Learning Ukulele with Curt

All Available Lessons

All Available Lessons

indicates the lesson has downloadable PDF (based on membership level).

Blue Christmas

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Blue Christmas".

Deck The Halls

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Deck The Halls".

Over The River And Through The Woods

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Over The River And Through The Woods".

Pomp And Circumstance, The Graduation Song

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Pomp And Circumstance".

Anniversary Song

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Anniversary Song".

Buffalo Gals

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Buffalo Gals (Won't You Come Out Tonight)".

By The Light Of The Silvery Moon

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "By The Light Of The Silvery Moon".

Come And Go With Me

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Come And Go With Me".

(Oh, My Darling) Clementine

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "(Oh, My Darling) Clementine".

Avalon

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Avalon".

Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da".

The First Noel

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "The First Noel".

The Chipmunk Song

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "The Chipmunk Song".

Away In The Manger

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Away In The Manger".

Hava Nagila

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Hava Nagila".

Yankee Doodle Boy

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Yankee Doodle Boy".

Sunny Afternoon

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Sunny Afternoon".

Swanee

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Swanee".

Tell Me Why

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Tell Me Why".

Taps (Bugle Call)

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Taps".

Sunrise, Sunset

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Sunrise, Sunset".

Bye Bye Love

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Bye Bye Love".

By The Beautiful Sea

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Bye The Beautiful Sea".

Jingle Bell Rock

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Jingle Bell Rock".

Jingle Bells

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Jingle Bells".

The Candy Man

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "The Candy Man".

America, The Beautiful

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "America, The Beautiful".

America (My Country 'Tis Of Thee)

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "America (My Country 'Tis Of Thee)".

Anchors Aweigh

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Anchors Aweigh".

Any Time

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Any Time".

Auld Lang Syne

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Auld Lang Syne".

Que Sera, Sera (Whatever Will Be, Will Be)

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Que Sera, Sera (Whatever Will Be, Will Be)".

Reading Songs and Leadsheets

Playing music, especially the ukulele, is all about getting together with others and playing songs. Reading music opens you to a world of music beyond the ukulele. And, It's not as hard as you might think to read chord charts, Leadsheets, fake books, and navigating your way through a song's roadmap.

Practice, Practice, Practice

As far as practice is concerned, do as much as you can. Realize that there are many things and activities competing for your time and attention – work, family, school, money, etc., etc. You WILL progress if you stick with it. Only your rate of progress is variable and, of course, related to the time and effort you put into it. No matter the time available.

Feliz Navidad

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Feliz Navidad".

The Dreidel Song

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "The Dreidel Song".

Prayer Of Thanksgiving

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Prayer Of Thanksgiving".

Baby Face

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Baby Face".

Swing Low, Sweet Chariot

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Swing Low, Sweet Chariot".

Take Me Out To The Ballgame

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Take Me Out To The Ballgame".

Zip-A-Dee-Doo-Dah

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Zip-A-Dee-Doo-Dah".

Beautiful Brown Eyes

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Beautiful Brown Eyes".

Wake Up Little Susie

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Wake Up Little Susie".

Can't Help Falling In Love

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Can't Help Fallin In Love".

Around The World

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Around The World".

All Through The Night

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "All Through The Night".

All Night, All Day

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "All Night, All Day".

Careless Love

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Careless Love".

Home On The Range

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Home On The Range".

That'll Be The Day

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "That'll Be The Day" by Buddy Holly.

Bad, Bad Leroy Brown

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Bad, Bad Leroy Brown".

Surfin' U.S.A.

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Surfin' U.S.A.".

Eight Days A Week

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Eight Days A Week".

Full Diatonic I IV V I Chord Progression

The I IV V I Full Diatonic progression popular in Pop, Fold, Rock, Country and various other styles.

Full Diatonic VI IV I V Chord Progression

The V VI IV I Full Diatonic progression popular in Pop, Fold, Rock, Country and various other styles.

Three Blind Mice

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Three v".

Oh Where, Oh Where Has My Little Dog Gone?

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Oh Where, Oh Where Has My Little Dog Gone?".

Mary Had a Little Lamb

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Mary Had a Little Lamb".

It's A Small World

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "It's A Small World".

Hush Little Baby

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Hush Little Baby".

Brahms' Lullaby

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Brahms' Lullaby".

Baa, Baa, Black Sheep

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Baa, Baa, Black Sheep".

Ain't We Got Fun?

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Ain't We Got Fun?".

It's My Party

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "It's My Party".

Rocky Top

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Rocky Top"

Under The Boardwalk

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Under The Boardwalk".

Full Diatonic I IV V IV Chord Progression

The I IV V IV Full Diatonic progression popular in Pop, Fold, Rock, Country and various other styles.

Full Diatonic IV I V VI Chord Progression

The IV I V VI Full Diatonic progression popular in Pop, Fold, Rock, Country and various other styles.

Walk Right In

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Walk Right In".

This Old Man

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "This Old Man".

Old MacDonald Had A Farm

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Old MacDonald Had A Farm".

The More We Get Together

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "The More We Get Together".

If You're Happy And You Know It

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "If You're Happy And You Know It".

The Farmer In The Dell

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "The Farmer In The Dell".

Eensy Weensy Spider

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Eensy Weensy Spider".

Proud Mary

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Proud Mary".

