Hi Debsy, I thought I'd start another thread rather than hijack the hobbies one.
I started learning to play the ukulele this time last year as a complete novice, I've never played any musical instrument before and I can't read music......luckily not necessary for the uke.
Get a soprano ukulele, that's the smallest and the 'bog standard' size, perfect for wee hands, you can easily get one for about £20 to £30 if you don't want to spend a fortune, that's what I started with.
However, I go to group lessons and soon found that like tent envy, there is a similar ukulele envy and before long I'd outgrown that uke and on the advice of my local guitar shop ( who have a good range of ukuleles) bought a Lanikai U21, apparently one of the more popular learner models, cost round £70-£80 but I also had to buy a cover for carrying it. I'm very happy with it.
The main difference I found between the two ukes was the strings. While the cheap uke had strings not dissimilar to fishing gut, big, chunky and sore on the fingers, the more expensive uke had Aquila Nylgut strings which are recommended and much kinder on the fingers ( I found) and I suspect if I played better, they'd sound better too !
Needless to say, I wasn't content with that ukulele and went on to buy a concert ukulele ( next size up) its black and its shiney but I don't get on with it at all. Much prefer the smaller sized soprano., so have gone back to that.
These are my observations as a complete novice, perhaps more experienced musicians would have other opinions. The only other thing I'd recommend is a tuner, you'll certainly get one for under £15.
------------- Zymocenosilicaphobia-excessive fear of an empty beer glass
' When I die, I will return to seek the moments I did not live by the sea'
Hi Thebiz, best of luck with the Uke, nice to make your own music. As for tuning, there are a number of online tuners out there but the site in the link below is one I use quite often for my Wife's 12 string guitar and her Mandolin. Simple to use and gets your ear in tune. The link given is for a Ukelele, other instruments are there if needed. Uke Tuner
Keep at it, recent research shows learning an instrument is great for the Brain.
Thanks so much The Biz - husband has a few guitars so thought I'd do something my hands can cope with! Will definitely take your advice...looking fwd to it now!
If you like the Aquila Nylgut strings, you really should try the Super Nylgut strings also by Aquila. I play guitar and uke in a swing band. The Super Nylgut strings add a mellowness to the sound that is unbelievable.
All the best with the uke, it is a really great instrument.
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Topic: FAO debsy...ukulele
