Progress is being made bit by bit. I changed the strings for the first time a couple of days ago. That was interesting. The challenge, of course, was retuning the uke. As I was finding it difficult, I upgraded to a tuner that is easier to read (i.e. better screen graphics.) So bit by bit, I got it tuned. Then I put on the instructional DVD I hadn't watched in a while. The result of this was that, by paying more attention to the instructor's fingers, I have started to improve my chord progressions. Needless to say, I still have much to learn, but I am happy that I am finally beginning to master this skill.
@Sara-s before an auto accident partially disabled my left arm 26 years ago, I used to play the guitar. Tuning was done with one pitch pipe and string, then each string tuned to the others. I would think I had it down, listening closely while tuning. Then I would make a couple of chords and cringe, LOL It could be maddening! At least to me!
@BamaT so sorry about the accident. I have no doubt it was harder to tune that way. I'm sure I wouldn't have done it any better. I can hear it when a string is way out of tune, but not when they are just a little off (which can also affect a chord pretty adversely.)
Yesterday, I was working on 3-finger chords, which are harder, of course. The obvious reason is my inexperience. But there is also my long fingers & a soprano uke. I started doing some research on larger sizes. When I can make my way to a music store, I am hoping to try a tenor.
I got over to the music store yesterday. As I suspected, a tenor uke is a better fit for my hands. So I came home with a modestly priced tenor by Gretcsh. It needs a restring, as it is tuned to high G, and I prefer low G. Also, I need to install strap buttons. I'll get that all done in the next day or so. When my skills are more up to it, I would like to buy a higher-end uke made of solid koa or mango wood. In the course of my research, I have come to learn that those are the ones whose sound I like best. But they cost much more than I am prepared to spend right now. I'll post a pic of the new one when I can.
Since playing right-handed means that my left hand is on the frets, I find it easier. To me the fretwork takes more fine-motor coordination.
On a side note (pun intended) I have added another instrument to my repertoire. It's a type of steel drum called a tongue drum. I saw an ad for it & it looked easy & fun. The ad was right; it is. Here's a little video of me playing it; Sara's Tongue Drum
I have added some more goodies; 1) A bamboo uke- also a tenor. It has a brighter, cheery sound. The different ukes have different “moods” so the mango may suit one song whilst the bamboo is better suited to another. 2) Of course I needed a case for it. So I got a hard case covered in black canvas. SO why be boring? I stenciled flamingoes onto it.
