Here is a 10-Step Program for really learning the ukulele fingerboard.
Subjects(s): Fingerboard
Here is a 10-Step Program for really learning the ukulele fingerboard.
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1Sequential Fret Order — One fret at a time and same string order — a HORIZONTAL, across the strings approach. One fret at a time along each string, fret by fret. This method is a bit slow and prone to error and takes too long to get the information that you really need — What is this note?
- Start with the Natural Notes: A B C D E F G A…, starting with what ever the open string is.
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2Random Fret Order — One fret at a time and same string order. This is a VERITICAL along a string approach.
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3Key Frets Concept — Primary (Key) Frets, Secondary Frets, and Derived Adjacent Frets from string four to one and one to four. This is the method that is used for this series of lessons.
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4Three Element Drill — Fret, Name, String? This is a great goal. Given two of the three elements, you can name the third. This is when you REALLY, REALLY know the names of the neck of your own instrument.
Try this away from the Ukulele. This is the a great goal to achieve. and you really are starting to know the notes of the fingerboard (neck). -
5Geometric Shapes — Random shape and name the notes.
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6Chord Shapes — Finger any chord you already know - doesn't matter if you know the name of the chord or not. This can be done with or without the ukulele. Hold the chord down or imagine it. Then name the notes. Name them from low to to high, high to low. It actually doesn't matter if you get the right sharp or flat name. Later on you can learn which sharp or flat en-harmonic identity would be correct.<
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7Isolation Drill — Look or in your mind visual a string, frets, string and name the note. Again the en-harmonic is optional.
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8Visualization — Just visualize you playing and something you already know and simple identify everything you are actually playing. It doesn't have to be in tempo.
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9Name Notes in Rhythm — Sing the names of the notes as you playing a single note melody or riff.
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10Rapid Note Jumping. Identify individual notes in extreme random order.
Just what will we get out of it.
Related Lessons, Videos, Lesson Series, Songs, Books & Reference Charts, Resources & Assets, Workshops are below.
Most players struggle with learning the names of the notes of the ukulele fingerboard. There doesn't seem to a pattern and notes repeat. There is an easy way and "it's easier that you think." Most players know the names of the open strings for their favorite tuning.
There is nothing that returns more value when learning a fretted musical instrument like the ukulele than really , and I mean really knowing the names of the notes of the fingerboard. This exercise takes any random fingerboard shape and names the notes using any combination of their natural, sharps and or flats names.
Learning the Fingerboard, C Tuning - 10 step Program.
Finally, learn the names of the notes of the fingerboard. Learning the notes of your instrument allows you the flexibility of not having to remember so many shapes. There are simply way too many chords, scale and notes patterns, and shapes to remember. It all comes down the notes.
return in your investment)—it is this— learning the
f*ckingnotes of your OWN instrument. Sorry for the tough talks—but it is sooooo true!
Learn to read single note melodies in the first/open position is a lot easier than you might think. Book: Ukulele – Reading Music Series – Primer
An organized collection of daily practice and reference material for the contemporary ukulele player for developing the vocabulary and knowledge necessary for single note playing. Book: Daily Practice Material for the Contemporary Ukulele
Checkout the Books & Reference Charts for additional Handy, Dandy Reference Charts.
Ukulele Fingerboard Chart for C Tuning, Low or High G – G C E A
Ukulele Fingerboard Chart for G Tuning, Low or High A – D G B E
A handy reference chart of all 15 major and relative minor key signatures. US Letter 8.5 x 11 sized (ANSI-A) , A4
