This is still the best tutorial on the left hand form on youtube. I've been looking for a while for detailed instruction and finally found your video. My hand has been feeling strained and tired after playing but I think that this video will help a lot. Thanks for posting.
thank you very much for this lesson. I was looking for answers like these. I still don't manage to hold the ukulele properly when standing. But I hope this will come soon
Bless the crap right out of *you*, sir. I was searching all over the got-dang internet for THUMB positions in-depth. As a cellist originally, this was driving me crazy! I was doing fine until I started getting into barre chords, and then I couldn't figure out how to stop making my E string dull. No one would tell me either!! This is by far, hands down, the best positioning video on the web. Liked, saved, subscribed. Great article. Related- do you have any videos on practice techniques for switching nicely between your three positions? EDIT- Also! Do you have in depth barre finger positioning and practice videos? Your first finger seems so much "higher up" than I would expect (ie not pressing with your pad at all). It's so much nicer to see this in practice!
Thank you for the great tips! I just received my new Tenor uke and I was trying to figure out how to fret without hurting my elbow/shoulder. I now have a better way. Very excited to continue this musical journey. I feel soreness today but I think I need to play in 15 - 20 minute sections and not half hour to an hour, it is far too long when starting out. Question, do you do any type of stretching before you play? and or can suggest? I think this would help greatly!
Glad to hear the lesson was helpful, Eva! I don't do any stretches like you would for a gym routine. Instead, I run warm up exercises, such as these: rockclass101.com/3-exercises-for-warming-up/
People with smaller hands can't really do form 2 until enough flexibility is gained. I wish this was better acknowledged in tuts. What do you suggest us smaller-handed newbies do until we can do form 2? Or just get a strap and don't bother regular holding until flexibility comes?
Hi Jackal, form 2 should be doable. It would be hard to recommend an alternative without seeing a video of you demonstrating it. Perhaps a suggestion could be made to correct the form issue. I offer support to all premium members at Rock Class 101 in regards to any issue. For example, I helped Dennis perfect tapped harmonics in this support post: rockclass101.com/forums/topic/artificial-tapped-harmonics/
+Marcel Widmer Hi Marcel, glad you enjoyed the lesson. There are 3 forms that are discussed in this video. You can find detailed pictures and explanations of these forms here: rockclass101.com/proper-left-hand-ukulele-form/
Thanks for the video! This was really clear and helpful because you discussed the various forms. Form 2 is easier as you mentioned, but is it normal to struggle with form 1? For me, it's really tough to hold the uke, and it even slips as I hold and switch chords with form 1. Form 2 provides an extra support through the base of the index finger. Without a uke strap that holds the uke up, how is it feasible to even hold it in form 1?
Hi Mango, Form 1 is best for barre chords, although it can be used for basic chords too - but as you've noticed, most of the time you'll use Form 2. When using Form 1 for barring, the thumb and index applies an equal amount of pressure which helps to hold the uke in place. This is similar to a clothes pin, which applies equal pressure via both sides. I talked more about this in the article for this lesson: rockclass101.com/module-3/proper-left-hand-form/
@@RockClass101 Thank you. Just to clarify, the starting position for form 2 should be the base of the index finger( where the index finger meets the top of the palm) right? Also, when you are playing chords like F major and A minor, is it ok to pivot the base of your index finger to the point where the palm is somewhat parallel to the floor? I just find it easier to make those chords while doing this motion because those strings involved in those respective chords are higher up(as in closer to your face).
You are correct on the first question - as it pertains to position. I'm not sure what you mean with the second question. Can you post a video playing on our forum? I'll be better able to help if I can see/hear what's happening: rockclass101.com/forums/forum/rock-class-101-ukulele-lessons/
@@RockClass101 I will post a video. What I'm saying is in the default grip 2, your palm is like at this 45 degree angle from the fretboard. Naturally, your middle finger, when it is in this position as you mentioned, can't reach the top strings, in the first and second fret because it's at this angle. Thus, the wrist or palm has to slightly rotate for the middle finger to reach the top string(string closest to your face) in the first-second fret location, which results in the palm being somewhat parallel to the floor in that moment. Otherwise when you are playing c major, g major, etc, your palm is like at this 30 - 45 degree angle from the fretboard when you are playing as the base of your index finger is like anchored to the nut.
