Strumming and chords...

So I have a tenor uke, it was my grand fathers, which I've been playing around with for a while now, i've got strumming patterns down, its tuned, and i can get the fingering for the chords, but, when I go to strum while my fingers are on a chord, it sounds just like it's been muted.

I know this is a complete newbie question, but I'm just looking for some help. I don't think there's anything wrong about the uke, so am I just not strumming hard enough? I feel like I am already since it makes my fingers hurt already.

Once again, complete NOOB question I know. thank you for all of your help!

Test each string individually while holding the chord down, see if each one sounds clean. if not make sure you try to get each one clean. Keep up the practicing and you will get it in a kind of a snap moment.

Cheers,

DM

If you try what diego says and each string is ringing true, try strumming in different spots up and down the strings. Each Uke has it's own sweet spot where strumming produces optimal sound. On mine it's where the bridge meets the body.

You are getting some good advice...insure you are using proper technique before moving on to songs i.e. correct finger pressure, curving the fingers to hit the desired string so you don't mute the string next to it, etc. etc.

Check this out: http://www.videojug.com/film/ukulele-lessons-left-hand-technique-fingering