In this post we will be discussing about how to play electric ukulele. Now, before we start, let’s go over a few things. First of all, why would someone want to learn how to play electric ukulele? Well, there are many reasons. But the main one is that it sounds very different from an acoustic or regular ukulele.
Other than sounding different does it still have the same functionality as a regular/acoustic ukulele? Yes! you can use it for playing chords and melodies just like any other instrument out there.
What is an Electric Ukulele?
The electric ukulele is essentially a regular or acoustic ukulele but with the added feature of being able to plug in and amplify its sound. You can play it like any other instrument: by strumming it and plucking individual strings.
Electric Ukuleles come in various shapes and sizes. However, there are still four standard types which include Soprano, Concert, Tenor, and Baritone all depending on how large they are. The size doesn’t really matter when playing an electric ukulele. That’s because even though these instruments differ from each other, their necks have the same width. So whether you pick up a soprano or baritone they both operate exactly the same way; that goes for everything else too.
Now, how do you play an electric ukulele? Well it’s pretty much the same as how to play a regular/acoustic one except for three main differences. There is no need to plug in or switch out any batteries because.
They are both built into the instrument itself. Not only that but these instruments usually have active pickups which essentially means you can plug them in and connect directly with either a mixing board or pre-amplifier. Therefore, if anything goes wrong then just simply adjust your settings accordingly until everything sounds good again.
Also, these types of instruments always come equipped with digital effects such as reverb, delay, distortion, chorus, flange etc., however unlike other electronic devices these ones will not need you to use an external power source. That means that no matter how many effects you can connect to the pedals, it will not drain the battery.
ALSO READ: What Are the Ukulele Brands Made in Hawaii?
How to Play Electric Ukulele
When you want to play electric ukulele, you need to ensure that you follow the right steps. Below are some of the steps you need to take:
- Plug in your ukulele properly to the amplifier.
- Turn on your amp and make sure that you turn on the volume before you start playing your chords or melodies.
- After playing, turn off all of the equipment’s first before taking them out from their sockets. If you are not confident how to safely use these types of instruments then it might be best if you consult an expert for better advice instead!
Nowadays electric ukuleles have become quite popular among musicians. But did you know that there was a time when they were rare? In fact, this type of instrument was only introduced during 1930s through Hawaiian musician named Sol Hoopii who played using his Gibson KA-L which had been electricized.
Sometime in the 1950s, a musician by the name of Eddie Kamae was one of the first who began to play in public using an electric ukulele and thus it became widely known throughout Hawaii as well as other parts of the world.
Today there are many types of instruments available for musicians. You just need to make sure that you take your time when you want to buy one.Just remember what is most important how much money you have.
That will determine how badly or not how badly you want this instrument. This is because some brands may sound good but they might be too expensive. Therefore that means means you can buy something cheaper then upgrade later. Remember these things and keep on playing!
Conclusion
As you’ve from the steps above on how to play electric ukulele, the process is quite simple. Additionally, you also need to remember that budget is important. That’s because there are many uke brands which sound good but they might be too expensive. Instead, buy something that’s cheaper and upgrade once you have more funds. As always, keep on playing and enjoy your instrument.
