Challenges You Might Face while learning the ukulele
The little, four-stringed instrument known as the “jumping flea” has its roots in Hawaii from the late 19th century. Although small, the ukulele has a powerful sound and has grown in popularity recently. Its learning always been considered as somewhat difficult task.
Many individuals are interested in learning how to play the ukulele and are concerned about How Hard is it to Learn the Ukulele. The difficulties and benefits of learning the ukulele and what it takes to master it, will be discussed in this article.
Along with learning the ukulele’s strumming patterns, you should also concentrate on other aspects like all the chords and the rhythm. The ukulele is one of those stringed instruments that takes much effort and attention to learn.
How Hard Is learning the Ukulele?
Ukulele is among the most popular musical instruments in the world. The primary reason that ukulele is popular is that learning the ukulele is not hard for most people. Those who have previous experience with any stringed instrument can learn the right ukulele too quickly.
However, nothing in this world is easy to do. Even eating gets complicated at times. Ukulele learning is also a mind-tiring game. Every ukulele learner faces a bundle of hurdles lying in his way. The most fundamental problems of almost every ukulele learner are as follows.
Getting the right Uke
If you are a beginner and you want to learn how to play ukulele, you should have the right uke before you start. Uke is an easy instrument to play if you are with the right instrument. No matter how much music skill do you have, if you don’t feel comfortable with the uke, you can’t produce the best music.
For a beginner, we would recommend a ukulele with a price range of 200 to 500 dollars. These are easy to play and they don’t have many complexions. Too many cheap ukuleles are also available, but they are of no use for a music passionate ukulelist. The sound quality of these ukuleles is also poor.
Taking A Start
You might be thinking about how stupid it is if someone finds it difficult even to start learning the uke. However, it is valid for some people with a special case. Two types of people find it hard to start learning the ukulele.
The first ones are those unaware of the musical instruments and haven’t even thought of learning them in life. The second group comprises people who have previously failed in learning other stringed instruments.
Most people ask whether it is better to learn a guitar or a ukulele first. With our experience, we can say that guitar players can easily get used to the ukulele. However, those who are entirely new to the strings may find it hard to learn the ukulele.
With a bit of courage, one can start learning the ukulele. After that, you may need patience and hard work to be a professional in playing it.
Sore Fingers
Every beginner ukuleleist experiences this terrible thing. It is the biggest hurdle that every new ukuleleist experiences, especially those who have the first exposure to the strings. The regular brushing of fingers on the strings causes blisters or calluses on the fingertips.
Most ukulele learners report pain and cramps in their fingers muscles. It is evident as your tendons and ligaments are stretching in a very unnatural way every time you make chord shapes.
Tips For Dealing With the Sore Fingers
Here are some tips that may help you pass the horrifying barrier of sore fingers pain. These tips are indeed the best as we have suggested them to many ukuleleists, who reported positively.
- Feel the music and not the pain
- Practice regularly
- Do some stretching exercise daily
- Don’t use plasters on your fingertips while playing.
Changing the Chords while strumming
Though many people say that the ukulele is the easiest strumming instrument, it’s not if you don’t know about the chords. There are only four strings on the ukulele, and to be a pro, you only need to learn a specific strumming pattern.
The problem arises when it comes to changing the chords while you are playing the uke. Most people find it extremely difficult to switch to other chords or strumming patterns while playing the uke. However, with continuous struggle and determination, anyone can make it possible to change the chords while strumming.
Strong Determination Required
Some beginners always think about “how long does it take to learn the ukulele.” They are determined, but they want a shortcut. Learning the ukulele is not a game of shortcuts. The only thing you can do is work hard with regularity.
Many players are very determined when they start learning the ukulele. Unfortunately, the determination and eagerness to learn the ukulele decrease with time as other life problems arise. Such ukulele students can never succeed in being professional ukulele players.
To overcome such a situation, it is advised to make a schedule at the very start of your lessons. Now, it is your commitment that will help you here. Be committed to your schedule and never miss a class or decrease your practice duration.
