'chunking'

sheeshkebab

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So I've been chunking for a week. Or that should be attempting to chunk. I've spent most of my time switching between the various early chords in the Ukes for Dummies book. So many songs, so few chords.

But chunking? I can't do it consistently. Roughly 5% of the time.

Do any of you have any tips? Did you struggle with this vital uke technique? Even the video at http://ukuleleunderground.com/2008/08/uke-minutes-23-chunking/ shed no extra light on it.

Any tips, or help would be appreciated.
 
Could try using the fatty flesh just under your thumb while putting your fingers into a fist to hit the strings instead of using your palm.
 
When I first started playing (almost a year and a half ago), I couldn't get the hang of chunking. I was getting frustrated so I decided to focus my efforts elsewhere--after all, I am doing this for fun! I pretty much forgot about chunking until a couple of weeks ago, when I tried it again. Much to my surprise, I suddenly "got" it.

If you are getting a good chunk 5% of the time, you are on your way. Try to figure out what you're doing when it works, and remember that what works for you might be different than what works for somebody else.

Here's a video where Aldrine use his thumb instead of his palm to mute the strings. http://ukuleleunderground.com/lessons/chunking/

In this video, the instructor points out that different people use different parts of their hand to muffle the strings. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hOBXx_u3ukE
 
Everything new requires Patience.

Just keep practicing different techniques and you'll eventually be able to chunk. You have to learn to walk before you can run!...
 
I hate chunking. Would love to be able to do it though.
 
I didn't watch any videos on chunking, so if any one suggests the following method, I give you credit! xD

Anyways, first try muting the strings with your fretting hand and just start strumming. If you don't get that "chunk" remember to strum with your fingernails. If you do, then you're halfway there. Now, it's just a matter of finding out when to mute the strings with your strumming hand.

Personally, when chunking, I use my middle, ring, and pinky fingers on the down strum and mute the strings with my thumb. I don't use the fatty part (like the part where you lick the cheese off after eating a bag of Cheetos), but rather the side of the thumb (the sides that touch when you fold your hands together). Sorry, it's kinda hard to explain xD
 
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