There’s no denying the ukulele‘s charm. Its happy tone has helped it make a comeback in recent years, and you’ve no doubt heard it featured in popular songs on the radio, with artists like Grace VanderWaal, Ingrid Michaelson, Eddie Vedder and Merril Garbus of tUnE-yArDs showcasing the ukulele in recent hit albums.

The ukulele is a great instrument to pick up, whether you’re a guitar player looking for a little variety or even if you’ve never played an instrument before.

Here are seven reasons to start playing the ukulele now:

It’s Easy to Learn

The ukulele is easier to learn than the guitar and other stringed instruments like the mandolin. Its soft nylon strings are gentler on your fingertips and don’t create finger pain like guitars do. The small size reduces wrist tension because the notes are reachable without stretching. Plus, it only has four strings, which makes chord shapes and scales easier to learn.

It’s Affordable

Buying a ukulele won’t strain your wallet the way other instruments do. You can buy a nice new uke for around $100, and there are different body sizes (soprano, concert, tenor, baritone) to fit your needs and budget so you don’t have to stress about it getting damaged.

It’s Portable

It’s the ultimate travel instrument. You can take it virtually anywhere. Toss it in the back of your car. Take it to the beach. Bring it on a plane. Drummers and tuba players should be so lucky!

It’s Fun and Friendly

The ukulele is an incredibly social instrument because it’s not intimidating at all and can be played by anyone, young or old, musician or non-musician. Its happy, joyful tone make it a delight to play and accessible to everyone.

They Just Sound Great

The ukulele has a rich, warm sound that is sure to put a smile on your face and those around you. It’s a perfect pick-me-up whether in your bedroom by yourself or at a party with friends.

Songs Easily Adapt to the Ukulele

You can play most popular songs on the ukulele in a variety of genres (yes, even metal). And even those songs with complex chords can be pared down to the ukulele to make them easier to play because of the instruments four strings.

Guitar Technique and Knowledge Translates to the Uke

Guitar players can switch back and forth between the uke with ease. All of the scale and chord shapes that you learned on the guitar can be used on the ukulele, they just have different names.

By Dan Macy and Mike Duffy

Naperville Music – Your home for everything Ukulele.

Contact matt@napervillemusic.com