When it comes to stringed instruments, the ukulele and guitar are two of the most popular and recognisable. But what similarities do these two instruments share? Here’s a look at some of the ways they’re similar – and a few ways they’re different.
The Ukulele is a great gateway instrument and I have taught LOADS of people the ukulele who have then moved onto the Guitar and even the Bass Guitar. As it's smaller with less strings, it's easier to get the basics under your fingers and in your muscle memory, but, is it just a mini guitar?
The fundamental parts of the ukulele and guitar are the same. They both have strings, sound-holes, a neck, frets, a bridge, tuning pegs etc. In fact, just about the only difference between the two is the size and the number of strings.
The guitar does have a variety of different string types; classical, electric and acoustic guitars all have different types of strings. While the Ukulele usually only use nylon strings, like a classical guitar.
The Ukulele only had four strings, while the guitar has six. And, if you take away the lowest E and A strings on the guitar, move the G string up an octave and put a capo on fret five, you have a ukulele!
You can even play a variety of musical styles on both, including jazz, blues, folk, rock, and classical. Have a look at a some of my ukulele arrangements to see what styles are possible.
The biggest difference between the two instruments is their size. The guitar is usually much larger than the ukulele, which means it is capable of producing a louder sound and a wider range of notes and chords.
But, as the ukulele is traditionally a re-entrant tuned instrument, like the banjo, you can play in a style called campanella much more easily. It's where you keep notes ringing for as long as possible and it sounds kind like a harp, or a bunch of little bells.
Despite their differences, the ukulele and guitar are both beloved instruments, with a long and rich history. Lot's of famous players played both including George Harrison, Taylor Swift and Joni Mitchell. I don't know anyone who took up the guitar after the ukulele who never played it again. They are both extremely fun instruments in their own right!
Whether you’re a beginner or a professional musician, both of these instruments can be a great addition to your musical arsenal. So if you've never played anything before, the ukulele is a great starting place. And, if you already play the guitar but want something a little more transportable you can't go wrong with a ukulele.