Ukulele Chords for Beginners
Many people when beginning to learn the ukulele get overwhelmed by the shear number of chords that can be played. They sometimes wonder how many chords they have to learn before they can start playing songs. The answer is just three.
It may surprise you to learn that there are a huge number of songs you can play with just three chords. Some of the most popular and famous songs in the world use only three chords. Songs such as Wild Thing, Louie Louie and Johnnie B Goode all use the same basic three chord pattern.
How to Play A C Chord on the Ukulele
C is probably the first chord everyone learns on the ukulele. It's very simple to play.
First, find the a string on your ukulele (hint: it's the one nearest the floor). Press your ring finger on the string just behind the third metal bar on the neck of the ukulele (this is known as the third fret). Try playing this string by itself. Can you hear the note clearly? If not, try adjusting your finger a little and pressing down harder until you get a sound you are happy with.
Take the ring finger of your fretting hand a place it on the A string (the one nearest the floor) at the third fret.
Strum all of the four strings. There you have it, your first ukulele chord.
How to Play An F Chord on the Ukulele
The F chord is a little trickier since it requires two fingers to play. Firstly, take your index finger (or your pointer finger if you prefer) and press down on the E string (that's the second one up) at the first fret.
Next, take your middle finger and put it on the G string (the one nearest your head) at the second fret. You need to be very careful here that the underside of your middle finger doesn't touch any of the other strings. Make sure it's arched above them so that they ring out clearly when you strum.
How to Play A G Chord on the Ukulele
The G chord is a little harder still. It takes three fingers to play it.
First use your middle finger to hold down the A string at the second fret. Then take your index finger and place it at the second fret of the C string (the third string up). Finally, use your middle finger on the third fret of the E string.
Once you've got these three chords under your belt, you'll be well on your way to mastering ukulele chords.
About the Author: Learn more about ukulele chords.
Al Wood writes at Ukulele Hunt about the G String ukulele and Bushman ukulele.
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Print Article | Download PDF | 10 views | Jul 16 2008
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