Glad you enjoyed the lesson! It's a simple walk down from Triad to Maj 7, to Dom 7. Same progression heard in countless tunes like, sixpence none the richer's "kiss me".
Using form 2, I dampen the bottom string on chords--A minor, G major, F major. Curving my fingers doesn't help, because it's the resting part that dampens it. What do you recommend?
David, can you share a video on the forum: rockclass101.com/forums/forum/rock-class-101-ukulele-lessons/. I'll be better able to help if I can see/hear what's happening.
I'm a newbie. I bought ukulele and it was already tune for right handed players but I'm a left handed. Do I need to restring it or just tune it for lefty? Thank you for your answeer! God bless.
If I hold the uke in the crook of my arm and rest it on the highest part of my thigh when I am sitting, my belly pushes it too far from me and it wants to slip off my leg. Anyone have that problem? My best position is standing but hope I don't have to stand all the time.
i was extremely confused how you didn't drop it doing that walk up the A string when it was open. (form 1). but there you were literally holding the uke with the strumming hand for open string.
Hi Maddison, do you mean you are playing left handed? If so, all of the principles taught in this video and article would apply - but in your case, for the right hand: rockclass101.com/proper-left-hand-ukulele-form/
Hi Paul, could you share a video playing a chord progression or switch using what you are describing. I'd be better able to help if I could see and hear the context of the music. Feel free to post it in our forums: rockclass101.com/forums/forum/rock-class-101-ukulele-lessons/.
You'd want to use form 1 for the traditional chord: 4442. But, if you omit string 4 (which is a repeat of the B note on the A string), this makes the chord much easier to form. And this way, you can use form 2: X442.
Rock Class 101 Thanks for the reply I’ve been practicing the 4442. I have no issues with barre chords or half-barre but this one is quite the pain to do efficiently. It’s my index finger causing more trouble than the 444.
Rock Class 101 What is your opinion on half barre of 444 with (234) ring finger and index on fret 2 string 1? Lot of ukulele folks out there use that technique. It seems like more movement coming from A chord vs placing ring and pinky sliding up. Trying to master Adele’s “Someone Like You” in original key fingerpicking. Truly appreciate the feedback, picking up ukulele has been a major stress reliever.
It doesn't work for my playing style, but it does for other teachers like Matt Dahlberg. There's no right or wrong way to form a chord like that, so if it works for you, go for it :)
Hi Steve, make sure you are using Form 2: rockclass101.com/proper-left-hand-ukulele-form/. The index finger is what holds the neck up. Check out 9:10 for a better explanation of this.
That's a G chord: 0775. So your ring finger is on the third string, 7th fret and your pinky finger is underneath it: second string, 7th fret. Finally, your index is on string one, 5th fret. Make sure to keep your fingers curved and fret the notes using the tip of your fingers. That's really the trick here :) If you're new to fretting chords using proper form, check out our beginner's course: rockclass101.com/definitive-beginners-guide-ukulele/. We go much deeper into proper form there (module 3).
Jenny, not sure I'm following what you mean by "left hand?". This lesson covers proper form for the fretting hand. We have another lesson that covers form for the strumming/picking hand: rockclass101.com/proper-right-hand-ukulele-form/. We also go more in-depth in learning to hold the ukulele in our beginner's course: rockclass101.com/definitive-beginners-guide-ukulele/.
This is still the best tutorial on the left hand form on youtube. I've been looking for a while for detailed instruction and finally found your video. My hand has been feeling strained and tired after playing but I think that this video will help a lot. Thanks for posting.
I don't know why you're not more popular. You're a great teacher.
Thank you!
Loved this lesson, thank you❤
Amazing, this is exactly what im looking for!
thank you very much for this lesson. I was looking for answers like these. I still don't manage to hold the ukulele properly when standing. But I hope this will come soon
Your explanation is very clear and easy to understand.Thanks so much.
You make me smile when you play with the ukulele
This is exactly what I needed.
Great stuff
Super lucid and helpful. Thank you.
Thanks. I have been struggling with my left hand for a while
+unresolvedlinkage Glad the lesson was helpful!
Awesome video ! Thank you !
