Ukulele Basics

by Lorraine Bow and Alex Davis

Published 28 May 2012

Ukulele Basics is a landmark ukulele method for young beginners. Carefully designed for use in both individual- and group-learning contexts, Ukulele Basics supports players and teachers through the early stages of learning, providing the ideal foundation for budding musicians. From how to hold your ukulele, through basic chords and strumming patterns, to playing accompaniments and simple tunes, this carefully paced method provides a complete resource for aspiring players.

  • Suitable for absolute beginners aged 6+
  • Gradually introduces key musical concepts, tab and stave notation, simple chords and strums and tunes to pluck
  • Online audio of demos for all songs and chords as well as numerous backing tracks
  • Notes for teachers and tips for parents/carers to download.
  • Detailed lesson plans for selected songs can be found below

Ukulele Basics Repertoire

by Alex Davis

Published 30 June 2014

Ukulele Basics Repertoire offers a tempting assortment of children's songs, popular music, folk songs and film themes, specially chosen and arranged for young beginners aged 6+. Designed both to consolidate and further the techniques introduced in Ukulele Basics, this pocket collection introduces new skills and concepts gradually over the course of the book. It:

  • includes chordal arrangements of He's A Pirate, Greased Lightning, Hokey Cokey and The Animals Went In Two By Two;

  • explores new chords, strumming patterns and rhythms, including Dm, Bb, E7 and Gm chords and semiquaver rhythms;

  • provides opportunities for practising fast chord changes;

  • introduces new time signatures 6/8 and 3/2;

  • develops general musicianship; and

  • follows the fun but clear approach of the tutor book.

Practical and fun, this is an ideal resource for group and individual teaching and the perfect companion to Ukulele Basics.