Although many people listen to modern music made with a ukulele, few are aware of the instrument’s origins. If you want to learn more about the ukulele, use this guide to find out about its journey and how it came to be so popular.

Portuguese Origins

While this instrument is linked to Hawaii, it was invented in Portugal. Originally called the machete de braga, this predecessor was derived from lute-like instruments that were once popular in Europe and the Middle East. In the 1800s, Portuguese immigrants arrived in the Hawaiian Islands in search of work in the thriving sugar cane fields.

They brought with them the machete de braga, which was quickly adopted by Native Hawaiians. King David Kalakaua was a fan of the instrument and was so enamored that he made it a staple of royal events, even having it accompany the iconic hula dance.

American Popularity

In 1915, the ukulele was first introduced to the rest of America during the Panama Pacific International Exposition in San Francisco. Ukuleles were relatively inexpensive to produce and distribute, which contributed to their quick rise in popularity.

The instrument is also less intimidating than a guitar since it only has four strings instead of six, making it approachable to beginner musicians who want to give it a try.  Today, modern artists and bands, like Jason Mraz, Twenty One Pilots, and Panic! At the Disco, use the ukulele to create mainstream music.

If you want to learn how to play this popular instrument, get a ukulele from Kanile'a 'Ukulele in Kaneohe, HI. This family-owned music shop has provided handcrafted instruments for over 20 years. They’re dedicated to creating highest-quality products, offering limited lifetime warranties that cover 100% of manufacturer defects. For more information about their selection, visit them online or call (808) 234-2868.