Ukulele is a small, four-stringed instrument from the guitar family, and is a popular choice for beginners due to its compact size, affordability, and relatively simple learning curve. Whether you’re an adult or a child, the ukulele is a versatile instrument that can fit comfortably in your arms and produce a delightful sound. In this article, we are going to help you go through different choices available for the best ukulele for beginners.
Now, without further ado, let’s get started.
Anatomy of a Ukulele
The ukulele bears a striking resemblance to the guitar, but it is smaller in size and has four strings instead of six. The main parts of a ukulele include the body, neck, fretboard, and headstock.
Body:
The body of the ukulele is hollow and is the primary source of the instrument’s sound. It’s typically made of wood, but you can also find ukuleles made from plastic or other materials.
Neck:
The neck is the long, thin part of the ukulele that you hold when you’re playing. It’s attached to the body of the ukulele at one end and the headstock at the other.
Fretboard:
The fretboard, or fingerboard, is located on the front side of the neck. It’s divided into sections by thin metal strips called frets.
When you press a string down onto a fret, it changes the pitch of the note when you strum the string.
Headstock:
The headstock is located at the top of the neck. It holds the tuning pegs, which you turn to tighten or loosen the strings and adjust their pitch.
Things to Consider When Buying a Ukulele:
Following are a few things that you need to consider when shopping a ukulele as a beginner:
Size and Type:
Ukuleles come in four main sizes: soprano, concert, tenor, and baritone. Soprano and concert ukuleles are usually recommended for beginners due to their smaller size and easier handling.
The soprano is the smallest and has a bright, jangly sound, while the concert size is slightly larger and has a fuller sound with more bass. Tenor and baritone ukuleles are larger and have a deeper tone.
Quality:
The quality of the ukulele is crucial. Look for a ukulele with a solid wood top, as this will produce a better sound than a laminate top.
Solid wood ukuleles are generally more expensive but offer superior sound quality. Laminate ukuleles, on the other hand, are more affordable and durable, making them a good choice for young children or for travel.
Accessories:
Consider buying accessories such as a tuner, a case, and teaching materials.
A tuner is important to keep the ukulele in tune, a case will protect it from damage when not in use, and teaching materials will help guide your learning process.
Strings:
The type of strings on the ukulele can significantly affect the sound. Most ukuleles come with nylon strings, which are soft and gentle on the fingers, making them ideal for beginners.
As you progress, you might want to experiment with different types of strings to find the sound you like best.
Top 10 Picks for Beginner Ukulele
1. Kala Satin Mahogany Concert Ukulele with White Binding (KA-C)
The Kala Satin Mahogany Concert Ukulele brings together the elegance and simplicity of traditional design and modern craft. Its concert size is perfectly suited for both beginners and experienced players, delivering a fuller and deeper tone compared to its smaller soprano cousin.
Made from premium mahogany, the body of the ukulele emanates warmth and depth, producing a rich, full sound that is both crisp and resonant. The satin finish not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also allows for a smooth, comfortable playing experience.
The ukulele’s white binding is a striking feature, contrasting beautifully with the dark mahogany and adding a touch of sophistication. It not only enhances the instrument’s visual appeal but also provides added durability.
The Kala Satin Mahogany Concert Ukulele (KA-C) features a mahogany neck and a walnut fingerboard, providing a comfortable and responsive playing surface. The 18 silver nickel frets are well-spaced for easy playability, and the Graph Tech NuBone® nut and saddle ensure the instrument remains in tune for longer, delivering consistent sound quality.
This ukulele is equipped with Aquila Super Nylgut® strings, known for their superior tone and playability. They resonate beautifully, complementing the mahogany body to produce a well-rounded sound with impressive projection.
In summary, the Kala Satin Mahogany Concert Ukulele with White Binding (KA-C) is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a high-quality ukulele. Whether you’re strumming in a hammock on the beach or practicing in a studio, this instrument promises to deliver outstanding performance and a stylish appearance.
2. Kala KA-15S
The Kala KA-15S Satin Mahogany Concert Ukulele is a testament to Kala’s commitment to quality and affordability. As part of Kala’s flagship Mahogany collection, the KA-15S has become an industry standard, offering a traditional design highlighted with a satin finish.
