I’ve read a few ukulele books since starting this blog a couple of years back so I thought I’d round up some of the best ukulele books and explain a little bit about each one and why I like it. So without further ado, here are my favourites (in no particular order)…
1. Ukulele Chord Melody Solos
Ideal for those that are starting to feel like they have the basics down and want to take their playing to the next level. Costs around £11/$15.
Buy Chord Melody Solos or read my review
2. How To Play Ukulele Strums
How to Play Ukulele Strums is a pretty descriptive title for a book. Everyone struggles with strumming at some point (even Jake Shimabukuro, well he probably did when he was learning). Al Wood’s ebook is entirely focussed on strumming which makes it a very useful book to own.
What I particularly like in How To Play Ukulele Strums is Al’s rather clever way of counting out strumming rhythms which will enable you to learn any strumming pattern no matter how complex (I still use his method now).
Everything is broken down really well and clearly explained. There are supporting video examples and by the time you’re one with this 103 page ebook you’ll be well on your way to being a strumming master. Costs $12 (an absolute steal)
Buy How To Play Ukulele Strums
3. Ukulele For Dummies
Great for those that are looking for an all-in-one ukulele book with a bit of everything in it. Costs around £15/$18.
Buy Ukulele For Dummies or read my review
4. The Daily Ukulele
Perfect for those that really want to increase their song repertoire. Costs around £20/$25.
Buy The Daily Ukulele or read my review
5. Ukulele Aerobics For All Levels
For those that area really looking to ramp up their skills. Costs around £12/$14.
Buy Ukulele Aerobics or read my review
6. Clawhammer Ukulele – Tabs & Technique
This is the perfect book if you’re looking to get to grips with playing clawhammer, oh and it would make a great gift too. Costs around $20.
7. How To Play Blues Ukulele
If you’re wanting to play the blues on your ukulele this is the book. Costs $17.
Buy How To Play Blues Ukulele or read my review
So that’s my list of what I consider to be the best ukulele books out there. I’ve spent a lot of time with all of these books and they all bring something different to the table. If you have a favourite ukulele book let me know in the comments below, I’m always on the lookout for new things to read and learn from!
View Comments (4)
I like the "ukulele fretboard roadmaps" by Fred Sokolow and Jim Beloff. Teaches you chords anywhere on the fretboard, solo playing, understand chord progressions. This is not a good first book, but would be great after the ukulele for dummies book.
I really like "How to play Fingerstyle solos on the Ukulele" by Mark Kailana Nelson. The arrangements are lovely and he explains the context and technical challenges every piece very clearly.
I second the ukulele blues recommendation. Awesome book for blues lovers who try to learn new instrument. Youtube references are definitely a big help during learning process!
Great list! They so useful for a beginner like me. Thanks for sharing.