The Girl From Ipanema

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "The Girl From Ipanema".

Blue Bossa

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Blue Bossa".

Black Orpheus

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Black Orpheus".

Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star".

My Funny Valentine

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "My Funny Valentine".

Silent Night

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Silent Night".

A Hard Day's Night

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "A Hard Day's Night" by the Beatles.

Full DiatonicI IV I V Chord Progression

The I IV I V Full Diatonic progression popular in Pop, Fold, Rock, Country and various other styles.

Full Diatonic I VI IV V Chord Progression

The I VI IV V Full Diatonic progression popular in Pop, Fold, Rock, Country and various other styles. Know as the Fifties, "Doo Woop" Progression.

Hello Dolly

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Hello Dolly".

Row Row Your Boat

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Row Row Your Boat".

Skip To My Lou

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Skip To My Lou".

Polly Wolly Doodle

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Polly Wolly Doodle".

The Bear Went Over The Mountain

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "The Bear Went Over The Mountain".

Alphabet Song

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Alphabet Song".

Joy To The World

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Joy To The World".

All I Have To Do Is Dream

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "All I Have To Do Is Dream".

All Of Me

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "All Of Me".

Hey, Good Lookin'

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Hey, Good Lookin'".

Hey Jude

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Hey Jude".

Moon River

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Moon River".

On Broadway

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "On Broadway".

Cool Chords: C7

This is a movable seventh chord. I use this at fret (5) for D7 in my arrangement of Take the A Train. This allows me to sustain the chord and grab the high E melody on string one at fret (7).

Full Diatonic I V VI IV Chord Progression

The I V VI IV Full Diatonic progression popular in Pop, Fold, Rock, Country and various other styles.

Full Diatonic V VI IV I Chord Progression

The V VI IV I Full Diatonic progression popular in Pop, Fold, Rock, Country and various other styles.

This Train

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "This Train".

Bye Bye Blues

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Bye Bye Blues".

Do-Re-Me

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Do-Re-Me".

Lullabye of Birdland

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Lullabye of Birdland".

Daydream Believer

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Daydream Believer".

Modal Interchange

"Modal Interchange" is temporarily borrowing chords from a parallel tonality or mode that shares the same root. These borrowed chords originate from the major or minor parallel modes, including their respective harmonic and melodic minor, as well as symmetrical scales sharing the same root. You can borrow from any parallel scale or mode.

Full Diatonic I IV V V Chord Progression

The I IV V V Full Diatonic progression popular in Pop, Folk, Rock, Country and various other styles.

Full Diatonic I I IV V Chord Progression

The I I IV V Full Diatonic progression popular in Pop, Fold, Rock, Country and various other styles.

Aloha `Oe ("Farewell to Thee")

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the Hawaiian folk song written circa 1878 by Liliʻuokalani, who was then Princess of the Hawaiian Kingdom song: Aloha ʻOe("Farewell to Thee").

There Is A Tavern In The Town

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the traditional drinking song: "There Is A Tavern In The Town".

Kumbaya

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Kumbaya".

Keep On The Sunny Side

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Keep On The Sunny Side".

Good Morning To All

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Good Morning To All".

Always

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Always".

Georgia On My Mind

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Georgia On My Mind".

Alternating Thumb Style, Conclusion

Fingerpicking for Ukulele – Alternating Thumb Style explored a lot of material. This style of fingerpicking or fingerstyle be can used in a wide variety of music. It’s a great addition to your music toolbox. A special thanks to my musical mentor Chuck Anderson, Glen Hirabayashi and Jan BroFka-Berends for their contributions to this book.

Are You Lonesome Tonight?

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the 1925 song: Are You Lonesome Tonight?

Amazing Grace

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the traditional melody: Amazing Grace.

26 Miles (Santa Catalina)

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "26 Miles (Santa Catalina)".

Bluesette

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Bluesette".

Wayfaring Stranger

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Wayfaring Stranger".

You Are My Sunshine

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "You Are My Sunshine".

Bye Bye Blackbird

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Bye Bye Blackbird".

Don't Get Around Much Anymore

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Don't Get Around Much Anymore".

Crazy

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Crazy".

All The Things You Are

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the jazz standard: "All The Things You Are".

Mele Kalikimaka

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Mele Kalikimaka"

Learning the Ukulele Fingerboard - Natural and Flat Names

A handy reference chart of the Natural and Flat Names for C Ttuning, Low or High G".

Reading for `Ukulele - Lesson Ten, Position V

Lesson Ten covers reading in position V.

Maui Hawai'ian Sup'pa Man

This is cool, fun song that is part of a lot of Hawai'ian musicians repertoire and a lot of fun to play. I was always honored to have Gordon Velasco ask me to sit in with him and Debi and this was always on of my favorites to play and jam on. Basically an Andalusian chord progression: Am G F E7.

Alternating Thumb Style, Examples Progressions

Common progressions can be used after mastering the individual patterns with a single chord and moving on the songs and common chord progressions.

Five Foot Two, Eyes of Blue

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the 1925 classic by Ray Henderson and ukulele group favorite: Five Foot Two, Eyes of Blue.

Rawhide

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Rawhide".

Ain't She Sweet

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Ain't She Sweet".

King Of The Road

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "King Of The Road".

Love Potion Number 9

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Love Potion Number 9".

Love Me Do

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Love Me Do".

Giant Steps

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Giant Steps".

I'm A Believer

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "I'm A Believer".

Chord String Family Organization

Organizing your “Jazz”, 4-part chords for Ukulele and Guitar.

Modes of the Melodic Minor Scale

A great deal of modern jazz harmony arises from the modes of the ascending form of the melodic minor scale, also known as the Jazz Melodic Minor Scale. This scale is essentially a diatonic major scale with a lowered third, for example C–D–E♭–F–G–A–B–C. As with any other scale, the modes are derived from playing the scale from different root notes, causing a series of jazz scales to emerge.

Playing in Every Key

What is it playing in every, ALL keys? For most instruments that have set fingerings for each scale, this is possible and somewhat manageable.

Love Me Tender

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Love Me Tender".

Red River Valley

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Red River Valley".

All My Loving

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "All My Loving".

My Favorite Things

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "My Favorite Things".

Primary Chords - F# Major

The primary chords for any major key are the I, IV and V chords of its corresponding major scale. For F# Major the primary chords are: F#, B, C# and C#7. From these primary chords alone countless songs and chords progressions can be played.

Common Chord Progressions for the Key of F#

Common chord progressions for the key of F#. Using the primary and seconday chords for the key explore these common chord progressions for the key of F#.

Intervals

An interval is the distance between two notes. An interval has a name and a type. Intervals can be played melodically, ascending or descending. Or played harmonically by playing both notes at the same time. An interval can be inverted. Intervals can be diatonic to a scale or chromatic and not from a scale.

Rhythm - Avoid at Your Own Peril

The often neglected and taken for granted subject of Rhythm. Music is Melody, Harmony and Rhythm. We are drawn, initially to music by melody at a very early age, with the instrument of our voice. With ukulele you typically learn chords - the harmony and never really dive into learning rhythm. Unless you're a drummer we take rhythm for granted.

Voice Leading

Voice Leading is a technique used to smoothly connect chords. It is based on a small number of variables.

How Playing an Instrument Benefits Your Brain - Anita Collins

When you listen to music, multiple areas of your brain become engaged and active. But when you actually play an instrument, that activity becomes more like a full-body brain workout. What's going on? Anita Collins explains the fireworks that go off in musicians' brains when they play, and examines some of the long-term positive effects of this mental workout.

Folsom Prison Blues

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the classic Johnny Cash classic: "Folsom Prison Blues".

Happy Together

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Happy Together".

Sustained Strums

There are seven (7) variations of the Basic “Four” beat strum.

QuickStart Scale Fingerings - A Blues Summary

Single sheet summary of the A Blues Scale fingerboard shapes for guitar in standard tuning.

Wildwood Flower

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: Wildwood Flower.

Blue Skies

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the Irving Berlin class song: "Blue Skies".

After You've Gone

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "After You've Gone".

Rock Around the Clock

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Rock Around the Clock"

Working Song

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for: "TEMPLATE and Working Song" used for local dev.

High Thumb Technique

Unless there is an overwhelming musical reason for your thumb to get in on the action and play notes or mute strings. In most cases and for most players the thumb should function in its supporting role of providing equal and opposite pressing motion to the fingers. There are few if any exceptions.

Counting Triplets

Time to chime in and reveal how simple it is to learn to play triplets and triplet based strums. Counting triplets is as simple as counting anything else. Simply use the counting system we all learned early on - use numbers.

Practice Cycles

Sequences and cycles for practicing scales, intervals, melodic sequences and arpeggios.

Do We Need Lowercase Roman Numerals for Harmonic Analysis?

As a musician you should already know the chord types for that chords based on theory and harmonic function.

Essential Db Major Scale Patterns for Ukulele

Essential DbMajor scale patterns for ukulele. Learning scales typically starts with learning a position or pattern by shape. For a lot of players that's where it stops. With the many possible shapes between chords and scales to learn – there has to be a better way – There is!!!

Tetrachords: Phrygian (1 b2 b3 4)

The Phrygian tetrachord is the 1 b2 b3 4 of a Phrygian scale.

Clave

Just what is a Clave?

Triplet Based Strums - 12/8

A triplet, as the “tri” in the name implies, means three. It’s the subdivision of the beat into three even parts. Notice that I had used the word three for the number 3 in my writing. So, if I’m counting any beat which can be sub divided by three, it’s 1 2 3. No need to use words such as trip-o-let or one triplet, two triplet, etc to count.

QuickStart Scale Fingerings - A and E Blues Summary

Single sheet summary of the A and E Blues Scale fingerboard shapes for guitar in standard tuning.

These Boots Are Made For Walkin'

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "These Boots Are Made For Walkin'".

Developing Your Single Note Picking

Developing you single note picking starts with holding the pick properly, choosing the proper size and material and actually working on picking on your guitar.

Tetrachords: Minor (1 2 b3 4)

The Minor tetrachord is the 1 2 b3 4 of a Natural Minor or Aeolian scale.

QuickStart Scale Fingerings - E Blues Summary

Single sheet summary of the E Blues Scale fingerboard shapes for guitar in standard tuning.

You've Got a Friend in Me

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for "You've Got a Friend in Me" by Randy Newman.

