“You can really learn to play the ukelele in just two hours “, says Gladson Peter. I would say, “It’s a small wonder in a tiny package “. I really believe the ukelele to be an instrument for everyone regardless of age or whether or not anyone is musically inclined. The uke is fun, melodious, whimsical and it’s practically impossible to play the ukelele without a smile on your face.
Life is tough and serious these days. We are suffering from depression, anxiety, boredom and whatnot. The ukelele can be your best friend as it was mine right from the first wave of Covid-19. Watching the “Balcony Concert” by the Nandy Sisters from Pune with this tiny instrument strumming flawlessly, which had drawn me to try my hands on this tiny little stress-buster. My reaction was strong and immediate: I wanted one. Maybe it was the size or maybe I figured I’d be better playing four strings. I have never held a stringed instrument before; I can only sing. But what I found is none of that makes a whit of difference. The ukelele is completely unintimidating.
I would like to suggest to the aspirants who are still thinking or are in a confused state about which instrument to purchase or play, “the uke is the perfect match”. For those who are thinking of doing something huge in a short time with less effort then grab the beginner-friendly ukelele. If you’re looking to learn, there are YouTube tutorials by self-taught enthusiasts like the one from whom I got inspired is Sayali Tank, 27, a vlogger from Nashik whose lessons are so easy to grasp. My second most favourite one is the YouTube channel “BollyUke” by Arnab Chakraborty.
When I first started it wasn’t that difficult. And to my utmost surprise, I completed learning and shooting my first video in just two days. I quickly learnt. I have no idea if I am any good, but who cares, all I need is fun. The first song which I played was “Ek ladki ko dekha toh aisa laga”. My niece really gets excited when she sees me unzip the bag. This pain killer wins my heart every time I play it. With 3 simple chords, you can play hundreds of songs. My passion for this instrument grew over the years and now I can’t stop loving it.