Freebird Music Studios

The ukulele is one of the best instruments to start your musical journey! It’s small, easy to learn, and brings instant joy with just a few simple chords. Whether you’re a child, a teen, or an adult, the ukulele is a fun and approachable way to make music.

How to Hold Your Ukulele

Holding your ukulele properly is the first step to playing comfortably. Hold the neck of your ukulele with your left hand. Next, rest the back body of the ukulele against your chest or stomach, keeping it close so it doesn’t slide around. Your strumming arm (right arm) should rest lightly on the top edge of the instrument, while your left hand supports the neck. Hold it gently—no need to grip too tightly!

How to Do a Basic Strum

Strumming is what gives the ukulele its bright, happy sound! Our right hand is the strumming hand. Start with a simple down strum using the nail of your index finger or the pad of your thumb. Strum down across all four strings in a steady motion and try to keep a relaxed hand. Try keeping a beat by counting “1, 2, 3, 4” as you strum.

Your First Chords: C, F, and G

With just three easy chords, you can play dozens of songs!

C Chord: Place your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the bottom (A) string. The rest of the strings are open.

F Chord: Put your index finger on the 1st fret of the third (E) string and your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the top (G) string.

G Chord: Make a triangle shape with your fingers—place your index on the 2nd fret of the second (C) string, middle finger on the 2nd fret of the fourth (A) string, and ring finger on the 3rd fret of the third (E) string. This is a trickier chord than the others, but with practice you’ll get it!

Easy Songs to Try

Now that you know your first chords, try playing these simple songs:

“Are You Sleeping/Frere Jacque” (C chord only)

“The Itsy Bitsy Spider” (F and C)

“The Wheels on the Bus” (C and G)

Join Our Strummingbirds Ukulele Program!

Want to learn more? Our Strummingbirds Ukulele Program is designed for kids ages 5-8 and introduces young musicians to the joy of playing ukulele! In this fun and engaging class, children will:

🎵 Learn basic chords and strumming patterns

🎵 Play fun, familiar songs

🎵 Gain confidence in music-making

🎵 Make new friends through music!

Freebird Music Studios also offers private and semi-privatae music lessons in ukulele, piano, violin and voice. If you’re over 8 years of age and are interested in these options please reach out anytime!

Let’s start strumming and singing!