All Available Lessons
indicates the lesson has downloadable PDF (based on membership level).
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".
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".
(Oh, My Darling) Clementine
Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "(Oh, My Darling) Clementine".
America (My Country 'Tis Of Thee)
Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "America (My Country 'Tis Of Thee)".
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.
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".
Can't Help Falling In Love
Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Can't Help Fallin In Love".
That'll Be The Day
Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "That'll Be The Day" by Buddy Holly.
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.
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?".
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.
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".
Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star
Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star".
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.
The Bear Went Over The Mountain
Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "The Bear Went Over The Mountain".
All I Have To Do Is Dream
Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "All I Have To Do Is Dream".
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.
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".
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?
26 Miles (Santa Catalina)
Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "26 Miles (Santa Catalina)".
Don't Get Around Much Anymore
Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the song: "Don't Get Around Much Anymore".
All The Things You Are
Harmonic Analysis (RMA) Worksheet for the jazz standard: "All The Things You Are".
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".
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.
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.
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".
QuickStart Scale Fingerings - A Blues Summary
Single sheet summary of the A Blues Scale fingerboard shapes for guitar in standard tuning.
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!!!
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.
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.
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 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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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...
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.