The Kala KA-15S is a concert-sized ukulele, which is slightly larger than the standard soprano size. This makes it a great choice for players who want a fuller sound and more room on the fretboard.
The top, back, and sides of the ukulele are made from mahogany, a wood known for its warm, rich tone. The neck is also made of mahogany, ensuring uniformity of tone throughout the instrument.
The ukulele is finished in satin, which not only looks beautiful but also enhances the natural resonance of the wood. The fingerboard is made of rosewood, a dense wood that provides a smooth playing surface for your fingers.
3. Donner DUC-1 and Lohanu LU-C
The Donner DUC-1 and Lohanu LU-C are also impressive choices for beginners.
The Donner DUC-1 is a concert ukulele that is highly recommended for beginners. It offers excellent fit, finish, playability, and tone. The DUC-1 comes with a nice gig bag, clip-on tuner, extra strings, and a strap, providing everything a beginner needs to start playing right away.
The construction on the DUC-1 is tight and clean. Attention to detail is excellent. For the price, the fit and finish on this uke are genuinely impressive.
The instrument is also very light, which is a good thing in the world of acoustic instruments. A lighter build allows the ukulele to resonate more freely, which leads to a bigger, warmer tone.
The DUC-1 has a loud, full tone with a nice low end. It has a great projection for a concert ukulele and sounds good both when strumming and when playing fingerstyle.
The action (string height) is nice and low, making it very comfortable to play right out of the box. Notes ring out clearly up and down the neck, with no high frets or buzzing.
4. Hricane UKS-1
The Hricane UKS-1 series is a testament to the fact that quality doesn’t always have to come with a hefty price tag. This ukulele series combines quality, craftsmanship, and playability into a surprisingly affordable package that is sure to impress both beginners and intermediate players alike.
The build quality of the Hricane UKS-1 is impressive, especially considering its price point. The ukulele is sturdy and well-crafted, with a wonderful tone that resonates well and brings out the best in your music. It’s a testament to the attention to detail and commitment to quality that Hricane brings to its instruments.
The playability of the Hricane UKS-1 is another of its strong points. The ukulele is easy to play, making it an excellent choice for beginners who are just starting their musical journey.
But don’t let its ease of use fool you – this ukulele also has enough depth and complexity to satisfy more experienced players.
One of the standout features of the Hricane UKS-1 is its tone. The ukulele produces a rich, full sound that is sure to impress.
Whether you’re strumming simple chords or picking out complex melodies, the Hricane UKS-1 delivers a sound that is both pleasing to the ear and expressive.
5. Fender Venice Soprano Ukulele, Black
Unleash your music with the Fender Venice Soprano Ukulele, an instrument that embodies the spirit of its namesake – the iconic Venice Beach of California. It’s a perfect choice for musicians seeking an instrument that combines Fender’s classic style, modern playability, and an affordable price tag.
The Venice Soprano Ukulele stands out with its sleek black finish, giving it an edgy, modern aesthetic. This ukulele’s compact, soprano-sized body is easy to handle, making it ideal for beginners or players with smaller hands.
Crafted from laminated basswood, the body of the Venice Soprano Ukulele produces a bright, lively tone with a well-balanced sound. The “C”-shaped maple neck and walnut fingerboard provide a comfortable grip and smooth playing experience.
This Fender ukulele features a no-tie bridge, making string changes easier than ever. This design innovation allows you to spend less time on maintenance and more on the joy of playing.
The Venice Soprano Ukulele is equipped with open-gear tuners, ensuring your instrument stays in tune, and delivering a clear, pitch-perfect sound for every performance. The synthetic bone nut and saddle contribute to the ukulele’s overall tonal quality, enhancing its bright, vibrant sound.
In all, the Fender Venice Soprano Ukulele, Black is more than just a musical instrument. It’s an embodiment of Fender’s commitment to quality and style. Whether you’re a beginner exploring the ukulele or an experienced player seeking a reliable travel companion, this ukulele is sure to inspire with its sound, playability, and unmistakable Fender charm.
6. Strong Wind Soprano Ukulele
Embark on your musical journey with the Strong Wind Soprano Ukulele, a beautifully crafted instrument designed with beginners in mind. This 21-inch ukulele is the perfect size for younger players or adults seeking a lightweight, portable instrument.
