Beginner - Strumming
- Thread starter jtt041017
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Euclid
New member
I believe that the majority of players play with just their fingers and not a pick, though I think you CAN play with a pick if it feels more comfortable.
I just picked up my first uke yesterday actually so I am no expert. But coming from my guitar background I usually played with just my fingers in order to quickly switch from strumming and finger picking.
I would say use your fingers to strum, especially while learning if you can do it comfortably.
I just picked up my first uke yesterday actually so I am no expert. But coming from my guitar background I usually played with just my fingers in order to quickly switch from strumming and finger picking.
I would say use your fingers to strum, especially while learning if you can do it comfortably.
I always use my fingers, whether picking or strumming, I am fairly new, I did a little of both, but more strumming learning chords. I found a few very simple picking songs on the web and learned those too for some variety.
Do what feels best to you and most of all do what you enjoy so you will stick with it! Have fun!
Do what feels best to you and most of all do what you enjoy so you will stick with it! Have fun!
ukulelecowboy
Well-known member
Typically the ukulele is strum and/or picked with the fingers. It cases where a pick of some sort was used, the felt pick was used traditionally. Although, like a guitar, it is a fretted instrument, it really requires a different approach in order to remain faithful to its' characteristics and idiosyncrasies. I think after you start playing, you will see the kinds of control that you have with your fingers and hand.
Enjoy!
Enjoy!
Huna
Well-known member
growing out the fingernails on the strumming hand a bit helps if you need to.
Coconut Willie
Well-known member
As you will find out, when playing the ukulele...there is no hard and fast rule, it's what feels good to you and what works!!! Try both ways, although, when using a pick you are limiting yourself.
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Try Growing some nails on you dominant hand for picking and strumming, and keep you fretting hand nails short.....see how it works for you...experiment and find what you like best...Good Luck and Happy Strummings..
perep
Well-known member
No right way but I started using my thumb & index finger , both or individually and started picking with both (nails short) as I like to feel the very edge of the strings with my fingertips. It will come with practice, you will get to know where the strings are with your fingertips. Like everyone says, whatever feels good & works for you
I think most people will suggest that you don't use a pick and for the most part I agree. The only time I would suggest using a pick is if you're using metal strings. You just don't get the same pluck-iness that you get with nails and nylon strings.
dip.mojica
Well-known member
you should definitely learn how to strum with your finger. the strumming technique is slightly different from the guitar, and takes a little bit to get used to. with practice, it shouldn't take too long to get used to. congrats on your first ukulele and happy playing!
Nico of Ukulele Journey
Nico of Ukulele Journey
temporus
Member
I started off playing guitar, and on guitar I usually prefer to use a pick. In fact I keep one in my wallet just in case. At this point, it's almost a psychological thing that I *need* to have that pick to play guitar or I don't feel comfortable.
But for the uke, I like to use the fingers. I don't know if it's the nylon strings or what, but something about the feel of the strings on my fingertops is just pleasant--like I'm in tune with the instrument more. I think it's worth learning to use your fingers. Good luck!
But for the uke, I like to use the fingers. I don't know if it's the nylon strings or what, but something about the feel of the strings on my fingertops is just pleasant--like I'm in tune with the instrument more. I think it's worth learning to use your fingers. Good luck!
