With its bouncy sound and sweet melodies, the ukulele is a popular instrument for all ages. While the majority of ukulele technique is standard, there are slight variations in how a musician can choose to strum. The teachers at Aloha Music School in Honolulu, HI, want students to have options in terms of playing with their fingers or a pick during ukulele lessons, so they’ve shared this guide to help you decide which strumming technique suits you. 

Finger Strumming

Pros

Finger strumming is the traditional method of playing the ukulele, and more musicians use this technique. Strumming and plucking with your fingers produces a higher sound and gives you more flexibility to try out different playing styles, including triplets and rolls.

Cons

While finger strumming produces the traditional ukulele sound, it doesn’t offer much tonal flexibility. If you want to change up your tone to create a more mellow sound, a pick might be a better option. Some musicians who want to strum with speed may use picks over plucking.

Technique Tips

To properly strum with your fingers during ukulele lessons, relax your hand and keep it in a loose fist. Position your hand so your fingernails are facing the strings. Strum down, moving your nails against the strings. Then strum up, now using your fingertips. This is the basic strumming motion to begin playing songs. Practice this strum while using your wrist to move your hand. 

Pick Strumming

Pros

Many students, especially those with delicate fingernails or arthritis, find a pick more comfortable to strum with than their fingers. Younger musicians may start with a pick during ukulele lessons and switch to finger strumming when their hand muscles develop more. Picks also create a lower tone, so a musician may use a pick on a tenor ukulele for that effect.

Cons 

Strumming with a pick does not create the classic ukulele sound. The sound resonates more like a guitar, so most ukulele players opt for finger strumming instead. Over time, using a pick may also damage the surface of the ukulele and the strings.

Technique Tips

You first need to choose the right type of pick. Guitar picks are too harsh for ukuleles. Choose a felt pick or one made of rubber or leather. When playing, grip the pick firmly, but keep your wrist relaxed. Strum each string or up and down across all the strings.

The best way to learn proper strumming methods is through ukulele lessons with professional teachers. Teaching seven instruments, Aloha Music School is your source for high-quality instruments, classes, and repairs. The school has been spreading the joy of music for 13 years, offering customized lessons to every student. To learn more about signing up for lessons, visit their website or call (808) 728-6713 today.