Constructed from high-quality basswood, the body of the Strong Wind Soprano Ukulele delivers a clear, sweet tone with a delightful resonance. Its smooth, natural finish showcases the wood’s beautiful grain, giving it a classic, timeless look.
The ukulele’s neck and fretboard offer a comfortable playing experience. The well-spaced frets make it easy for beginners to locate notes, and the smooth neck ensures a comfortable grip for long practice sessions.
This soprano ukulele comes pre-strung with high-quality strings, providing a bright and balanced sound. These strings are durable and maintain their tone over time, making them perfect for beginners who are just getting started with their ukulele journey.
The Strong Wind Soprano Ukulele comes with an added bonus – a gig bag. This lightweight, protective bag makes it easy to transport your ukulele to lessons, performances, or impromptu jam sessions. It also provides a safe and convenient storage solution for your instrument when not in use.
In summary, the Strong Wind Soprano Ukulele is an excellent choice for beginners. Its combination of high-quality materials, thoughtful design, and included gig bag make it a great value and an ideal first instrument for those beginning their musical journey. With the Strong Wind Soprano Ukulele, you’ll be making beautiful music in no time.
7. Luna Tattoo Concert Mahogany Ukulele with Gig Bag
Immerse yourself in the enchanting tones of the Luna Tattoo Concert Mahogany Ukulele, a unique instrument that reflects the artistry and craftsmanship synonymous with Luna’s brand. This ukulele is a perfect choice for players of all skill levels who appreciate excellent sound, playability, and artistic design in their instruments.
The Luna Tattoo Concert Ukulele boasts a full-bodied, concert-sized mahogany body that delivers a rich, warm sound. Mahogany’s natural tonal properties enhance the ukulele’s resonance, providing a deep and balanced tone that is both vibrant and soothing.
The defining feature of this ukulele is its stunning Hawaiian body ornamentation, inspired by traditional Polynesian body tattoo patterns. The tattoo design is monochromatic, etched in black against the brown body, adding a visually striking and unique aesthetic to the ukulele.
The neck of the Luna Tattoo Concert Ukulele is crafted from mahogany and is paired with a walnut fingerboard that ensures a smooth playing experience. The 19 frets are well-spaced, making it easy to navigate the fingerboard, whether you’re strumming chords or fingerpicking.
This ukulele comes pre-strung with high-quality strings that complement the mahogany body to produce a warm, full-bodied sound. The open-style tuners help maintain accurate tuning, ensuring your performances sound pitch-perfect.
To make it even more appealing, the Luna Tattoo Concert Mahogany Ukulele comes with a gig bag. This provides easy transportation and safe storage for your instrument, safeguarding it from dust and potential damage.
In conclusion, the Luna Tattoo Concert Mahogany Ukulele with Gig Bag is not just an instrument, but a piece of art. Its impressive sound, striking design, and included gig bag make it a fantastic value for anyone looking to explore the joy of playing ukulele.
8. Mahalo Ukuleles MR1OR Rainbow Series Soprano Ukulele
Brighten up your musical journey with the Mahalo Ukuleles MR1OR Rainbow Series Soprano Ukulele. This vibrant, fun, and high-quality ukulele is perfect for beginners, enthusiasts, and travelers alike, bringing a pop of color to your musical experiences.
The MR1OR Rainbow Series Soprano Ukulele, part of Mahalo’s renowned Rainbow Series, boasts a lively, eye-catching orange finish. Its bold color is sure to stand out, reflecting the joy and energy of ukulele music.
Constructed from Sengon wood, the body of this soprano ukulele is lightweight yet robust, producing a clear and bright tone that soprano ukuleles are celebrated for. Its compact size makes it easy to handle, especially for younger players or those with smaller hands.
The Mahogany neck, coupled with a Jabon fretboard, ensures a smooth and comfortable playing experience. The 12 brass frets are well-spaced and easy to navigate, perfect for learners mastering chords and finger positioning.
The MR1OR Rainbow Series Soprano Ukulele features Aquila Nylgut strings, known for their superior quality. These strings deliver a full-bodied sound, enhancing the overall tone of the ukulele. The gold-plated dolphin machine heads not only add a charming aesthetic touch but also ensure reliable tuning stability.
