Looking for the reasons why you should learn to play the ukulele?
Before we start, if you are interested to learn ukulele lesson online, please check one of the most highly rated programs – ArtistWorks Craig Chee and Sarah Maisel Ukulele Lesson (Video Exchange Learning Platform).
Whether you are interested in learning how to play the ukulele for school or for casual reasons, there are plenty of reasons why you should consider the ukulele as your number one instrument. Unlike other string instruments like the guitar, the ukulele is pretty easy to learn as a beginner. The ukulele can be a great choice for folk and non-folk musicians alike and it has huge benefits for both the young and elderly.
Read also: Websites to Learn Ukulele Online
The benefits of playing the ukulele are varied from the immense social benefits associated with the instrument to its health benefits. Furthermore, the ukulele can be applied in traditional musical creations, as well as in modern ones. If your interest in the ukulele has been piqued, here are 10 more reasons why you should learn to play the ukulele:
10 Reasons Why You Should Learn to Play the Ukulele
- Ukuleles are affordable
Buying a ukulele, unlike other instruments like pianos and guitars, will not put a dent on your wallet. You can easily locate a quality new ukulele for a few dollars. Furthermore, ukuleles come in different shapes and sizes, so you can simply pick one that suits your budget.
- They are easy for beginners to pick up
Ukuleles are lightweight, come in different shapes and sizes and are easy for beginners and young players to pick up and master. Ukuleles are great starter instruments for young students because its strings are easier to manipulate compared to other more complicated string instruments like acoustic and electric guitar, which usually takes about 2 months before one gets used to the strings.
- A lot of songs can be adapted to suit the ukulele
A lot of contemporary songs can be adapted, paired down, or simplified easily on the ukulele. This means that if you intend to perform different songs across various cultures, the ukulele should be your number one instrument. This is why the uke is included in many band performances because it is easier to adapt different cover songs on the uke.
- They are great for songwriting
Ukes are used commonly in modern music and are often incorporated in albums. Movies, and in festivals. There are far more performing and writing options on the ukulele compared to other string instruments, which presents artists with limitless possibilities and creative options, which will enable you to explore and experiment with various genres.
- The ukulele will foster your self-expression
When you pick the ukulele, it will be your instrument, which also means that you can use it at any time. The more advanced you become at it, the more chances you will have to play any piece that you want. Just like artists are able to paint their emotions onto canvases, so can ukulele players when they perform and create emotional pieces. When done properly, playing the ukulele can help to relieve stress and foster your self-expression, therefore allowing you to lead a happier, healthier life.
- Ukuleles are fun and friendly
When you learn how to play the ukulele, you will be exposed to an array of music types like medieval, folk, classical and more, which can be fun to explore. Ukuleles are also low-pressure instruments that offer a great way for people to unwind and relax. The uke can provide many moments of enjoyment whether you are thinking of pursuing it professionally or as a hobby.
- It will increase your responsibility
Playing an instrument like the ukulele comes with certain responsibilities. For instance, you must maintain and care for your ukulele to keep it in excellent working condition. In addition to maintenance, other aspects of being responsible include keeping up with your practice schedule, which can be challenging, even for the most experienced professional.
- The chords are easy to memorize
The ukulele chords are easy to master and memorize thanks to the fact that the ukulele only has 4 strings. Difficult chord shapes in the guitar usually take months to master. However, the same chords are typically played using one finger in the ukulele, which makes them very easy to memorize and master.
- Ukuleles can allow you to explore other instruments
All the skills that you learn from the ukulele can be modified and transferred to several other string ones. If you intend on expanding your abilities to other stringed instruments such as the violin, then learning how to play the ukulele first is a great alternative. The ukulele is operated the same way as many other stringed instruments, except that it is slightly easier to master as a beginner, making it an excellent gateway instrument.
- To boost your team skills
The ability for one to work well in a team is a crucial aspect for success in life. Playing the ukulele will sometimes require you to work with others in an ensemble. When in an orchestra or band setting, you must find a way to cooperate and work with the people around you. Additionally, for you to be able to make beautiful music, each player in the section must learn how to coordinate and play together, which is a priceless skill to acquire.
Conclusion
Truly, there is no denying the ukulele’s charm. As one of the most featured instruments of modern times, you have no doubt heard it featured in many hits and popular albums. The ukulele is an excellent instrument to pick up because it is one of the easiest to learn and it is also quite portable and lightweight, which suits young learners perfectly.
The ukulele’s benefits also impact the brain and the body easing one’s stress levels and anxiety. The ukulele can also be used in a variety of genres, which makes it a great versatile instrument to pursue professionally.