Learning Ukulele - Recipe for Success - Mini Workshop Version

"Where Do I Start?" This is a common question. This workshop/lesson covers ukulele tunings, learning the ukulele fingerboard, basic chords and strums. This workshop gets you rolling on having some fun playing the ukulele. This is the workshop-lesson handout that given to ukulele players attending the "Learning Ukulele - A Recipe for Success" beginner workshop.

Creating Intros, Basic I V on C Major

A basic I V introduction in the key of C major: C to G or G7. The Tonic to Dominant.

Primary Chords - B Major

The primary chords for any major key are the I, IV and V chords of its corresponding major scale. For B Major, the primary chords are: B, E, F# and F#7. From these primary chords alone, countless songs and chords progressions can be played.

Secondary Chords - F# Major

The secondary chords for any major key are the II, III and VI chords of it's corresponding major scale. For F# Major, the secondary chords are: G#m, A#m and D#m. From the primary and secondary chords of a major key, countless songs and chords progressions can be played.

Secondary Chords - Cb Major

The secondary chords for any major key are the II, III and VI chords of it's corresponding major scale. For Cb Major, the secondary chords are: Dbm, Ebm and Abm. From the primary and secondary chords of a major key, countless songs and chords progressions can be played.

The Hawai'ian Turnaround

The Hawai'ian Turnaround is a II7 V I chord progression in a major key. The II7 V I refers to the chord’s harmonic function within that key and a way of comparing like chord progressions, songs and harmonic cells.

Brown Eyed Girl

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Brown Eyed Girl".

Switching Chords

A series of finger drills for developing finger independence, strength and coordination for switching chords.

Secondary Chords - B Major

The secondary chords for any major key are the II, III and VI chords of its corresponding major scale. For B Major, the secondary chords are: C#m, D#m and G#m. From the primary and secondary chords of a major key, countless songs and chords progressions can be played.

Finding a Good Teacher

It's unfortunate that there' s no oversight or organization that regulates private music teachers. This is especially true for private guitar and ukulele teachers. Anyone can hang a shingle out advertising private lessons or put content online. So finding a good teacher can be a problem. Here are a few questions you can ask prospective teachers and generally speaking what their answers should be. I'll also input my perspective which should give some info on accurately evaluating a prospective teacher or online content.

Primary Chords - Cb Major

The primary chords for any major key are the I, IV and V chords of its corresponding major scale. For Cb Major, the primary chords are: Cb, Fb, Gb and Gb7. From the primary and secondary chords of a major key, countless songs and chords progressions can be played.

Fingernail Care

If there is one area of discussion that players recommendations are all over the board on - it's fingernails for classical guitar. The technique and subject for classica guitar is appropriate for ukulele as well. The ukulele is almost a mini classical guitar missing two strings.

Primary Chords - Db Major

The primary chords for any major key are the I, IV and V chords of its corresponding major scale. For Db Major' the primary chords are: Db, Gb, Ab and Ab7. From the primary and secondary chords of a major key' countless songs and chords progressions can be played.

Standard Guitar Tuning - Key Frets

From a few key and secondary frets you can master the names of the frets of the guitar fingerboard.

Using a Capo

Just what is a "Capo" and how does one go about using it?

QuickStart Scale and Arpeggio Fingerings for Ukulele, Getting Beyond Shapes

Over the years, people have come up with various fingering systems, patterns, and even gadgets to make learning the ukulele easier. Most systems are shape and pattern based and geared to the beginning student and do not require any knowledge of the ukulele fingerboard beyond what a fret is and the location of strings.

Tonight You Belong to Me

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the songs: "Tonight You Belong to Me".

Common Chord Progressions for the Key of B

Common chord progressions for the key of B. Using the primary and seconday chords for the key explore these common chord progressions for the key of B.

Essential Ab Major Scale Patterns for Ukulele

Essential Ab Major scale patterns for ukulele. Learning scales typically starts with learning a position or pattern by shape. For a lot of players that's where it stops. With the many possible shapes between chords and scales to learn - there has to be a better way - There is!!!

Essential G Major Scale Patterns for Ukulele

Essential G Major scale patterns for ukulele. Learning scales typically starts with learning a position or pattern by shape. For a lot of players that's where it stops. With the many possible shapes between chords and scales to learn - there has to be a better way - There is!!!

Learning the `Ukulele Fingerboard - D Tuning Fingerboard Chart

The natural, flat and sharp note names of the ukulele fingerboard in D tuning, low or high A.

This tuning was common in the first and second ukulele craze. It is also the tuning that is used in the Canadian school system.

Derived Frets from Key Frets

There is nothing that returns more value for time investment when learning a fretted musical instrument like the guitar than really, and I mean really knowing the names of the notes of the fingerboard.

How to Spell ʻUkulele

How to spell `Ukulele and actually get all those crazy Hawi`ian characters on your computer, iPad, iPhone, and more. A guest lesson form Patrick Moffitt.

Fingering an Open Postion D Major `Ukulele Chord

There are several ways to finger an open position D major chord. Depending on the context of how it's being used, one fingering might be better than another. Discover the "Mushy D" fingering.

Common Chord Progressions for the Key of Cb

Using the primary and secondary chords for the key explore these common chord progressions for the key of Cb. The key of Cb is a pretty rare key but actually an easy key to relate to the key of C. The key of C has ALL natural notes and the key of Cb has all flat notes for the scale: Cb Db Eb Fb Gb Ab Bb Cb`. The names of the notes are the easy part, the chords are typically played as movable form chords with only the Fb ( the enharmonic equivalent name is E ) available as an open string in the C tuning.