This ukulele comes with a handy carry bag, making it easy to take your music wherever you go. The bag offers protection for your instrument, shielding it from dust and potential damage.
In conclusion, the Mahalo Ukuleles MR1OR Rainbow Series Soprano Ukulele is a delightful mix of vibrant aesthetics, sound quality, and user-friendly design. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player looking for a fun addition to your collection, this ukulele promises to add a splash of color to your musical journey.
9. RockJam Premium Concert Ukulele Kit with Tuner
The RockJam Premium Concert Ukulele Kit is a comprehensive package designed to meet the needs of both beginner and intermediate ukulele players. This kit combines high-quality materials, functionality, and thoughtful extras to provide everything you need to start your ukulele journey.
The RockJam Concert Ukulele, the centerpiece of this kit, boasts a beautiful, full-bodied sound. Constructed from high-quality wood, this ukulele delivers a rich and vibrant tone. Its concert size offers a deeper and fuller sound compared to the smaller soprano ukulele, making it an excellent choice for those looking to expand their musical range.
The neck of the ukulele is designed for a comfortable grip, ensuring smooth transitions between chords. The fingerboard is well-designed with properly spaced frets, providing a responsive playing surface for both strumming and fingerpicking styles.
A standout feature of this kit is the included digital tuner. This easy-to-use device ensures your ukulele is always in perfect pitch, enhancing the overall sound quality and playing experience. It’s a valuable tool for beginners learning to tune their instrument and a convenient accessory for more experienced players.
The RockJam Premium Concert Ukulele Kit also includes a durable and sleek gig bag. This bag makes transporting your ukulele easy and safe, protecting your instrument from dust and potential damage. It’s also a convenient storage solution when the ukulele is not in use.
In summary, the RockJam Premium Concert Ukulele Kit with Tuner is an excellent choice for anyone keen to dive into the world of ukulele. With its quality ukulele, handy tuner, and protective gig bag, this kit offers great value and a solid foundation for your musical journey.
10. HUAWIND 21 Inch Soprano Ukulele for Beginners
Enter the world of music with the HUAWIND 21 Inch Soprano Ukulele, a beautifully-crafted instrument designed specifically with beginners in mind. It offers a great combination of quality, affordability, and user-friendly features, making it an excellent starter instrument for those new to the ukulele.
This soprano ukulele boasts a compact and lightweight design, making it perfect for younger players or those with smaller hands. The 21-inch size is also ideal for musicians on-the-go, as it can easily be taken along for travel, beach outings, or jam sessions with friends.
The body of the HUAWIND Soprano Ukulele is made from high-quality basswood, known for producing a bright and cheerful sound. The natural finish of the wood gives the ukulele a classic, timeless appeal that will resonate with musicians of all ages.
The neck of the ukulele, made from sturdy and durable maple, ensures a comfortable grip and easy playability. The well-spaced frets on the fingerboard make it easy for beginners to learn chords and progress in their playing skills.
This ukulele comes pre-strung with four advanced carbon nylon strings. These strings are known for their durability and ability to hold their tune, even after hours of playing. They provide a soft touch and produce a clear, sweet sound that is characteristic of soprano ukuleles.
The HUAWIND 21 Inch Soprano Ukulele offers an excellent introduction to the world of music. With its quality construction, comfortable playability, and beginner-friendly design, this ukulele is a great choice for those looking to start their musical journey.
References:
- Tranquada J., King J. The ‘ukulele: a history. – University of Hawaii Press, 2012.
- Greenberg M. The Ukulele in Your Classroom: The ukulele is an ideal instrument for general music classes. Marvin Greenberg explains how this Hawaiian instrument can help you teach music skills and concepts //Music Educators Journal. – 1992. – Т. 79. – №. 3. – С. 43-48.
- Stillman A. K. Hula Ku’i: A Tradition in Hawaiian Music and Dance. – University of Hawai’i at Manoa, 1982.
- Troutman J. W. Kika Kila: How the Hawaiian steel guitar changed the sound of modern music. – UNC Press Books, 2016.
- Johnson O. Musical Instruments of Ancient Hawaii //The Musical Quarterly. – 1939. – Т. 25. – №. 4. – С. 498-506.
Read also:
Guitar to Ukulele Chords: Step-by-Step Guide
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