Why not get a ukulele this year? 🌴 Most guitarists have already admitted thinking about it, and those who don’t play a string instrument will certainly have space in their room or living room. Here are 10 good reasons to give it a go!
1. Playing the ukulele is easier than you think
The ukulele offers a great introduction into the world of string instruments. Anyone who always wanted to learn an instrument but never dared to try will find rapid success. And anyone who already plays an instrument will double their fun.
2. The ukulele fits right in your travel bag
Because of its modest size, it can easily fit in a backpack or suitcase. It’s the ultimate travel companion, and you won’t have to leave it behind whether you’re on a trip to Hawaii or a barbecue in the park.
3. You will make friends
Wherever you bring it, you will most certainly attract company, because the ukulele is a real eye-catcher. And when you can play actual songs, your audience will be impressed. The ukulele can turn strangers into friends within seconds.
4. You’ll join an amazing community
There are well over a thousand ukulele clubs spread across the world. Every year, numerous festivals attract visitors and stars who gather to jam and share their love for the instrument. In this community, all are welcome, and making music with strangers leads to unique encounters and new friendships.
5. A ukulele need not be expensive
The ukulele is one of the least expensive instruments for entering the world of music. Even with a small budget, you can afford one, and the maintenance costs are almost negligible. The strings usually last a long time.
6. The ukulele has no limits
You’ll find a large selection of ukuleles on our site, and no matter which you choose, you’ll be able to play any style of music on it. It’s also the perfect accompaniment for singing. Ever tried writing your own song?
7. The ukulele is perfect for children
Children love to sing, and the ukulele offers a simple way to make music with them. You’ll be surprised at its great educational potential, and its small size is perfect for little hands.
8. The ukulele will find your Zen
What’s better than taking a few minutes to escape the daily hustle? Playing a few chords or a simple melody on the ukulele will help you relax and reset.
9. Playing the ukulele opens up new horizons
The unique sound of the ukulele adds a special touch to ensemble play. With a model equipped with a pickup, you’ll even stand out on big stages.
10. Playing the ukulele makes you happy
Hand a ukulele to a friend who has never played one, and they’ll smile immediately. No one can resist its charm. Try it yourself – playing the ukulele makes you happy!
More about the ukulele
For more on the ukulele:
Ukulele Advice
Have questions about the ukulele or specific models? We’ll be happy to help. Send us an email or call. Our guitar department is ready to assist.
- gitarre@thomann.de
- Arrange a phone consultation with our experts.
- Or call us directly at 09546-9223-20.
Things to know about the ukulele
Like many other instruments, the ukulele is available in different sizes and therefore pitches. As one of the smallest of its kind, the soprano ukulele is by far the most common. Thanks to its compact dimensions with a scale length of approx. 35 cm, the soprano uke fits in any luggage.
Featuring a scale length about 3.5 cm longer than that of its little sister, the concert ukulele has a slightly longer scale (about 3.5 cm) than its smaller sibling, providing a bit more finger space and a slightly deeper sound. It’s also easier to play due to its more comfortable finger spacing.
The tenor ukulele is also a very popular size. With a 43 cm scale, it offers more room for sonic variation, especially in the bass range. Thanks to the wider fret spacing, the fretboard accommodates bigger hands without the fingers getting in the way of each other.
While the baritone ukulele is somewhat more exotic, it is a popular choice for guitarists looking to make the switch. At a scale length of approx. 51.5 cm, the open strings are almost as long as those of a 1/2-sized classical guitar. Also, the baritone uke is tuned to d-g-b-e like the upper four strings of a guitar.
Two extremes are the sopranino ukulele and the bass ukulele – the former being the smallest, the latter the biggest. And with such contrasting dimensions, you might think that the bass ukulele doesn’t really fit in with its tiny relatives. Quite the contrary: it is very sociable and plays an important role in ukulele orchestras, laying a solid foundation for the rest of the bunch.
Purely acoustic or electrified
As an unamplified acoustic instrument, the ukulele is limited in volume. This means that it can easily be drowned out when playing with others. That’s why electric ukuleles began to appear a long time ago. Available in a wide range of (sometimes extravagant) designs, electric ukuleles are definitely setting new trends – for example in the form of solid-body electric ukuleles. An alternative that could be really interesting for you.
Ukulele – the jumping flea travelling the world
With its unmistakable sound, the ukulele evokes memories of white sandy beaches and traditional Hawaiian flower leis. Most people associate the instrument with the Polynesian archipelago now known as the “Aloha State” of the USA. However, legend has it that it was actually introduced to Hawaii in 1859 by a Portuguese immigrant who had three talented cabinetmakers and musicians onboard his vessel, including a certain Manuel Nunez.
The Hawaiians were delighted and because they liked to show off their rapid fingers, they affectionately named the instrument “ukulele”, which translates to “jumping flea”. Beautiful instruments were crafted from the wood of the local koa acacia tree, which features an unusual grain. As its popularity grew, the uke later made it to North America, then back across the pond to England and, popularized by entertainer Stefan Raab, to Germany. There’s no denying that the ukulele has long since become a cult instrument across the world. Wherever it comes from.
Your Ukulele Stories
Do you play ukulele? Share your experiences with us! 🌴💬
Find all our ukuleles in the shop here!
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John says:
I found your article very useful. For me as a ukulele player it was interesting to read it. Thanks for sharing it with us. Keep up the good work.