I was a drummer all my life and just picked up the ukulele in the past decade. I know nothing at all about theory or even where the individual notes are along the neck, but I think my rhythmic abilities are very good. When guitarists hear me play, they actually think I know what I'm doing and assume I have been a string man from the beginning. I can't pluck a melody or play a solo to save my life, though!
To cover up my shortcomings, I've actually developed the confidence to sing while I'm playing, which is something I could never do while I was playing drums professionally for 20 years plus. It has been freeing to not be so self-conscious and I credit the ukulele with helping me break out of a lot of my old insecurities.
Kind of similar story here. Drums are my lifelong instrument. Got paid to drum sometimes. Actually went 20 years without owning or playing a drum set. Did some fife and drum and pipe band drumming during that time though.
Started Uke back in 2009, after a few failed attempts at classical guitar. Started fingerstyle right off, because the Uke was a smaller, friendlier classical guitar, right? Besides, chords were hard! ( except C and A minor ).
Strumming and chords got better when I Started playing in a "Ukulele support group" once a month. Rochester NY peeps know about that.
I sing while playing also. I may post some vids sometime this year. Then you all can tell where I stand on that front...
I play and sing 2x a month at a nursing home nearby. Sometimes I use the Uke to add spice in music at Church. I will even play a kick drum while uking and singing .
I have started drumming again , even drumming and singing sometimes. The Uke has really transformed me as a musician, even as a person. My drumming used to be driven, often by what I was not as a drummer, instead of enjoying and making music with who I was. Now, the Uke, and the community and philosophy that go with it, has helped me stop competing , stop worrying about what I am not as a musician, singer, drummer, person , and just make the best music I can. It is wonderful, and much more fun!
I have learned more theory since taking up the Uke. I now know how chords are made, what chord progressions are, even how to write songs. And it all has happened gradually, and naturally. It is very haphazard, and I Study and search things out when I need or want to know them. Until then, I don't worry about it.
I am so thankful for music, the Ukulele, and this community. My life is greatly richer, and some people even enjoy the music I get to help create.