eliminating the needless waste of effort and energy, typical of underdeveloped fingering technique.

Hand Position and Technique

Efficiency of motion and energy is the key to developing your fingering technique. The thumb should be flat against the neck's back, approximately under the first or second finger. The exact position varies with the thumb, neck, and hand size. The thumb pushes up against the neck while the fingers press down and stay poised above the strings, ready to move in any direction.

The four fingers span four frets, one finger per fret. By laying the first finger flat across all strings at the first fret or by playing the Bb7 chord at fret (1), the wrist naturally bends, giving each finger equal access to all strings within a four fret span.

In playing single notes, place the finger just before the fret. Use enough pressure to get a clear tone but don't exert more effort than required. If a "buzzy" tone results, readjust your finger. Ensure that your fingers' tips press the strings down straight, right behind the fret, without pushing or pulling the notes.

NOTE: The fourth finger will not be as arched as the other fingers because of its size and relative reach.

The fingering hand should not support the ukulele and needs to be free to move over the fingerboard.

The high thumb position has always been a controversial subject. If your thumb takes a high position, the finger span is reduced from four to three frets. You'll need more movement and effort to play anything in the standard four fret position.

The high thumb position is often used as a leverage device for bends and vibratos in Blues and Rock music. It is an exceptional position and should not be a fundamental position. Work to develop a low thumb position.

If you need to stand while playing and want to use the four fret span position, wear the ukulele high. In this way, you can easily reach the four fret span, and there is little change in playing angle from a sitting to a standing position.

Finger Independence and Strength

The four fingers of the fingering hand need to function independently of each other. Strength, agility, and control are necessary for great hands. Practice the following exercise:

• Play the G♯ note — finger 1, string ④ fret (1)
• Play the A note — finger 2, string ④ fret (2)
• Play the A♯/B♭ note — finger 3, string ④ fret (3)
• Play the B note — finger 4, string ④ fret (4)

Continue this pattern on each string. When played ascending, descending, forward and backward, this exercise is an important first step in developing control of the four fingers in a four fret span. It's also an essential step in synchronizing both hands. Keep the thumb in the back of the neck at all times. Don't lift the fingers unnecessarily high.