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5 items for the aspiring ukulele player

By gvescovichiordi

The ukulele is one of the most accessible instruments to learn how to play. Not only does this charming instrument create warm, uplifting music that’s hard to resist, but it’s also easier to get the hang of than many other stringed instruments.

Ukes are a solid choice for budding players of all ages, thanks to soft nylon strings that are gentle on the fingertips and a compact body that makes reaching the notes easier on the wrist. It doesn’t hurt that ukuleles are one of the most affordable musical instruments out there, either. If you’ve decided to try your hand at playing — whether you’re brand new or switching over from guitar — you’re in for a treat. Here are five products to make your learning experience go smoothly.

First and foremost, you’ll need a good starter uke to cut your teeth on. This bundle has everything a newbie needs to start strumming away, beginning with a solid mahogany tenor ukulele that sports a walnut fingerboard and classical guitar headstock. You can get going right away since it comes with strings, a padded gig bag, a strap, and several picks. You won’t need to find a teacher immediately, either, since it comes with two free months of online tutorials.
$153 from Amazon $220 from Walmart

Sure, once you pick up your new uke, you won’t want to put it down, but of course you’ll have to from time to time. This portable folding stand keeps ukuleles and other small stringed instruments safe and secure. At less than half a pound, it collapses down to a compact size that’s easy to pack into a gig bag, while soft silicone cushions contact points and nonskid rubber feet provide stability.
$19 from Amazon

Another must-have for the aspiring player, this black gig bag ensures you transport your instrument safely. It sports a soft structure that won’t scratch car seats, a smooth protective interior, 15mm of padding, and a rugged 600D oxford nylon exterior. Topped off with a carry handle, adjustable shoulder strap, and accessory pocket to make commuting with your uke a breeze.
$36 from Amazon $53 from Walmart

If you’ve gotten to the point where you’re ready to record your music, use this robust mount to shield your studio microphone from vibrations, shock pops, and distortions. It’s reinforced for durability and isolates outside noise to keep audio crisp, plus it’s compact for travel and compatible with tons of mics. You can also use it for singing, gaming, podcasting, and more.
$0 from Amazon

It’s easy to forget that you’ll need a portable surface for all the bits and bobs that come with learning an instrument. Your tuner, metronome, picks, lesson books, phone, a glass of water — these are all things you’ll need to have within arms reach. Keep those essentials close with an extra-large folding table. Spacious and rated for 40 pounds, this tray arrives assembled, collapses for storage, and is adjustable to six heights and four angles.
$52 from Amazon

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Fun, friendly, affordable, and accessible, the ukulele is a joy to learn and a pleasure to play. You can take one anywhere, play an impressive variety of musical genres, and entertain your friends and family while fueling your creative side. Whether you’re interested in learning as a foundation for another stringed instrument, are looking to be a casual player, or want to take over the world with your uke shredding skills, having these helpful items will get you well on your way.

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