Lesson 1 January 19th 2011 5 notes and Mary Had A...

We started with some work on tuning:

Here is a simple outline:

Each of the strings is attached to a tuning peg. Turning the peg one way tightens the string and makes the string sound higher. Turning it the other way loosens the string and makes it sound lower.

There are four strings on a ukulele and they should be tuned to the notes G, C, E, and A.

NOTE: if you have a low G you will tune that string to the G note below middle C


You can tune a ukulele to a piano. (See diagram left) or you can use an online tuner like the one at this link:

http://www.get-tuned.com/ukulele_tuner.php


1. Play the reference note from the piano or online tuner a few times to get it in your head.
2. Play the corresponding string on the ukulele and decide if its’ note is too high or too low. If it is exactly the same, lucky you! Do nothing!
3. If the string is too high, loosen it until it is below the reference note and then tune up to the reference note.
4. f the string is too low tighten until it is the same as the reference note.
5. It is also possible to tune using an electronic tuner. These can be purchased at any music store for $20-30.

Keep in Mind when you are tuning with a tuner:
•You must be closer to the target note than any other note, otherwise the tuner will think you want to tune to the note you are closest to.
•Make sure your tuner is on chromatic mode.

Here is a little review of Mary Had a little Lamb: