The Live Ukulele Podcast
The Live Ukulele Podcast is hosted by professional ukulele teacher and performer Brad Bordessa. Each episode features deep dives, interviews, and practical lessons for players of all levels. Brad shares stories from the Hawaii music scene and conversations with notable figures in the ukulele community. He emphasizes an intuitive approach to the instrument, offering tips on technique, mindset, and the philosophy of making music. New episodes are released on the first and third Saturday of each month.
Episodes
Hurricane Update + Donation Link
HURRICANE RELIEF FUND: https://www.gofundme.com/f/hurricane-relief-fund-2026Kōkua Kaʻū livestream: https://www.youtube.com/live/6eeqfSbPuR0?si=EaQ5e8NwKg09gVP0Support the showJoin my newsletter! It's free and I won't spam you. Get updates on new lessons and access to exclusive resources: https://liveukulele.com/signup/Support the podcast:Become a supporting member: https://liveukulele.co
Focusing on the Right Things Makes You Learn Faster
We spend so much time focusing on the minutia of ukulele that sometimes we forget the simple aspects that really make music sing. In this episode I talk about getting the important facets dialed in really well before going off in the weeds.- Hawaiian Songs For ʻUkulele: https://liveukulele.com/store/hawaiian-songs/Support the showJoin my newsletter! It's free and I won't spam you. Get up
Practice, Woodshed, Grind: Tips for Maximizing Your Efforts & Time
Practicing ʻukulele is the most critical part of playing to get right. All of your work here compounds into your skills. Just practicing any ol' way can work, but you're often leaving progress on the table.Here are some actionable tips to help you improve your productivity in the woodshed and get more musical skill along with your ʻukulele chops.Support the showJoin my newsletter! It&apo
Funkulele and the Soul of Uke with Vince Esquire
In this episode I talk to Maui's own, Vince Esquire! He's one of the most original-sounding ukulele players you'll run across and he lends his shredding skills to an all-ukulele band, Kanekoa. We chat about learning on tour with big name artists, the hustle of music, and playing soulful ukulele.Funkulele album: https://open.spotify.com/album/1biKk7u5cw3p5AfhdSWv1JKanekoa: https://ww
How to Be the Most Annoying Ukulele Player Possible!
These things make me want to pull my hair out! Let's explore them together and learn what *not* to do to become better, more insightful ukulele players. Whether letting your ego get out of control, playing over the top of everything, over-shyness, staying glued to your sheet music, or asking too many questions, these things are some of the top ways to become the world's most annoying uku
Jessica Maeve: Normalizing the Ukulele
In this episode I chat with Jessica Maeve, a singer, songwriter, and ukulele player hard at work forging a path in music. Our conversation takes us from singing tips to gigging with the ukulele as a main instrument where it's not expected.Jessica's website: https://www.jessicamaeve.com/Jessica's Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/06LzkhEMItktSTIvLkzYxISupport the showJoin my n
DIY Mods to Get More Out of Your Ukulele
This episode is inspired by my old car that just keeps going. With some DIY adjustments, you can get the very best out of even a crappy ukulele. I discuss changing strings, adjusting the saddle height, and adjusting the nut height, along with a couple other little tips.Tie bridge/slot headstock restringing video: https://youtu.be/mUbvUMxhSEA?si=Veid7MXceNJFgHpjThru-bridge/normal peg headstock rest
Marc Gallagher Got the UU Facebook Page Deleted
In this episode I chat with Marc Gallagher in the UK about writing songs on the ukulele, teaching kids, and how being honest and open is necessary and important, even if it sometimes gets you in trouble. He's a real deal working musician who's transparent perspective is refreshing. I very much enjoyed this interview and hope you do too.Marc's website: https://www.marcgallaghermusic.
