Learning an instrument is said to have a plethora of benefits, and I’m sure you can read about that in about 300 other articles just by googling, “benefits of learning an instrument”. But I mean you’re already here so: It alleviates stress, improves concentration, helps to build confidence and creativity, etc. etc. etc. I even read somewhere that it can improve your math skills. I mean, I’m not here to debate science, so that’s fine with me.
It’s easier said than done to learn an instrument. First of all- instruments are expensive. I think my family made payments on my clarinet that I played through school for three years! Second- you need to take on the task of teaching yourself- or you need to find lessons. Lessons are expensive and instruments are complex.
Here’s the point: if you’d like to take up an instrument, but what I’ve described has been holding you back, I really recommend trying out the ukulele!
It has four strings
… Think about it. If you can convince your fingers to manipulate only four strings, you’re good to go! There’s still so much you can do with the four strings- but there’s so many chords that only require you to use one or two strings. There’s a million songs you can play with a simple C G A F chord progression.
It’s affordable
Ukuleles range from $25-$2,500. And everywhere in between. You can get a fairly decent one for $75-$100 that will last you a long time.
It’s simple to teach yourself
You could get a lesson book if you really wanted, but if you have an ear for beats and rhythm- then all you really need somebody to teach you is the chords. There’s also so many websites that offer the exact chords to pretty much any song you can imagine. But, if you need somebody to teach you- The Ukulele Teacher on YouTube is great. (Click his photo for a link to his channel!)
It’s unique
Using the ukulele to play any song gives it a different feel, and I absolutely love it. It’s so much fun to pick out a song you like- learn to play it, and see how it sounds in its new body.
Learning any instrument is challenging, but I’ve found that learning the ukulele has been the most lighthearted, refreshing experience so far.
Try it, try it, try it.
