The Ukulele (pronounced “oo-ke-lay-lee”) derives it’s name from the Hawaiian language; it’s English equivalent is “jumping flea”. This is probably due to the rapid, jumping (flea like?) movement of your fingers over the strings of the instrument. It is technically classified as a stringed lute, and finds it’s true origins in Portugal – from which place immigrants brought it to Hawaii and it was renamed the Ukulele.
An Ukulele has 4 strings, typically tuned to C (G, C, E, A), but can be tuned other ways as well to produce different chord potentials. The Ukulele has only become truly popular since the beginning of the last century, gaining particular notoriety when it was used by Tiny Tim in “Tiptoe Through the Tulips”, and also used by Israel Kamakawiwo’ole in his famous rendition of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow”.
The Ukulele can be a great instrument for kids to learn because of it’s relatively simple layout, few number of strings, and the ease with which the strings can be pressed (typically the strings are nylon or gut strings instead of steel) Ukulele lessons will include music theory, scales, and musical instruction in the various genres in which an Ukulele is played today.
To sign up for Ukulele lessons, either email us ([email protected]), call us (971-227-4222), or use the contact form on our website. We will answer any further questions you have, and based on your address will recommend a teacher in your area. We will have the teacher contact you (usually the same day) and set up a free first lesson. After the free first lesson, if you decide you like the teacher, we will send you your billing information by email.
The Musicality Network is a Portland, Oregon based network of private music teachers, teaching a wide variety of instruments including Piano lessons, Guitar lessons, Drum lessons, Violin lessons, Voice lessons, and more! Our teachers can drive to your house, and we service the entire Portland Metro Area, including Vancouver, Clackamas, Troutdale, Gresham, Tigard, Beaverton, Tualatin, Hillsboro, Lake Oswego, West Linn, Oregon City and more!