The Details That Make Uke Songs Sound Larger Than Life
Welcome to 2026! In this episode I share some insight on how playing simple things one way or another drastically changes the sound of the music. We'll listen to some practical examples so you can start hearing the possibilities in your own playing.TOOL in Honolulu: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YmrRkcuhPJk"Black Hole Sun" baritone playthru: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0dqEiHg
Building Character With Your Ukulele
In this season finale episode I share some updates about my work and a realization about character in ukulele styles.Become a member: https://liveukulele.com/register/member/Step By Step: Single String Picking (GCEA & DGBE versions): https://liveukulele.com/store/step-by-step-picking/Support the showJoin my newsletter! It's free and I won't spam you. Get updates on new lessons and ac
Maia Mayeshiro: Dance Scene Ukulele!
Maia is an instrumental ukulele virtuoso from Oʻahu who accompanies her playing with a wonder singing voice! She DJs dance parties and incorporates the uke into EDM genres.In this episode we chat about artistry and forging a fresh path.This interview is from earlier in the year. Check out @maiashizue for the latest on Maia's journey!Support the showJoin my newsletter! It's free and I won
Dizzi Diamond on Originality and the Craft of Uke
In this episode I sit down with Dizzi Diamond to talk about music, freestyling, beauty, and her 8-string baritone ukulele.Dizzi's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DizziDiamond1212Brad @ Slack Key Show: https://www.showclix.com/event/brad-kevin-shem-sept10-2025"Pandanus" baritone TAB: https://liveukulele.gumroad.com/l/mbuiwvSupport the showJoin my newsletter! It's free and I wo
Uke Day Judgement - With Autotune!
Join me for some thoughts on ukulele week and how the uke isn't Portuguese, what it's like to have nervous students, and why "perfect" kinda sucks.Step By Step picking ebook: https://liveukulele.com/store/step-by-step-picking/Dagan & Da Kine Sound: https://www.instagram.com/da_kine_sound/Kingside: https://www.youtube.com/@Kingside808Private lessons with Brad: https://liveuk
The Dance of the Ukulele
A quick reflection on dancing around the other musicians you play with. Push, pull, be dynamic!Support the showJoin my newsletter! It's free and I won't spam you. Get updates on new lessons and access to exclusive resources: https://liveukulele.com/signup/Support the podcast:Become a supporting member: https://liveukulele.com/register/supporting-member/?coupon=SUPPORT5Buy video lessons o
The Renaissance Man: Uncle George Kahumoku, Jr.
Here's the conversation with one of my main mentors that we're all been waiting for! Truly just scratching the surface of the stories this amazing man can tell from his life. If you enjoy Uncle's stories, check out his hilarious books, A Hawaiian Life and A Hawaiian Life Vol. 2.Uncle George's website: https://kahumoku.com/Slack Key Show website: https://slackkeyshow.com/The Uku
"I Really Don't Like That Song, Dude!" - Keʻala Lindsey
In this episode I talk to next-generation slack key/ukulele player, Keʻala Lindsey, about learning by osmosis, Hawaiian immersion, and songs that don't land well with local boys.Keʻala's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ke.alamokihana/Support the showJoin my newsletter! It's free and I won't spam you. Get updates on new lessons and access to exclusive resources: https://liv
TLUP Classic: Isaac Wang & the Live Ukulele Origin Story
This episode throws back to season 2, episode 14 when I talked to my friend, Isaac Wang, about the beginning of our music careers and the website. I also share an update on the George Kahumoku Slack Key & Ukulele Workshop.Support the showJoin my newsletter! It's free and I won't spam you. Get updates on new lessons and access to exclusive resources: https://liveukulele.com/signup/Sup
"Kōkeʻe" - Kani Ka Pila Classics: ʻŌlelo Breakdown
Pronouncing the Hawaiian language correctly is one of the many important ways foreigners should respect the people, place, and culture of Hawaiʻi. In this episode, I walk through the basic pronunciation of Reverend Dennis Kamakahi's classic song, "Kōkeʻe."Follow along with the words here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1XsKAZqHEMVpDwDKFnSXGCxOFxJEwqwIb/viewThis Kani Ka Pila Classic
The #1 Goal for Every Uke Player: Serving the Music
