In learning to play the ukulele, students are required to learn how to read music and pick a simple melody. Students learn to accompany themselves while singing as they strum chords. Performance skills are taught as students learn to play the ukulele both individually and as part of a group.
Children See the Ukulele as a Fun and Unique Instrument.
They are excited to learn how to play a "small guitar." In fact, in learning to play the ukulele, students are able to have the chance to explore the properties of a stringed instrument, different to the more common experiences of playing percussive (xylophones or hand drums) or wind instruments (recorder or band instruments) that they are normally exposed to in school.
Materials Needed
A class set of ukuleles is needed. These can be ordered from a music store such as Long & McQuade. There are classroom quality ukuleles that cost around forty dollars each; however, special deals can be had if you are buying in large quantity. Ukuleles come in a variety of colours, but to avoid arguments between students, it is better to have one colour choice! Each ukulele should come with a vinyl or cloth case for storage. Extra strings and small tools for repair should also be purchased. No matter how careful students are, strings will break and tuners will loosen. These can be easily fixed by the teacher without having to make a trip to the music store.
Music books teaching how to play the ukulele are also helpful. Since the tuning of the ukulele varies, make sure the books used are consistent. It is important to choose a book that is geared to the interest and level of elementary school children. Ukulele for Kids- The Hal Leonard Ukulele Method ,an engaging mix of older popular tunes and comes with an instrumental accompanying track can be found in music stores, catalogues or online. Teachers may find it is easier to create their own book that is specific to their class, picking and choosing from other published materials.
Setting Up the Classroom
Ukuleles need to be stored in an area that is accessible to students so they can get themselves a ukulele without the teacher having to pass them all out. At the same time, it is helpful to secure the ukuleles when they aren't in use to avoid breakage. A music cupboard with a lock would be ideal.
Sitting on the floor in a circle or in rows is the best way for elementary aged students to play the ukulele. They can rest the ukulele on their knees or on the floor when not in use. Music books can be open on the floor or students can look up at the teacher or board to read the music.
Teachers should have their own ukulele to demonstrate and play with the students. Sitting on a chair or standing would make the teacher visible to the students. Teachers should also be prepared to walk among the students to help individuals.
Structuring the Lesson
Students should be given a set amount of time at the beginning of class to get their ukuleles, music and sit in a designated place on the floor.
Ukuleles will have to be tuned between classes. Although a little time consuming, the best way at first is having students who have their supplies, come up to the keyboard one at a time for the teacher to tune their ukulele. Later in the year, students might be able to tune their own to the key. It doesn't work to tune them as a group since the noise level is too great to hear each individual string.
Fifteen to twenty minutes at a time is ample for playing the ukulele in class. At first, especially, students will have very sore fingers as they are not used to pressing on the strings. Playing times can be interspersed with singing, listening activities or theory games and lessons. Having students play individually or in small groups also gives them a break from playing. The lesson should begin with a review of notes or concepts taught in the last class. Having chord or fingering charts in sight will aid students in helping themselves if chords or notes are forgotten.
Benefits of learning the ukulele
Learning to play the ukulele benefits children in many ways. Besides teaching important elements of music, it gives children a sense of accomplishment in mastering a new instrument. With every instrument a child learns, it makes it that much easier to learn a new one. Playing the ukulele as a group helps children learn the importance of working together and listening to each other as they make music.
