Learn
Ukulele Basics
Learn the main parts of a ukulele, choose the right tuning, and hold the instrument comfortably.
Parts of the ukulele
A few names make tuning instructions, chord diagrams, and lessons much easier to follow.
- Headstock
- The top of the instrument, where the tuning pegs sit.
- Tuning pegs
- Turn these to raise or lower the pitch of each string.
- Nut
- The small ridge that guides the strings from the headstock to the neck.
- Neck
- The long section your fretting hand supports.
- Frets
- The metal bars that divide the neck into notes.
- Body
- The hollow section that amplifies the strings.
- Soundhole
- The opening in the body that helps project the sound.
- Bridge
- The part on the body where the strings are anchored.
Choose your tuning
String names are written from string 4 to string 1. The string nearest your face is string 4 when you hold the ukulele to play.
Standard (gCEA)
The most common tuning. Its high G makes the pitch order re-entrant rather than strictly low to high.
Low G (GCEA)
The same C, E, and A strings with a lower G. Standard chord shapes still work.
Baritone (DGBE)
Baritone uses D–G–B–E. The same shape does not keep the same chord name as in standard G–C–E–A, so use baritone-specific chord diagrams and progressions.
D Tuning (aDF#B)
A re-entrant tuning one whole step above standard, used by some players and older arrangements.
If you are unsure, start with standard gCEA. Then use the online tuner to hear and match each open string.
Hold it comfortably
A stable instrument lets both hands stay relaxed enough to move.
- Sit or stand upright and let your shoulders relax.
- Rest the body lightly against your chest and support it with your strumming forearm.
- Point the neck slightly upward instead of letting it droop.
- Place your fretting thumb behind the neck so your fingers can curve onto the strings.
- Use only enough pressure to make each note ring clearly.