I have not played any instruments since I was a kid. I brought my wife (who loves learning new instruments) a ukuele for our 5 year anniversary (obviously not the only present).

She has barely had a chance, I am hooked!!

I seem to be picking up the left hand fine but strumming is a problem. I catch strings and cant get an even level. Any tips? I am using my index finger and the best tip I have picked up so far is to have my nail pointing down.

Im on youtube most nights. I have got the classic "somewhere over the rainbow" pretty sweet but am now learning Chop Suey (SOAD)!

I take it that the word of the day is PRACTICE!?!?!

Love it! I play guitar at least half an hour a day, and there is no substitute for practice. Keep at it relentlessly and keep pushing the boundaries. My kid has a toy ukulele but it's shit.

I can't play but liked the sound. ,reminds me of the Cook Islands , paradise

Here's something to aim for:

Jake Shimabukuro

It's worth looking him up on YouTube - he's an astonishing player.

I'm not sure if he counts as a brilliant player, but I really love the medley of Over the Rainbow and Beautiful Day by Israel Kamakawiw'ole. Utterly amazing voice. With extra prizes for oddest name, and size difference between musician and instrument. Legend.

Saw the Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain last year. Fantastic evening.

Great performance not only with their playing but the whole show itself. Thoroughly recommend it as a good night out.


http://www.ukuleleorchestra.com/


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pLgJ7pk0X-s