Just discovered you. Thanks so MUCH
Bless the crap right out of *you*, sir. I was searching all over the got-dang internet for THUMB positions in-depth. As a cellist originally, this was driving me crazy! I was doing fine until I started getting into barre chords, and then I couldn't figure out how to stop making my E string dull. No one would tell me either!! This is by far, hands down, the best positioning video on the web. Liked, saved, subscribed. Great article.
Related- do you have any videos on practice techniques for switching nicely between your three positions?
EDIT- Also! Do you have in depth barre finger positioning and practice videos? Your first finger seems so much "higher up" than I would expect (ie not pressing with your pad at all). It's so much nicer to see this in practice!
Thanks Brittany! The article recommends which form to use for different types of playing situations: rockclass101.com/proper-left-hand-ukulele-form/
This is great! Sooo helpful!
Thank you for the great tips! I just received my new Tenor uke and I was trying to figure out how to fret without hurting my elbow/shoulder. I now have a better way. Very excited to continue this musical journey. I feel soreness today but I think I need to play in 15 - 20 minute sections and not half hour to an hour, it is far too long when starting out. Question, do you do any type of stretching before you play? and or can suggest? I think this would help greatly!
Glad to hear the lesson was helpful, Eva! I don't do any stretches like you would for a gym routine. Instead, I run warm up exercises, such as these: rockclass101.com/3-exercises-for-warming-up/
People with smaller hands can't really do form 2 until enough flexibility is gained. I wish this was better acknowledged in tuts.
What do you suggest us smaller-handed newbies do until we can do form 2? Or just get a strap and don't bother regular holding until flexibility comes?
Hi Jackal, form 2 should be doable. It would be hard to recommend an alternative without seeing a video of you demonstrating it. Perhaps a suggestion could be made to correct the form issue. I offer support to all premium members at Rock Class 101 in regards to any issue. For example, I helped Dennis perfect tapped harmonics in this support post: rockclass101.com/forums/topic/artificial-tapped-harmonics/
Hi. Thanks for your tips! I am missing shape #4 - at what time stamp are you talking about it?
+Marcel Widmer Hi Marcel, glad you enjoyed the lesson. There are 3 forms that are discussed in this video. You can find detailed pictures and explanations of these forms here: rockclass101.com/proper-left-hand-ukulele-form/
+Rock Class 101 Thanks, Andrew! Greetings from Switzerland ...
Thanks for the video! This was really clear and helpful because you discussed the various forms. Form 2 is easier as you mentioned, but is it normal to struggle with form 1? For me, it's really tough to hold the uke, and it even slips as I hold and switch chords with form 1. Form 2 provides an extra support through the base of the index finger. Without a uke strap that holds the uke up, how is it feasible to even hold it in form 1?
Hi Mango, Form 1 is best for barre chords, although it can be used for basic chords too - but as you've noticed, most of the time you'll use Form 2.
When using Form 1 for barring, the thumb and index applies an equal amount of pressure which helps to hold the uke in place. This is similar to a clothes pin, which applies equal pressure via both sides. I talked more about this in the article for this lesson: rockclass101.com/module-3/proper-left-hand-form/
@@RockClass101 Thank you. Just to clarify, the starting position for form 2 should be the base of the index finger( where the index finger meets the top of the palm) right? Also, when you are playing chords like F major and A minor, is it ok to pivot the base of your index finger to the point where the palm is somewhat parallel to the floor? I just find it easier to make those chords while doing this motion because those strings involved in those respective chords are higher up(as in closer to your face).
You are correct on the first question - as it pertains to position. I'm not sure what you mean with the second question. Can you post a video playing on our forum? I'll be better able to help if I can see/hear what's happening: rockclass101.com/forums/forum/rock-class-101-ukulele-lessons/
@@RockClass101 I will post a video. What I'm saying is in the default grip 2, your palm is like at this 45 degree angle from the fretboard. Naturally, your middle finger, when it is in this position as you mentioned, can't reach the top strings, in the first and second fret because it's at this angle. Thus, the wrist or palm has to slightly rotate for the middle finger to reach the top string(string closest to your face) in the first-second fret location, which results in the palm being somewhat parallel to the floor in that moment. Otherwise when you are playing c major, g major, etc, your palm is like at this 30 - 45 degree angle from the fretboard when you are playing as the base of your index finger is like anchored to the nut.
Wonderful lesson! What is the song at 12:21? I’ve heard it before but don’t know the song. Thank you!
