Podcast #3 - Pinkie on C?

podcast Sep 15, 2020
 

1) How to tune ukuleles in the time of COVID? 2) Why use your pinkie to play the C chord? 3) What chords are you using to accompany the C scale?

Susan on "My Open Strings: Highlights"
I am starting with my grade 9s tomorrow. I tuned them all Friday afternoon but because of Covid I am not going to touch them right before they do or approach a student. Neither can they pass around the class tuners or tune each others. I sure hope we all tune by ear together.

James answers:
Good luck, Susan! I'm sending good vibes your way. It may be a blessing in the end... tuning one's own uke is a great skill. If you can help them to become more independent in that way, you're doing great!

--

Cynthia on "Rocky Mountain: Demonstration"
I notice that you play the C chord with your fourth finger. Is this necessary?

James answers:
It's really up to you. I like using the pinky because it means I can use the other fingers for ornaments and extra stuff (e.g. "rocking" to the F chord feels like less of a stretch). But it's up to you!

--

Dwayne on "The C Scale: Highlights"
Do you have notes you can share on what chords you're using to accompany in this demonstration? Some of them I can see & some of those I know. :)

James answers:
Sure thing, Dwayne. The most common progression to accompany is: C - G7 - C - F - C - F - G7 - C. It's not the only way to do it but it works nicely. Occasionally in this demo I'm using the 5-4-3-3 voicing of the C chord. But it's still C!
 
If you're looking for online uklele lessons, then you're in the best place! Head to Uketropolis for a variety of ukulele courses available from beginner, kids, jazz to advanced.

Stay in the Uke Loop!

Subscribe to the Uketropolis Gazette. Free arrangements, tips, interviews and more delivered to your inbox.

Close

Stay in the Uke Loop!

Get monthly teaching tips, learning strategies and interesting interviews delivered right to your inbox.