Best
CONCERT
UKULELE
Mahogany
Concert Ukulele GREAT TONE AT AN
AFFORDABLE PRICE
-
Overall: Concert Size Provides Versatility And Portability
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Best Feature: Solid Mahogany Body And Neck
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TedScore™: 8/10
Best
TENOR
UKULELE
Tenor Ukulele HIGH-QUALITY
CRAFTSMANSHIP AND
DURABILITY
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Overall: Made Of Solid Koa Wood For Warm, Rich Tones
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Best Feature: Highly Durable And Resistant To Changes In Temperature And Humidity
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TedScore™: 9/10
Best
SOPRANO UKULELE
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Overall: Solid Top For A Sound That Keeps Giving - The More You Play, The Richer It Gets
-
Best Feature: The Soprano Body Provides Comfort Whilst Delivering A Traditional Ukulele Sound
-
TedScore™: 9/10
The ukulele, often affectionately referred to as the uke, may look like an unusually small guitar, but it has a character all its own.
Whenever a ukulele is mentioned, it brings a smile to faces, invoking images of tropical beaches, friends, and carefree strumming (Oh! Let’s not forget to sing the word ALOHA!).
But have you ever wondered what does ukulele mean?
We know this stringed instrument has been around for quite some time, but do we really know the meaning of its name and its history?
You might have been intrigued by the ukulele’s name, which suggests Hawaiian culture, cultural heritage (Honolulu says Hi!), and musical joy.
You’re on the right track, my friend. Read on to know the answers to those questions!
Origins and History
The uke, a beloved stringed musical instrument, boasts a rich history rooted in Portuguese tradition and blossomed in Hawaiian culture.
Shall we go on a musical time-travel to uncover its intriguing past? Let’s!
Portuguese Roots and Word Origin
In the 19th century, Portuguese immigrants from Madeira Island brought with them a charming little instrument known as the machete.
It was originally known as the machete de braga, or braguinha, named after a region in Portugal.
This precursor to the ukulele captured hearts with its unique tunes and eventually became a staple in Hawaiian music. Fondly played by many, including Manuel Nunes, José do Espírito Santo, and Augusto Dias, the machete laid the foundation for a worldwide music sensation.
Hawaiian Adoption and Music
Upon the arrival of the SS Ravenscrag in Hawaii in 1879, these Portuguese immigrants introduced their stringed joy to the Hawaiian Islands.
The Hawaiians were enchanted by the lively music of the machete and swiftly made it their own, calling it ‘ukulele,’ which translates to ‘jumping flea.’ This adoption highlighted the influence of various musical instruments on Hawaiian music.
It became popular under the endorsement of King Kalakaua, who integrated it into Hawaiian royal performances, cementing its place in Hawaiian heritage.
The Name “Ukulele”
The name “ukulele” is as charming and unique as the instrument itself.
Derived from the Hawaiian language, the word “ukulele” combines “uku,” meaning “flea” or “lice,” and “lele,” meaning “to jump” or “to fly.” This literal translation, “jumping flea,” is believed to describe the quick and nimble movements of a player’s fingers dancing across the strings.
Imagine those lively fingers hopping around like tiny fleas – quite a vivid image, isn’t it?
But there’s more to the name than just a playful description.
The term “ukulele” also carries a deeper cultural significance. Some interpretations suggest it means “the gift that came” or “the gift that arrived,” reflecting the instrument’s introduction to the Hawaiian Islands by Portuguese immigrants.
This dual meaning beautifully encapsulates both the physical act of playing and the cultural gift that the ukulele represents.
So, the next time you strum your uke, remember you’re not just playing a small four-stringed guitar; you’re embracing a piece of history and a symbol of cultural fusion.
Ukulele Varieties and Brands
Every ukulele’s design tells a story among stringed instruments. Let me tell you about the different varieties of this instrument and the best brands available!
Ukulele Varieties
Often considered the standard, this small four-stringed guitar produces the bright, classic ukulele sound.
A tad larger, it boasts a fuller sound and is a comfy fit if your fingers crave more space.
Embrace deeper tones and more frets to explore a broader range of notes.
Let your tunes resonate with its deeper, guitar-like tones. Perfect if you’re after that rich, sonorous vibe.
Plugin, amplify, and let the world hear your ukulele’s voice loud and clear.
Best Brands of Ukulele
KAMAKA
Kamaka is a quality legacy that has been cradling music since 1916. If you’re looking for a small guitar to play with, you might want to check out their Kamaka HF-3 Tenor. It’s one of the best musical instruments in the uke world!