Glad you enjoyed the lesson! It's a simple walk down from Triad to Maj 7, to Dom 7. Same progression heard in countless tunes like, sixpence none the richer's "kiss me".
Using form 2, I dampen the bottom string on chords--A minor, G major, F major. Curving my fingers doesn't help, because it's the resting part that dampens it. What do you recommend?
David, can you share a video on the forum: rockclass101.com/forums/forum/rock-class-101-ukulele-lessons/. I'll be better able to help if I can see/hear what's happening.
I'm a newbie. I bought ukulele and it was already tune for right handed players but I'm a left handed. Do I need to restring it or just tune it for lefty? Thank you for your answeer! God bless.
I'd recommend picking up a left hand uke. Reach out to Mike @ ukerepublic.com. He'll be able to help you. Tell him I sent ya :)
If I hold the uke in the crook of my arm and rest it on the highest part of my thigh when I am sitting, my belly pushes it too far from me and it wants to slip off my leg. Anyone have that problem? My best position is standing but hope I don't have to stand all the time.
Have you tried using a strap when sitting?
Thanks I’ll try it 🙂
i was extremely confused how you didn't drop it doing that walk up the A string when it was open. (form 1). but there you were literally holding the uke with the strumming hand for open string.
I have a regular ukulele that’s more for a right handed person. How can I hold mines?
Hi Maddison, do you mean you are playing left handed? If so, all of the principles taught in this video and article would apply - but in your case, for the right hand: rockclass101.com/proper-left-hand-ukulele-form/
How to switch to form 1 or 3 from form 2 quickly for barre chords or Em chord for example?
Hi Paul, could you share a video playing a chord progression or switch using what you are describing. I'd be better able to help if I could see and hear the context of the music. Feel free to post it in our forums: rockclass101.com/forums/forum/rock-class-101-ukulele-lessons/.
How do you hold a bigger ukulele? My arm isn’t long enough
Try using a strap :)
What form do you use for E and the alternative?
You'd want to use form 1 for the traditional chord: 4442. But, if you omit string 4 (which is a repeat of the B note on the A string), this makes the chord much easier to form. And this way, you can use form 2: X442.
Rock Class 101 Thanks for the reply I’ve been practicing the 4442. I have no issues with barre chords or half-barre but this one is quite the pain to do efficiently. It’s my index finger causing more trouble than the 444.
Def try it without the G string - much easier to play :)
Rock Class 101 What is your opinion on half barre of 444 with (234) ring finger and index on fret 2 string 1? Lot of ukulele folks out there use that technique. It seems like more movement coming from A chord vs placing ring and pinky sliding up. Trying to master Adele’s “Someone Like You” in original key fingerpicking. Truly appreciate the feedback, picking up ukulele has been a major stress reliever.
It doesn't work for my playing style, but it does for other teachers like Matt Dahlberg. There's no right or wrong way to form a chord like that, so if it works for you, go for it :)
It's hard to see how you support the neck as you go up and down the neck using the U shape.
Hi Steve, make sure you are using Form 2: rockclass101.com/proper-left-hand-ukulele-form/. The index finger is what holds the neck up. Check out 9:10 for a better explanation of this.
7:12. How in the actual heck do I get my pinky and third finger on the 7th fret?
That's a G chord: 0775. So your ring finger is on the third string, 7th fret and your pinky finger is underneath it: second string, 7th fret. Finally, your index is on string one, 5th fret. Make sure to keep your fingers curved and fret the notes using the tip of your fingers. That's really the trick here :)
If you're new to fretting chords using proper form, check out our beginner's course: rockclass101.com/definitive-beginners-guide-ukulele/. We go much deeper into proper form there (module 3).
Left hand???yot are right handed--and my Ukulele is much smaller -so I can not grab it under my arm....
Jenny, not sure I'm following what you mean by "left hand?". This lesson covers proper form for the fretting hand. We have another lesson that covers form for the strumming/picking hand: rockclass101.com/proper-right-hand-ukulele-form/.
We also go more in-depth in learning to hold the ukulele in our beginner's course: rockclass101.com/definitive-beginners-guide-ukulele/.
Teaching for ten years? Have you been teaching since you were 5???!!!
Thank you for the youthful appearance compliment :)