However, ukelele is not only smaller, but it uses a completely different type of tuning, which means different chords and different playing techniques.
We are talking shape, size, principle of operations and generally how the instrument behaves. You can’t really blame them for thinking this way, but it’s always good to spread information and educate those who lack knowledge.Īn ukelele shares a lot of similarities with an acoustic guitar – more specifically the classical variety. Now that we know a bit about how this instrument came to existence, let’s talk a bit about how ukulele works, and what makes it so unique.Ī lot of folks whose knowledge about stringed instruments ends at the display of their local guitar store have a lot of misconceptions about ukuleles.įor starters, they will think it is nothing more but a small guitar. Once it was pretty much established as a national instrument of Hawaii, it didn’t take long before the ukulele craze hit the United States, and later the entire world. The story of ukulele from that point in time developed naturally. King Kalakaua, who was seen as the savior of Hawaiian national identity, but also a great aficionado of arts in general, found out about ukulele and insisted on it being played during royal events.Īs it often happens, what is cool in king’s court quickly becomes cool outside of it. The explanation for both of these questions is fairly simple, though. However, that doesn’t explain why the locals became so fond of it, and it definitely doesn’t give insight as to how ukulele became such a big part of the Hawaiian culture. Needless to say, ukulele became an instant hit. The first official ukulele was constructed by three cabinet makers, who wanted to create something new and exciting. First they introduced some features from other similar stringed instruments which were popular back in the homeland, only to finally form the direct predecessor to the modern day ukulele. That comes as a no surprise since most of the immigrants came from Madeira, and folks from Madeira loved their music.Īs time went by, now already settled immigrants started modifying the machete. It was a simple instrument that featured four metal strings, but the locals simply fell in love with it. One of those innovations was a small stringed acoustic instrument called machete de braga. When new markets opened in California, plantation owners needed to spread their business to meet the growing demand.īecause of this, a large number of workers from Portugal started arriving to the island and the Portuguese community grew from mere 1% to a much larger number.Īs it usually happens, when immigrants arrive, they bring a part of their culture with them. Origins and History of Ukuleleīack in 1878, Hawaii was one of the few places in that part of the world which were capable of producing large quantities of sugar cane. Some readers might find the history of Ukelele to be a bit boring, but it’s an important part of understanding what this instrument is all about. So, where should we begin? There is a lot of ground to cover, hence starting from the very beginning seems to be the most logical choice. These and many other questions are what prompted us to write this extensive article about this tiny acoustic instrument with a huge sound.īy the time we are done, you should know everything you need to know about the ukulele. With all that said, what is Ukulele? What kind of Ukuleles are out there? Where did Hawaiians even find the idea to build such an instrument? These days, it’s an instrument that brings joy to thousands of people around the globe. Over time, the instrument has spread out from Hawaii and ultimately managed to reach just about every corner of the world. Originated in Hawaii, the ukulele has played, and still plays a valuable role in the culture of this island. When you purchase through links in our articles, we may earn an affiliate commission.Ī ukulele is one of those instruments that are quite unique in their nature.
Consordinis articles are written by musicians who independently research, test, and recommend the best instruments and products.
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