Kamaka HF-3 Tenor Ukulele
PERFECT FOR: intermediate to advanced players
FEATURES: Made of solid koa wood for warm, rich tones
OTHER INFO: Highly durable and resistant to changes in temperature and humidity
Kamaka HF-3 Tenor Ukulele
- Designed with precision tuning
- Produces a rich, warm tone
- Handcrafted by skilled artisans using traditional techniques
- The relatively high price point
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
KALA
Kala is a brand known for its wide range and innovation, making it a great pick regardless of skill level. Their Kala KA-SMHC Mahogany Concert Uke is a testament to this stringed instrument. It’s a reliable and long-lasting instrument worth investing in.
Kala KA-SMHC Mahogany
Concert Ukulele
PERFECT FOR: players needing a ukulele for the road, home or studio
FEATURES: Concert size provides versatility and portability
OTHER INFO: Solid mahogany body and neck
Kala KA-SMHC Mahogany
Concert Ukulele
- Rosewood fingerboard provides rich, complex overtones
- Reliable and long-lasting
- With tortoiseshell binding for a stunning aesthetic
- Equipped with Aquila Nylgut strings
- More expensive than other beginner ukuleles on the market
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
CORDOBA
Cordoba Uke literally lets you immerse yourself in the Hawaiian spirit with instruments known for their playability and sweet sound. Their Cordoba 21S Soprano is one of the term ukulele musical instruments that gives a strong, clear, classic tone while providing comfort when played.
Cordoba 21S Soprano Ukulele
PERFECT FOR: any aspiring or seasoned ukulele player
FEATURES: Solid top for a sound that keeps giving - the more you play, the richer it gets
OTHER INFO: The Soprano body provides comfort whilst delivering a traditional ukulele sound
Cordoba 21S Soprano Ukulele
- Soft-C neck profile and satin finish for a superbly smooth playing experience
- Strong, clear, classic ukulele tone with a versatile nature
- Brings timeless style with Cordoba's expertise in acoustic nylon instruments
- May be more expensive than some other entry-level soprano ukuleles on the market
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Cultural Significance
of the Ukulele
The ukulele is more than just a delightful stringed instrument; it’s a vibrant symbol of Hawaiian culture and history.
When Portuguese immigrants arrived in the Hawaiian Islands in the late 19th century, they brought with them their musical traditions and instruments, including the machete, which eventually evolved into the ukulele.
This small four-stringed guitar quickly captured the hearts of the Hawaiian people, becoming an integral part of Hawaiian music and culture.
The ukulele’s unique sound and playing style resonated deeply with the Hawaiian spirit, and it wasn’t long before it was embraced by the royal family.
King Kalakaua, known as the Merrie Monarch, was particularly fond of the ukulele and played a significant role in popularizing it throughout the islands.
He incorporated the ukulele into royal performances, ensuring its place in Hawaiian heritage.
Today, the ukulele continues to be a beloved instrument, not just in Hawaii but around the world. Its cheerful tones and versatile nature make it a favorite among musicians of all ages and skill levels.
What Does Ukulele Mean:
Jumping Flea and Final Thoughts!
The ukulele is one of the most loved stringed instruments, similar to a small guitar. Originating in Hawaii, the word ukulele actually translates to “jumping flea.” This quirky name reflects the lively movement of a player’s fingers.
Soprano: Most traditional; bright, light sound
Concert: Slightly larger; warmer tones
Tenor: Fuller sound; more bass
Baritone: Closest to a guitar; deeper sound
The ukulele is also loved for its versatility. It can be tuned to accommodate various musical styles, whether you’re into jazz, folk, pop, or rock.
There’s a joyful culture surrounding the ukulele, ensuring anyone’s experience with it is nothing short of delightful. I encourage you to join the community! Aloha!
There’s another thing – this ain’t over yet!
Now that you know the meaning of ukulele, it’s time to check this next article. It’ll give you the best ukuleles designed for beginners. If you are one or know someone who wants to have one, read this!
I read your piece about the ‘Cultural Significance of the Ukulele’, and I think it’s deeper than it seems. It’s not just an instrument; it’s a whole vibe and a way to connect. But also, don’t you think it’s becoming too mainstream and losing that unique cultural touch?
Mainstream doesn’t necessarily mean loss of culture. It’s about how you embrace and adapt it. Plus, wider appreciation can be a good thing.
good point, maybe its becoming popular helps share the culture more.
So what does the ukulele say when it’s sad? I’m feeling a little plucky today.
Love the shoutout to KAMAKA and KALA brands, they truly are top-notch.
I found the section about the Portuguese roots of the ukulele fascinating, Lewis Turner. It’s intriguing to consider how cultural exchange shapes the music we love today. I was wondering, were there any specific events or individuals that played a pivotal role in the Hawaiian adoption of the instrument?
It’s all about migration patterns and the plantation economy of Hawaii. The Portuguese brought it over, and it just clicked with the locals.