An idea for new players - buy an inexpensive ukulele for the sole purpose of learning how to change strings, adjust action (string height), polish/sand sharp fret ends, clean dull fret necks, change tunings, etc.. It will be your own class on how to do these things and you are not worried about making a mistake. That is what I did and it helped me GREATLY moving forward. I still own that same uke and still play it.
Steven - I agree and have bought and sold many used ukes I made play as well as they could. Fun to restore old/used ukes, learn about different materials/strings, and properly set up new ukes. Rick
I am glad I found out about the issues with banjo ukuleles that I certainly am not prepared to deal with. I do not want to conquer other instruments. I am satisfied to concentrate on the ukulele - only soprano & concert size. I want to improve my ukulele playing. I concentrate on learning/improving strumming techniques, such as the Island Strum. I am starting to learn to chuck. Also, improving my technique on playing cleaner 3 - finger chords G & G7. There is much to learn to keep me occupied on the Ukulele without needing to add another instrument. Also, I don't want to spend money on a different instrument, but save it to buy a future additional ukulele.
I made a video not too long ago where I said buying a new ukulele is like taking a step backwards. With banjo uke, that's especially true. If you are still working to learn to play concert ukulele, why go get a banjo uke? It won't be easier. You are exactly right by keeping your focus on learning to play ukulele not on acquiring new ones!
A wise recommendation. String breaking is not that uncommon on cheap banjo ukuleles. The mount on the body that you attach the strings to is pressed steel and the holes often have rough edges that fray the strings. That needs to be checked first and possibly filed smooth before tightening the strings. Cheaper banjo ukes can sound harsh. Putting a sock in it, literally, can help to tone that down. Place a bundled up white sock or cloth between the strut and top just under the bridge. The dilemma when choosing your first ukulele is choosing the size. The concert size is the safest bet. And a value one at that as you have often said. Once more comfortable with playing and handling it you can venture out into the wide world of brands and sizes. If the concert is not your preference then, you can donate it to pretty much anyone who expresses an interest in your new hobby. 🙂
Why be afraid of a simple banjo bridge setup? It isn't rocket science. You want rocket science? Try setting up and tuning a Floyd Rose tailpiece/bridge on an electric guitar. New players learn to do that. Dealing with a banjo bridge is child's play by comparison
It's simple but a bit strange to people who aren't handy and haven't had to do something like this before. Some ukulele players I know won't change their own strings and most, I think, couldn't install strap buttons.
An idea for new players - buy an inexpensive ukulele for the sole purpose of learning how to change strings, adjust action (string height), polish/sand sharp fret ends, clean dull fret necks, change tunings, etc.. It will be your own class on how to do these things and you are not worried about making a mistake. That is what I did and it helped me GREATLY moving forward. I still own that same uke and still play it.
And install strap buttons! Super idea, Steven!!!
@@richdavis4007 Yes, I forgot to mention strap buttons.
Steven - I agree and have bought and sold many used ukes I made play as well as they could. Fun to restore old/used ukes, learn about different materials/strings, and properly set up new ukes. Rick
😊😊
I am glad I found out about the issues with banjo ukuleles that I certainly am not prepared to deal with.
I do not want to conquer other instruments.
I am satisfied to concentrate on the ukulele - only soprano & concert size.
I want to improve my ukulele playing.
I concentrate on learning/improving
strumming techniques, such as the Island Strum. I am starting to learn to chuck. Also, improving my technique on playing cleaner 3 - finger chords G & G7.
There is much to learn to keep me occupied on the Ukulele without needing to add another instrument.
Also, I don't want to spend money on a different instrument, but save it to buy a future additional ukulele.
I made a video not too long ago where I said buying a new ukulele is like taking a step backwards. With banjo uke, that's especially true. If you are still working to learn to play concert ukulele, why go get a banjo uke? It won't be easier. You are exactly right by keeping your focus on learning to play ukulele not on acquiring new ones!
Great advice! Great video!
Glad it was helpful!
A wise recommendation.
String breaking is not that uncommon on cheap banjo ukuleles. The mount on the body that you attach the strings to is pressed steel and the holes often have rough edges that fray the strings. That needs to be checked first and possibly filed smooth before tightening the strings. Cheaper banjo ukes can sound harsh. Putting a sock in it, literally, can help to tone that down. Place a bundled up white sock or cloth between the strut and top just under the bridge.
The dilemma when choosing your first ukulele is choosing the size. The concert size is the safest bet. And a value one at that as you have often said. Once more comfortable with playing and handling it you can venture out into the wide world of brands and sizes. If the concert is not your preference then, you can donate it to pretty much anyone who expresses an interest in your new hobby. 🙂
Thanks for sharing your experience and information! Rich
Why be afraid of a simple banjo bridge setup? It isn't rocket science. You want rocket science? Try setting up and tuning a Floyd Rose tailpiece/bridge on an electric guitar. New players learn to do that. Dealing with a banjo bridge is child's play by comparison
It's simple but a bit strange to people who aren't handy and haven't had to do something like this before. Some ukulele players I know won't change their own strings and most, I think, couldn't install strap buttons.