Strumming Techniques: Beyond the Island Strum
For most of us, our ukulele journey begins by learning to strum a few chords. We dive into strumming patterns, such as the ever-popular “Island Strum” (D DU UDU), before progressing to “Chucking”; which is a percussive technique that creates a backbeat on beats 2 and 4. But then something happens, we hit a wall, we plateau.
This course will help you break through that wall by introducing you to four strumming techniques that will make your rhythm playing POP! These techniques not only add pizzazz to your right hand, but will change the tonal landscape, as you learn how to:
1) Accent beats to create a more dynamic feel to your playing.
2) Alter rhythms – say goodbye to only strumming quarter and eighth note rhythms.
Upon completing this course, you’ll walk away with the ability to spice up any simple strum pattern; creating a rhythmic sound that is unique to you!
“Better Together” – Jack Johnson
This arrangement is perfect for those of you that strum and sing, but are ready to dive into fingerpicking and chucking.
“Stop This Train” – John Mayer
A heartfelt acoustic piece that intertwines percussive rhythm with a candid melody.
Spice Up Your Rhythm Playing – EP010
In this lesson, you’ll learn 8 ways to vary your rhythm playing. The big takeaway here is that these concepts can be applied to any song, helping you to expand your rhythmic playing vocabulary.
“My Girl” – The Temptations
A classic soul hit from the 60’s; this arrangement covers everything, from the iconic intro riff to the smoothly delivered vocal lines.
“Pineapple Uke Blues” – Jari Tolvanen
Learn a relaxing and melodic Blues song that is perfect for the advanced fingerstyle player.
“Battle Hymn of the Republic” – American Traditional
A classic American patriotic tune that is ideal for practicing quick chord changes up and down the neck.
“Perfect” – Ed Sheeran
An elegant fingerstyle adaption of the global hit song that is “perfect” for the intermediate player.
“Havana” – Camila Cabello
Our arrangement of “Havana” stays true to its Latin roots while splicing in an array of tasteful techniques.
Add a Drum-Like Percussive Rhythm to Strumming
Move beyond chucking with this unique and creative way to add a drum inspired percussive rhythm to your ukulele playing.