What’s Bad About the Internet?

This is a guest lesson/article by internationally renowned jazz guitarist and educator Chuck Anderson. For all the advantages that the Internet offers and there are many of them, it seems to be having one particularly bad effect.

´Okina

The ´okina, also called by several other names, is a unicameral consonant letter used within the Latin script to mark the phonetic glottal stop, as it is used in many Polynesian languages.

Basie Ending

The Count Basie ending is one of the most recognizable endings in classic jazz. It is simple, effective and one ending that all gigging jazz musicians must know.

Last Train To Clarksville

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Last Train To Clarksville".

Essential Bb Major Scale Patterns for `Ukulele

Essential Bb Major scale patterns for ukulele.

Essential Eb Major Scale Patterns for Ukulele

Essential Eb Major scale patterns for ukulele. Learning scales typically starts with learning a position or pattern by shape. For a lot of players that's where it stops. With the many possible shapes between chords and scales to learn - there has to be a better way - There is!!!

Basic I VI II V Introduction in Key of C

A common variation of the** I V **chord progression and introduction: C Am Dm G

Essential F Major Scale Patterns for `Ukulele

Essential F Major scale patterns for ukulele.

Secondary Chords - Db Major

The secondary chords for any major key are the II, III and VI chords of it's corresponding major scale. For Db Major, the secondary chords are: Ebm, Fm and Bm. From the primary and secondary chords of a major key, countless songs and chords progressions can be played.

Common Chord Progressions for the Key of Gb

Common chord progressions for the key of Gb. Using the primary and seconday chords for the key explore these common chord progressions for the key of Gb.

What is a Kazoo

The kazoo is a musical instrument that adds a "buzzing" timbral quality to a player's voice when the player vocalizes into it. It is a type of mirliton, which is a membranophone, one of a class of instruments which modifies its player's voice by way of a vibrating membrane.

Essential Scales

A scale is a collection of pitches a.k.a. notes, used for creating melodies, either pre composed or improvised on the spot. A scale is also used for the harmony – the chords. The melodies and chords create a tonality. The most common source for these melodies and chords is the Major scale. Also known as the Ionian scale or mode.

Swing

Just what is "Swing". This lesson will have you playing Traditional Swing, Hard Swing. As well as how it applies to various styles.

Essential D Major Scale Patterns for `Ukulele

Essential D Major scale patterns for ukulele.

Common Chord Progressions for the Key of Db

Common chord progressions for the key of Db. Using the primary and seconday chords for the key explore these common chord progressions for the key of Db.

Repeating Note - Five Note, Single String Fingering Drills Starting with Fingers 3-4-1-2-3

Building on the single note, 1, 2, 3, and 4 finger basic gymnastics. Now with repeating note or two. This lesson starts with the finger combination: 3-4-1-2-3.

Core Chords for Ukulele - Augmented Major Seventh, Four Voicings

A rare chord, an augmented triad with a major seventh. Used the support the melody when the melody is the major seventh.

Altered Scales Choices

Alterted scale choices for improvisation.

The Seven Scale Modes, Open Position Examples

The seven scale modes on ukulele in open postion with TAB and scale diagrams.

Warm Up Routines

Just like, you don't want to just take off and run as fast as you can. You should ease into to it to prevent injuries and perform at an optimal level.

The Island Strum

Just, what is the Island Strum?

Secondary Chords - Eb Major

The secondary chords for any major key are the II, III and VI chords of it’s corresponding major scale. For Eb Major, the secondary chords are: Fm, Gm and Cm. From the primary and secondary chords of a major key, countless songs and chords progressions can be played.

Secondary Chords - Gb Major

The secondary chords for any major key are the II, III and VI chords of it's corresponding major scale. For Gb Major, the secondary chords are: Abm, Abm and Ebm. From the primary and secondary chords of a major key, countless songs and chords progressions can be played.

Repeating Note - Single String Fingering Drills Conclusion

At this point, you can be creative and create any number of repeating note gymnastics to work on specific problem areas you encounter in your technique. This is actually where a good teacher can help in identifying problem areas in your playing.

Learning the Ukulele Fingerboard - G Tuning Fingerboard Chart

The natural, flat and sharp note names of the ukulele fingerboard in :G Tuning, Low or High D". Common on the baritone ukulele and can also be used on a tenor ukulele.

Example Bossa Nova Patterns

Here are few example rhythmic patterns to get the essence the Bossa Nova style.

Ain't Misbehavin'

Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the 1929 Fats Waller classic: Ain't Misbehavin.

Common Chord Progressions for the Key of C#

Common chord progressions for the key of C#. Using the primary and seconday chords for the key explore these common chord progressions for the key of C#.

The Big Six Core Chords - Level III

The next series of chords that build on the Bix Six Core Chords and form the foundation for ALL your jazz chords include: Diminished Major Seventh ( dimL7 ) and Augmented Major Seventh ( augL7 ). These chords are rare and used to support a major seventh melody.

Basic Open Position Guitar Chords - Standard Tuning

Not to leave our guitar players out of the action here is a chart for basic chords for guitar. The basic open position chords that all guitar players should know. These are typically the first chords beginner learn.