Singing While Playing
Singing and playing the ukulele together is a bit tricky and requires a lot of hard work and regular practice. Beginner ukulele players think they can quickly learn to play the ukulele while singing. However, they feel very demoralized when they can’t do it.
Singing and playing ukulele together is harder, even for the most professional ukulelists. So, for a beginner, we would suggest you should practice both singing and playing separately. Once you get some grip over these, try to sing easy songs while playing a few chords.
Playing your loved song
Once you learn strumming while singing a song, it’s still not easy to get used to all the songs. Especially those songs, which you love. The method seems quite easy, but when comes to practicing it, it’s very hard. All you have to do is to follow the following steps:
- The first step is to learn the chords of the song you are going to sing. It’s better to select an easy song.
- Next, select a strumming pattern that suits your song.
- After practicing the chords and strumming patterns separately, it’s now time to do them at the same time. Combine them and enjoy the unexplainable taste of music.
How To Learn the Ukulele Quickly
Almost every ukulele learner wants to be a professional ukuleleist quickly, but they can’t. If you are interested in learning the ukulele fast, you should follow the below-given tips. In the end, you’ll come to know how easy is the ukulele journey.
Select the Best Teacher
Selecting the best teacher is the basic step for learning the ukulele. There are many professional ukulele instructors out there with years of experience under their belt. Several ukulele teaching websites are also offering services through videos and live calls.
A ukulele instructor will determine your learning curve. If you have the right instructor, even a young child will feel comfortable with the strings. A good instructor analyzes your progress and then determines what should you focus on to get the correct rhythm.
Learn One At A Time
Professional ukuleleists play the ukulele while singing. It requires a lot of practice to keep both the song and the music in a single frame. When a beginner tries the same, he mixes everything, and the music loses its taste.
Beginner players should start practicing one at a time. Initially, practice separately for singing and playing the ukulele. Then gradually begin practicing short chords with the lyrics. In this way, you can learn how to sing and play ukulele simultaneously.
Focus the Chord Shapes
Chord shapes are among the basics of learning the ukulele. A combination of different ukulele chords will make you learn how to play different songs on the ukulele. If you are a beginner ukulele player, you should use the ukulele chord chart to get help, while strumming.
Frequently Asked Questions:
In this section, we will answer a few FAQs to clear your mind further.
How long does it take to learn the ukulele?
It depends on how determined you are and also your hard work. Overall, learning the ukulele is not a time-consuming task if you put in a little more effort. With regular practice, one can play the ukulele professionally in just 3 to 6 months.
Those previously in touch with similar musical instruments such as a guitar can learn it more quickly. The basic chords are easier, and even beginners can learn them in weeks or a month.
Is the ukulele worth learning?
Learning ukulele is worth it for those who love it. It is a great instrument that is mainly seen in family or social gatherings. Also, those who want to acquire playing the ukulele as a profession know the actual price of learning the ukulele.
Is the ukulele really easy?
Learning the basic chords of the ukulele is easier to learn, but being a professional might take some time. Ukulele is easier for those who are already familiar with a guitar or any other stringed musical instrument.
How should a beginner learn the ukulele?
A beginner should use some tips if he wants to learn the ukulele quickly. The primary thing is your determination and hard work. After that, try using a smaller ukulele first. Learn the basics such as chord formation and strumming.
One more thing that motivates you to learn a ukulele is your passion for it. If you are passionate about learning a ukulele, you will find it extremely fun. A company of some friends learning the ukulele can make your classes even more fun and easier.
Final Words
In conclusion, while learning the ukulele might be difficult, it can also be a very fulfilling experience. There is no worry to think how hard is it to play a ukulele, regardless of how experienced you are. Anyone can learn to play the Ukulele and take pleasure in it.
For all ages, the ukulele is a fun and easy-to-learn instrument that offers a wonderful outlet for creative expression and stress relief. So, if you’re prepared to start learning the ukulele, grab your instrument and embark on your adventure!