Flight TUS35 Travel Soprano
A compact soprano option for someone looking for an accessible first ukulele.
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How to Start Learning Ukulele: Instruments, Accessories & Books for Beginners
Thinking about learning the ukulele? Getting started doesn't require a huge amount of equipment. This guide will help you choose your first ukulele, understand the accessories you actually need, and find a learning book that matches the way you want to learn.
🌴 What do you need to start learning ukulele?
For most beginners, getting started comes down to three things:
1. A Ukulele
Choose the right size and instrument for the player.
2. Learning Material
A structured method book can make the first few months much easier.
3. A Few Accessories
Start with the essentials and add other accessories as you progress.
First: which ukulele size should you buy?
Ukuleles come in several sizes, but beginners will most commonly encounter soprano, concert and tenor.
| Size | Good For | What to Expect |
|---|---|---|
| Soprano | Beginners, younger players and portability | Compact, lightweight and offers the familiar traditional ukulele format. |
| Concert | Beginners wanting a little more room | A larger body and slightly more fretboard space than a soprano. |
| Tenor | Adults and progressing players | More physical room and a larger instrument overall. |
💡 Beginner tip
There isn't one universally "best" ukulele size. A soprano is a natural starting point if you want something compact and traditional, while a concert can be a comfortable alternative if you'd prefer a little more room for your fingers.
Beginner Ukuleles to Consider
Here are a few options from the MusicHorizon range covering soprano and concert sizes and different starting price points.
Flight NUC310 Concert Ukulele
A concert-size option for players who would like a little more room on the instrument.
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Flight NUS500 Soprano Ukulele
A soprano option for learners looking beyond the basic travel ukulele range.
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Flight NUC500 Concert Ukulele
A concert-size choice for beginners and developing players who prefer a larger format.
View UkuleleNext: Choose a Ukulele Learning Book
Online videos are useful, but a structured method book can give your practice a clear progression instead of jumping randomly between chords and songs.
Hal Leonard Ukulele Method Book 1
A structured starting point for someone learning ukulele from the beginning.
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Hal Leonard Deluxe Beginner Edition
An alternative for beginners looking for a more substantial learning resource.
View Book
Alfred's Basic Ukulele Method 1
Another beginner method option for developing your ukulele skills progressively.
View Book
Progressive Ukulele Method for Young Beginners
A learning option specifically aimed at younger beginning players.
View BookWhat should a beginner learn first?
Don't worry about learning dozens of chords immediately. Your first goal should be getting comfortable holding the instrument, producing a clean sound and moving between a small number of useful chord shapes.
A simple learning path
Step 1: Learn how to hold and tune your ukulele.
Step 2: Practise a few basic chord shapes.
Step 3: Learn a simple, steady strumming pattern.
Step 4: Practise changing between chords without stopping.
Step 5: Start playing complete songs.
Step 6: Gradually add new chords, rhythms and techniques.
A Chord Reference Can Be Surprisingly Useful
Once you start learning songs, you'll regularly encounter unfamiliar chords. Keeping a chord finder nearby gives you a quick reference without interrupting your practice.
Hal Leonard Ukulele Chord Finder
A handy reference to keep alongside your method book as your chord vocabulary grows.
View Chord FinderWhich Ukulele Accessories Do You Actually Need?
You don't need to buy every accessory on day one. Start simple, then add accessories that solve an actual need as you learn.
Spare Ukulele Strings
A spare set is inexpensive insurance against a broken or worn string. Make sure you choose strings suitable for your ukulele size.
Shop Strings
Ukulele Capo
Not essential on day one, but useful as you start playing songs in different keys.
Shop Capo
Ukulele Strap
A strap can provide extra support and allow you to concentrate more on your fretting and strumming hands.
Shop StrapOnce You Know the Basics, Start Playing Songs
A method book helps you learn. A songbook gives you a reason to keep practising.
Once you can confidently move between a few chords, start adding songs you actually enjoy. This turns chord practice into music and gives you a much clearer sense of progress.
Rather than buying a large collection of songbooks immediately, choose one that contains music you genuinely want to play.
Three Chord Songs
A natural next step when you're becoming comfortable moving between basic chords.
View Songbook
Ukulele Chord Songbook: Top Hits
Build your repertoire with songs while continuing to practise your chord changes.
View Songbook
The Beatles Ukulele Chord Songbook
A themed option for learners who stay motivated by playing familiar music.
View SongbookYour Beginner Ukulele Shopping Checklist
Start with:
✓ A soprano, concert or tenor ukulele that feels comfortable
✓ A beginner method book
Useful additions:
✓ Spare strings suitable for your ukulele size
✓ A strap if you prefer extra support while playing
✓ A chord finder for quick reference
As you progress:
✓ A songbook containing music you actually want to play
✓ A capo when you begin exploring songs in different keys
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ukulele a good first instrument?
Ukulele can be an approachable way to begin making music. Beginners can start working with simple chord progressions while gradually developing rhythm, coordination and musical understanding.
Should a beginner buy a soprano or concert ukulele?
Both can work well. A soprano is compact and offers the traditional ukulele format. A concert gives you a little more physical space. Comfort and personal preference are important, particularly for adult beginners.
Do I need a capo immediately?
No. A capo is useful, but it isn't one of the first things you need to learn. Add one when the songs you're playing make it useful.
Should I buy a method book or a songbook?
If you're completely new, a method book is the better starting point because it provides a structured learning path. Once you've developed some basic chord and strumming skills, add a songbook containing music that motivates you to practise.
Do I need spare strings?
You won't necessarily need them immediately, but having the correct replacement strings available means a broken or worn string doesn't have to interrupt your practice for long.
Not Sure Which Ukulele Setup Is Right for You?
Meet Crochet, your personal MusicHorizon music shopping assistant.
Tell Crochet who the ukulele is for, whether you're a complete beginner, your preferred size or budget, and what you'd like to learn.
Crochet can help you navigate MusicHorizon's range of ukuleles, learning books and accessories and narrow down the options.
Try asking Crochet:
“I'm an adult beginner learning ukulele. Help me choose an instrument, learning book and the accessories I need.”
“I'm an adult beginner learning ukulele. Help me choose an instrument, learning book and the accessories I need.”
💬 Open the MusicHorizon chat in the bottom-right corner and ask Crochet.
Still Need Some Help?
If you're unsure which ukulele, learning book or accessory to choose, contact the MusicHorizon team and we'll be happy to help.
✉ Email:
admin at musichorizon dot com
☎ Phone:
02 9624 7474
💬 Chat:
Use the chat option in the bottom-right corner
Product availability may change. Always check the individual product page for current product specifications, compatibility, pricing and availability before purchasing. If you're unsure whether an accessory is suitable for your particular ukulele, contact MusicHorizon before ordering.