Description of ukeleles

1. Ukuleles
Shaped like a guitar but a smaller size, the Ukulele originates from Hawaii and is
a member of the lute family.
It is made of wood and has 4 strings that stretch across the front.
Pricier ukuleles can be made from hardwood, such as mahogany, while lower-
priced types can be made from lighter woods, like plywood.
Types of Ukulele
Ukuleles come in a range of tones, indicating the pitch of the strings. The four
main types of ukulele are the concert, tenor, baritone and the soprano.
 Tenor – the middle-sized ukulele, which has more frets, meaning it can be
played at higher tones than some other types.
 Concert - has wider spaces between the strings and the frets, which
beginners may find easier to play.
 Baritone - produces the deepest tone and is the largest of all the ukuleles.
 Soprano - the smallest type of ukulele, which makes it portable and
simple to play.
Benefits of Playing the Ukulele
The ukulele is light to carry and hold and is easy for fingers to move over the
strings.
As it is small, a ukulele is suitable for children who want to start learning a
musical instrument.
Taking Care of Your Ukulele
 The ukulele needs to be stored in a clean, dry place, away from radiators,
as heat from them can stretch the strings and change the sound over time.
 Left in storage, a ukulele can get dusty quite quickly, so use a dry cloth to
keep it clean and use it around each string.
 If the ukulele is propped upright, lean it with the strings facing forward.
 New strings are available to buy and are easy to assemble or a
professional can provide this service and tune them in correctly for a fee.

2. Accessories
 A ukulele usually comes with a case but this can also be bought separately
and can be made from either leather or fabric.
 A ukulele stand can be bought to hold your ukulele securely upright.
 Adaptable straps are available for those who play their ukulele standing
up.
 For more advanced ukulele players, a capo can be bought, which is held in
place over the strings to aid with playing more challenging chords in a
different key.
 Some people may invest in a ukulele tuner to get the strings in tune.