4-Part Triads

A 4-part triad is created by lowering the root of a triad the corrext number of steps (a.k.a.) frets to get the "seventh" of the chord. For a flat seventh it's two frets for a major seventh its' one fret.

Effect Pedals and the Ukulele

Typically effects pedals are not used with the ukulele. However there is no reason they can’t be used.

Open String Fingering Fingering Drills

Open string fingering gymnasics build on the basic one, two, three and four finger single note - single strings drills.

Chord a Day, March 12th - Ab7

Learn a new Ukulele chord every day of the year. The chord for March 12th is Ab7.

Secondary Chords - C# Major

The secondary chords for any major key are the II, III and VI chords of its corresponding major scale. For C# Major, the secondary chords are: D#m, E#m and A#m. From the primary and secondary chords of a major key, countless songs and chords progressions can be played.

Basic Open Position Guitar Chords

Sometimes referred to as cowboy or folk chords. These chords are played in the fret one, two, and three are of the guitar neck and include at least one open string. Technically the open position includes the open strings and frets one, two, three and four. These are typically the first chords anyone learning to play the guitar learn.

Open String, Two Finger Single Strings Fingering Drills

Using the original two finger-two notes single strings gymnastics, incorporate an open string. This develops the ability to get the finger on and off notes rapidly - getting out of the way when needed.

Learning the Fingerboard, C Tuning - Random Shape

There is nothing that returns more value when learning a fretted musical instrument like the ukulele than really , and I mean really knowing the names of the notes of the fingerboard. This exercise takes any random fingerboard shape and names the notes using any combination of their natural, sharps and or flats names.

Common Chord Progressions

Learning the similarities between chord progressions and songs helps you remember a lot of songs. There's a lot more in common between songs than one might think. This series of lessons explores common chord progressions.

I Idim7 II V Introduction in Key of C

"I Idim7 II V in key of C" — A classic introduction and chord progression utilized in show tunes and old-time music.

Technique

Musical Technique is simply the physical aspect of playing a musical instrument. The ability to exert efficient, optimal control in order to produce the precise musical effects that are desired. Improving one's technique generally entails practicing exercises that improve one's muscular sensitivity and agility. Technique is independent of musicality.

Common Chord Progressions for the Key of Eb

Common chord progressions for the key of Eb. Using the primary and seconday chords for the key explore these common chord progressions for the key of Eb.

The Downbeat

Locating the downbeats, pulse, and especially beat one is really important in music. Tracking the downbeats on a strumming instrument like ukulele is really important as it relates to the stroke direction and weak and strong part of downbeats and upbeats. These strong and weak parts of the beat need to be reinforced and telegraphed in order for listeners and fellow musicians to play and follow along.

Common Chord Progressions

In Western Harmony there is no stronger chord resolution in a major or minor key than then the V chord to the I chord. In the key of C major this is G or G7 to C.

Chord a Day Videos - March

The videos for all of March's Chord A Day lessons in one place.

Primary Chords - C# Major

The primary chords for any major key are the I, IV and V chords of its corresponding major scale. For C# Major, the primary chords are: C#, F#, G# and G#7. From the primary and secondary chords of a major key, countless songs and chords progressions can be played.

Primary Chords - Eb Major

The primary chords for any major key are the I, IV and V chords of its corresponding major scale. For Eb Major, the primary chords are: Eb, Ab, Bb and Bb7. From the primary and secondary chords of a major key, countless songs and chords progressions can be played.

Primary Chords - Ab Major

The primary chords for any major key are the I, IV and V chords of its corresponding major scale. For Ab Major, the primary chords are: Ab, Db, Eb and Eb7. From the primary and secondary chords of a major key, countless songs and chords progressions can be played.

Open String, Two Finger Single Strings Fingering Drills

Using the original two finger-two notes single strings gymnastics, incorporate an open string. This develops the ability to get the finger on and off notes rapidly - getting out of the way when needed.

Getting Started With `Ukulele - Beginner Lesson Series

These are the lessons you want to go through if you have no experience with ukulele and are "Just Getting Started". These lessons are also a valuable resources for clubs and ukulele teachers.

Reading Music - The Basics

Music is a common language used world wide and recognized by musicians in lots of different countries even speaking different languages. This lesson gives a basic understanding on how to read a lead shot, song sheet, chord chart, etc...

Gallop Strum

The Gallop Strum has application in Metal, Country, and Tex Mex.

Getting Started with LearningUkulele.com

The Getting Started - Welcome New Members to Learningukulele.com. A few pages of resources and links that are available on LearningUkulele.com

Essential C Major Scale Patterns for `Ukulele

Essential C Major scale patterns for ukulele. Learning scales typically starts with learning a position or pattern by shape. For a lot of players that‘s where it stops. With the many possible shapes between chords and scales to learn - there has to be a better way - There is!!!

The Big Six Core Chords - Fm7b5, Four Voicings

The Big Six Core Chords, Level I - Fm7b5, four voicings. The Fm7b5 is a 1 b3 b5 b7 of the major scale, based on the root of the chord.

Shuffle Strum

The Shuffle Strum has applicaitons in Blues, Jazz, and Country.

Alternate Fingerings for F7

Alternate fingerings for F7 in C tuning. The same fingerings would apply to C7 in G tuning and G7 in D tuning.

Learning the Ukulele Fingerboard - Natural and Sharp Names

A handy reference chart of the Natural and Sharp Names for C Ttuning, Low or High G.

