The ‘Ukulele, A History
The ‘Ukulele, A History Jim Tranquada and John King University of Hawai’i Press Paperback – 282 Pages Audience – Serious History buffs only Rating – Ukulele pictured – Ohana SK35-GS While the book is 282 pages long, it is not nearly that much for straight reading. It contains 2 Appendices and almost 100 pages of footnotes. But that doesn’t mean it is hard to read. The narrative is factual and flows nicely, it also includes a number of illustrations throughout the text. My recommendation is to read the book through the first time and ignore the footnotes. A second reading while referencing the notes will provide a more in depth understanding of the history and the associated background. The book is arranged in nine chapters that cover the instrument from its development through modern times. The spread of the instrument is documented as well, with particular attention paid to the…
The Ukulele, A Visual History
The Ukulele, A Visual History – Revised & Expanded Jim Beloff Backbeat Books Hardcover or Paperback – 127 Pages Audience – All levels Rating – Ukulele pictured above – Lyon & Healey – 1924 – Washburn Style 702 When I started my ukulele journey many years ago, this was the only ukulele book available in the library around the corner from my office. I devoured it with great interest. Highly readable, this book is packed to the brim with pictures, biographical sketches, side bars and references. Divided into four chapters, the first covers the history of the instrument, from the early days on the Islands through the days of radio and television to the internet. Chapter Two delves into the great musicians and personalities of the instrument, while Chapter Three discusses the many Manufacturers. The last chapter continues the story into the modern day. One and two page vignettes include…
Welcome to The Ukulele Dude’s Website!
On the 19th of September 2009, I stumbled upon a video. I’m not sure how I found it, but there it was, sharing laughter, fun and music through my computer screen. Over the next few days I dug and searched, questioned and analyzed. On the 1st of October, I ordered it. On October 5th, three separate packages arrived on my doorstep, one of them contained my very first ukulele. Over the last seven years I have collected ukuleles, played with various groups, done open mikes, radio, stage and made my own videos. I do enjoy playing, learning and teaching this instrument. This blog is going to be used to share reviews and information on this great instrument. I will review the instruments, books on the ukulele, both the history and the music, events, performances and workshops. It will also serve as a platform for my book, Unlock Your Ukulele, which…