Ukulele

Since its introduction to Hawai‘i in 1879, the ‘ukulele has been many things: a symbol of an island paradise; a tool of political protest; an instrument central to a rich musical culture; a musical joke; a highly sought-after collectible; a cheap airport souvenir; a lucrative industry; and the product of a remarkable synthesis of western and Pacific cultures. The ‘Ukulele: A History explores all of these facets, placing the instrument for the first time in a broad historical, cultural, and musical context. Drawing on a wealth of previously untapped sources, Jim Tranquada and John King tell the surprising story of how an obscure four-string folk guitar from Portugal became the national instrument of Hawai’i, of its subsequent rise and fall from international cultural phenomenon to “the Dangerfield of instruments,” and of the resurgence in popularity (and respect) it is currently enjoying among musicians from Thailand to Finland. The book shows how the technologies of successive generations (recorded music, radio, television, the Internet) have played critical roles in popularizing the ‘ukulele. Famous composers and entertainers (Queen Liliuokalani, Irving Berlin, Arthur Godfrey, Paul McCartney, SpongeBob SquarePants) and writers (Rudyard Kipling, Jack London, P. G. Wodehouse, Agatha Christie) wind their way through its history—as well as a host of outstanding Hawaiian musicians (Ernest Kaai, George Kia Nahaolelua, Samuel K. Kamakaia, Henry A. Peelua Bishaw). In telling the story of the ‘ukulele, Tranquada and King also present a sweeping history of modern Hawaiian music that spans more than two centuries, beginning with the introduction of western melody and harmony by missionaries to the Hawaiian music renaissance of the 1970s and 1980s.

The fast and easy way to learn how to play the ukulele With the help of Ukulele For Dummies, learning to play this popular string instrument at a basic level has never been easier. Now in a fully updated second edition, this hands-on, friendly guide provides everything you need to know to pick up a uke and get playing—fast. From purchasing a ukulele and the necessary accessories to making sense of simple chord progressions and playing in a variety of styles—including pop, folk, Hawaiian, and holiday favourites—the second edition of Ukulele For Dummies will have you creating beautiful music in no time. For anyone wishing to learn to play this fun, surprisingly versatile instrument, Ukulele For Dummies covers all the basics, from chords and strumming patterns to guidance on finger picking—and everything in between. Plus, you'll find tips to make certain chord changes easier, chords and tabs for popular Christmas and New Year songs, apps for mobile devices, the ten best ukulele chords, and so much more. Audio tracks are available via online download at Dummies.com, creating a total musical instruction package Features a ukulele buying guide for the novice Offers instruction in a variety of musical styles Provides finger-picking instruction and the chords and patterns you need to know With its simple and clear instruction, and inspiration on every page, the second edition of Ukulele For Dummies will have fans and first-time musicians making a big splash with this tiny instrument in no time.

From 1897 to today, this fascinating history of the ukulele, from its birth in Hawaii to its global popularity, also discusses the anatomy of this strange little instrument and includes a songbook with instructions on how to play it. Original.

Whether you want to play a few simple melodies or jam with other musicians, this helpful guide gives you the surest path from start to success.

This book is for the intermediate and advanced level players. It displays all chords in six tunings for the different sizes of the ukulele. of course, there are other books which show how to build chords, but when you are playing a new song, you need an almanac for a quick look over all the possibilities to play a certain chord. That leads you into arranging a song and creating your very own style of playing.

The benefits of music are monumental! Ukuleles are the perfect first instrument for kids to learn to play, and this book will show them why and how. Filled with basic instructions for holding positions, tuning, basic chords, and more, children will then learn and practice 24 songs, games, and activities. From songs about counting to songs about yoga, each exciting musical activity provides a rich and playful learning experience kids will love! Kid’s Guide to Learning the Ukulele is a must-have musical journey for children and parents or teachers alike – no prior experience or knowledge needed! Author Emily Arrow has over 10 years of experience working with children and teachers in music education. An award-winning children’s songwriter, an official Kala Brand Music Co. artist, and popular YouTube personality, her work has also been featured on SiriusXM’s Kid’s Place Live, as well as Sesame Street Studios.

(Berklee Guide). Play jazz ukulele! Learn the essential theory, concepts, and techniques to perform jazz. This book will help you to understand and play jazz harmonies and tension substitutions, and the principles for improvisation and accompanying other musicians. It includes traditional notation and tablature, and also introduces additional types of notation common in jazz. The accompanying online audio lets you hear the concepts and then practice them along with a jazz combo. By the end of the book, you will be able to play jazz ukulele in ensemble and solo settings.

This new book is designed for seniors who wish to learn to play the ukulele. Care has been taken to select repertoire familiar and appealing to a more mature audience and attention has been given to the pacing of the material. Basic chords are given and variety of songs and exercises make the learning fast and fun. Play along CD includes all songs taught in the book.

Take your ukulele playing to the next level - fast! - with hundreds of fun exercises, drills and practice tunes You have a ukulele, you know just enough to be dangerous, and now you're ready to do something with it. You're in luck: Ukulele Exercises For Dummies helps you become a better player. This practice-based book focuses on the skills that entry-level players often find challenging and provides tips, tricks and plenty of cool exercises that will have you creating music in no time that include: • Creating rock-steady strumming patterns and rhythms • Becoming a better fingerpicker with patterns, arpeggio exercises, and solo fingerpicking pieces • Expanding your fretboard knowledge and crafting your own rock, blues and jazz riffs and solos • Playing actual songs on the ukulele - everything from the classic ukulele tunes to the 12 bar blues! • Downloadable audio files of the exercises found in the book, providing you with a self-contained practice package No matter if you're a beginning ukulele player or you're wanting to stretch and improve your chops, Ukulele Exercises For Dummies puts you on your way to becoming a ukulele extraordinaire!

A wonderful tribute to the ukulele and its leading advocates, past and present.Contains seventeen classics and eight new tunes as well as an in-depth historical essay illustrated with original sheet music covers. Classic selections include: Yaaka Hula Hickey Dula; Where Did Robinson Crusoe Go with Friday on Saturday Night?; All That I Ask of You Is Love; They're Wearing 'Em Higher in Hawaii; Sierra Sue; Any Time; Pasadena; Somebody Stole My Gal; Blue; and more. All tunes are shown with complete lyrics and chord diagrams. Includes a select discography of audio's featuring ukulele artists and a list of uke web sites. Most of the songs heard in the feature film Stanley's Gig (2000) starring Faye Dunaway can be found in this book. Includes access toonline audio