The Big Six Core Chords - Level II

The next series of chords that build on the Bix Six Core Chords and form the foundation for ALL your jazz chords include: Major Sixth ( 6 ), Minor Sixth ( m6 ) and Minor-Major Seventh ( mL7 ).

Exploring Minor Triads Plus One - Fingering Solutions 1 2 b3 5

Exploring the triads plus one series is best done using the QuickStart series format and the fingering principles from my book The Six Secrets of Ukulele Fingering. The QuickStart series format single fingering solution for starting on each finger on strings four, three, two and one. Using the fingering principles from my book The Six Secrets of Ukulele Fingering allows you to explore scales, arpeggios, intervals and sequences from every finger-every strings, creating multiple pathways through any single note passage.

Chord a Day, March 13th - Db7

Learn a new Ukulele chord every day of the year. The chord for March 13th is Db7.

Chord a Day, March 26th - F9#5

Learn a new Ukulele chord every day of the year. The chord for March 26th is F9#5.

Guitar Fingerboard Chart - 6 String, Standard Tuning

Fingerboard reference chart of natural, sharp, and flats note names for six-string guitar in standard tuning (E A D G B E).

Simulating Various Ukulele Scale Lengths

If you don't have any concert size instruments nearby to try in a store you can create the scale length on your tenor with an inexpensive capo. A capo on the second or third frets of a tenor leaves you with a scale length (and fret spacing) similar to a concert and the neck width at that level should be very close to that found on most concerts. And if you want to get an idea of what a soprano scale would feel like put the capo at the 4th fret and you'll be almost exactly at the standard 13 5/8 inch length. However the width at that point on a tenor will in most cases be greater than at the nut of a soprano.

Chord a Day, February 20th - dim7

Learn a new Ukulele chord every day of the year. The chord for February 20th is a diminished seventh chord.

Chord a Day, March 10th - B7

Learn a new Ukulele chord every day of the year. The chord for March 10th is B7.

Chord a Day, March 28th - F7b9b5

Learn a new Ukulele chord every day of the year. The chord for March 28th is F7b9b5.

G/Ab Movable Form Ukulele Chords

The "G/Ab Movable Form Ukulele Chords", based on the open position "G, Gm, and G7" chords allow you to transpose these to any key. The movable form chords are the next step after learning the core open position chords.

Adjacent String Pairs Fingering Drills

Building on the one, two, three and four finger finger gymnastics, these adjacent strings drills add a change of direction to the exercises.

Guitar (applies to `Ukulele also) Fingering and Creativity

This is a guest lesson/article by internationally renowned jazz guitarist and educator Chuck Anderson. Normally, we think of fingering as a technical subject. Using a good and efficient fingering makes sense. It should make anything that you play easier and more dependable.

Bass for Ukulele Players

Every musician should be able to play a little bass. A bass player plays chords - just like ukulele players. However there are not strummed. They are played as individual notes - melodically.

The Hawaiian Turnaround in key C

The I II7 V7, the "Hawaiian Turnaround" in key C Major. A classic chord progression utilized in Hawaiian tunes.

Chord a Day, February 23rd - Asus4

Learn a new Ukulele chord every day of the year. The chord for February 23rd is Asus4.

Chord a Day, March 11th - Eb7

Learn a new Ukulele chord every day of the year. The chord for March 11th is Eb7.

Chord a Day, March 21st - E9

Learn a new Ukulele chord every day of the year. The chord for March 21st is E9.

Power 5, sus and add Movable Form Chords

Power 5, sus and add movable form chords. These chords are common rock and contemporary chord forms.

Double Time Strum

The Double Time Strum has application in R&B, Funk, and Disco.

Scale and Mode History

The history of scale modes dates all the way back to the Greek philosopher Pythagoras (569BC- 475BC) who discovered the numerical ratios which determine the intervals of the musical scale.

Using Triads on `Ukulele

In music or music theory, a triad is a three-note chord (or, more generally, any set of three notes, pitches, or tones). Triads can be used harmonically, as chords and melodically, as single notes. These lessons explore both. Using triads as chords like any other chord and using triads as a basis for creating melodies and improvising.

Chord a Day, March 8th - E7

Learn a new Ukulele chord every day of the year. The chord for March 8th is E7.

Primary Chords - Bb Major

The primary chords for any major key are the I, IV and V chords of its corresponding major scale. For Bb Major, the primary chords are: Bb, Eb, F and F7. From the primary and secondary chords of a major key, countless songs and chords progressions can be played.

Harmonic Analysis - Common Harmonic Sequences

Common harmonic sequences and their analysis with scale choices.

Technique

Technique is the manner and degree to which one employs the technical skills of an endeavor. For ukulele or any instrument the use of the hands, It's the motor skills and the efficient application of the motor skills for the specific tasks that are need and required.

Ska Strum

The Ska Strum has applications in Ska, Reggae, and Cut Time.

Chord a Day, March 15th - Db7

Learn a new Ukulele chord every day of the year. The chord for March 15th is Db7.

The Big Six Core Chords - Fm7, Four Voicings

The Big Six Core Chords, Level I - Fm7, four voicings. The Fm7 is a 1 b3 5 b7 of the major scale, based on the root of the chord. For Fm7 the chord tones are: F A C Eb.

Secondary Chords - F Major

The secondary chords for any major key are the II, III and VI chords of it's corresponding major scale. For F Major, the secondary chords are: Gm, Am and Dm. From the primary and secondary chords of a major key, countless songs and chords progressions can be played.

Harmonic Analysis - Conclusion

HARMONIC ANALYSIS for Scale Selection and Chord Substitution explored the six harmonic principles for analyzing chord progressions and songs using tradition tonic-dominant harmony and the scale modes.

Chord a Day, March 22nd - C13

Learn a new Ukulele chord every day of the year. The chord for March 22nd is C13.

Primary Chords - E Major

The primary chords for any major key are the I, IV and V chords of its corresponding major scale. For E Major the primary chords are: E, A, B and B7. From the primary and secondary chords of a major key, countless songs and chords progressions can be played.

Secondary Chords - Ab Major

The secondary chords for any major key are the II, III and VI chords of it's corresponding major scale. For Ab Major, the secondary chords are: Bbm, Cm and Fm. From the primary and secondary chords of a major key, countless songs and chords progressions can be played.

Common Chord Progressions for the Key of E

Common chord progressions for the key of E. Using the primary and seconday chords for the key explore these common chord progressions for the key of E.

Common Chord Progressions for the Key of F

Common chord progressions for the key of F. Using the primary and seconday chords for the key explore these common chord progressions for the key of F.

Clawhammer `Ukulele Basics- Clawhammer Ukulele 2nd Edition

People have asked me about Clawhammer style. That is not really a style I have master, although I can teach it.

Chord a Day, February 29th - ?

Learn a new Ukulele chord every day of the year. The chord for February 29th is ( see ya' in 2020).

Chord a Day, March 30th - F7#9#5

Learn a new Ukulele chord every day of the year. The chord for March 30th is F7#9#5.

Primary Chords - F Major

The primary chords for any major key are the I, V and chords of its corresponding major scale. For F Major, the primary chords are: F, Bb, C and C7. From the primary and secondary chords of a major key, countless songs and chords progressions can be played.

Secondary Chords - E Major

The secondary chords for any major key are the II, III and VI chords of its corresponding major scale. For E Major the secondary chords are: F#m, G#m and C#m. From the primary and secondary chords of a major key, countless songs and chords progressions can be played.

Secondary Chords - Bb Major

The secondary chords for any major key are the II, III and VI chords of it's corresponding major scale. For Bb Major the secondary chords are: Cm, Dm and Gm, From the primary and secondary chords of a major key countless songs and chords progressions can be played.

Reading Music on `Ukulele Series - Primer

There are a few things in music that students and players avoid. These are things like learning to read and knowing the notes of their own instrument. It is hard on guitar - but not so hard on ukulele. With the right guidance and plan of attack. IT IS EASY.

Rock Light

The Rock Light Strum has applications in Light Rock, Pop, and Country.

Chord a Day Videos - February

The videos for all of February's Chord A Day lessons in one place.

Mixolydian Progression

The Mixolydian progression - "Sweet Home Alabama" by Lynyrd Skynyrd: This iconic rock song is built around a Mixolydian-based guitar riff. The chords used in the main progression are D-C-G, which are characteristic of the Mixolydian mode in the key of D.

Chord a Day, February 25th - Cmaj9

Learn a new Ukulele chord every day of the year. The chord for February 25th is Cmaj9.

Chord a Day, March 5th - G7

Learn a new Ukulele chord every day of the year. The chord for March 5th is G7.

Chord a Day, March 9th - B7

Learn a new Ukulele chord every day of the year. The chord for March 9th is B7.

Common Chord Progressions for the Key of Bb

Common chord progressions for the key of Bb. Using the primary and seconday chords for the key explore these common chord progressions for the key of Bb.

Common Chord Progressions for the Key of D

Common chord progressions for the key of D. Using the primary and secondary chords for the key explore these common chord progressions for the key of D. D is one of the common keys that include C, G, *D, A, and E.

Harmonic Analysis - Cycles

Harmonic Analysis is the understanding of the functional sequence of chords. It is the process used to analyze the harmonic structure of a progression, song, or composition. This analysis is then used to make scale selections for improvisation and chord substitution. This lesson covers the Cycles harmonic principle.

Common Chord Progressions for the Key of Ab

Common chord progressions for the key of Ab. Using the primary and seconday chords for the key explore these common chord progressions for the key of Ab.

Repeating Note - Four Note, Single String Fingering Drills Starting with Fingers 2-1-1-2

Building on the single note, 1, 2, 3, and 4 finger basic gymnastics. Now with repeating note or two. This lesson starts with the finger combination: 2-1-1-2.

Repeating Note - Five Note, Single String Fingering Drills Starting with Fingers 3-2-1-2-3

Building on the single note, 1, 2, 3, and 4 finger basic gymnastics. Now with repeating note or two. This lesson starts with the finger combination: 3-2-1-2-3.

C/Db Movable Form Ukulele Chords

The "C/Db Movable Form Ukulele Chords", based on the open position "C, Cm, and C7" chords allow you to transpose these to any key. The movable form chords are the next step after learning the core open position chords.

The A/Bb Movable Barre Form Chord

The "A/Bb Movable Barre Form" chords are movable form barre chords based on the open position A, Am, A7 and Am7 chords. With the root on string five, these chord can be transposed to ANY key.