Many people get caught up in the latest ukulele technique or strum they're learning and automatically add it to every song. This is a surefire way to make every song boring and cliche. It's important to step back and observe the overall effect of your musical choices as a critical listener. In this episode I share some thoughts on looking past your ego to serve music in the best way poss
Singing Expression & Lesson with Joey Bradley
Singing is a wonderful way to accompany your ukulele playing. Anyone can use it to create more diverse arrangements and connect better to the expression of their music.In this episode I sit down with my friend, Joey Bradley, for a discussion and lesson on singing. Joey is a great singer and shares some tips that benefit all of us ukulele players who are less comfortable with our voices. I sing oft
Huh? What? My Plan For Not Going Deaf as a Musician
Working musicians are often around loud sounds. Ukulele players not so much, but it can still have an impact on your hearing. In this episode I discuss some areas that I try to be cautious and provide some tips for saving your hearing.Kingside: https://kingside808.com/Andrew Talks to Awesome People hearing panel: https://www.youtube.com/live/KTJKsskbTxQ?si=sypX1ZYHpx8EA2UVSupport the showJoin my n
TLUP Classic: Kelly Hyde
In this rebroadcast of one of my favorite podcast interviews, I speak to songwriter and baritone uke rhythm whiz, Kelly Hyde.Kelly's site: https://www.kellyhydemusic.com/Kelly's music on Bandcamp: https://kellyhyde.bandcamp.com/Plug In ebook: https://liveukulele.com/store/plug-in/Support the showJoin my newsletter! It's free and I won't spam you. Get updates on new lessons and
Stories About Plugging In + New Uke Ebook
This episode celebrates the launch of my new ebook, Plug In! It's all about choosing the right gear and getting the settings right so you get the best sound out of your ukulele pickup. I share some stories from my evolution of understanding live sound and some of the best bloopers.Learn more about Plug In: https://liveukulele.com/store/plug-in/Hualalai: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1213820/epis
Mim's Inside Scoop on Setups and the Ukulele Business
This month's guest runs one of the most well-regarded online ukulele shops in the USA. Mim has been a longtime proponent of providing a setup for every instrument sold. In this episode we peek behind the veil of the ukulele selling business and find out why she brings a fret-rocker to NAMM!https://mimsukes.com/Fretboard Mastery For Uke mini-series: https://liveukulele.com/register/fretboard-m
When to Give Up on Playing Something
We often get over-determined to practice and play something. When is a good time to let go? In this episode I try to answer the question: when should I give up on a chord, song, or technique?Live Ukulele store: https://liveukulele.com/store/Ukulele Story by Herb Ohta, Jr.: https://www.herbohtajr.com/index/merchandise/recordings/ukulele_story.phpSupport the showJoin my newsletter! It's free an
Jamming Under the Influence(r): Jiggy with Viggy
Victoria aka Jiggy with Viggy joins the podcast for a fun exploration of arranging songs for ukulele, what it's like to be a big deal on social media, and how "Vicky" became "Viggy"!Jiggy with Viggy: https://jiggywithviggy.com/ @jiggywithviggyViggy's Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/jiggywithviggy-Jake Shimabukuro "Eleanor Rigby": https://www.youtube.com/wat
Out With the Old, In With the New - Uke Style!
Welcome to the first episode of season 6 of the Live Ukulele Podcast! This week I share some updates and dig into the concept of "killing your babies," letting go of things that are holding you back in your music.- Changelog: https://liveukulele.com/updates/- Baritone learning philosophy: https://liveukulele.com/baritone/learning-philosophy/Support the showJoin my newsletter! It's f
2024: Is it Over Yet? A Live Ukulele Review
Recap of 2024 and the challenges, successes, and plans for the future.- Ways to support: https://liveukulele.com/support/- Easy songs database: https://liveukulele.com/songs/easy-ukulele-songs/- Workshop replays: https://liveukulele.com/store/#replays- Get a Zoom lesson with me: https://liveukulele.com/store/one-on-one-lessons/Support the showJoin my newsletter! It's free and I won't spa
Digesting my New Single: The Story and Arrangement Behind "Eat You"
This episode breaks down the meaning and arrangement of my new single, "Eat You." Hear the isolated multitracks and the story behind the humorous message.SHARE on FB: "Eat You" music video: https://www.facebook.com/61556463131359/videos/374799105684672- NEW Soloing Masterclass: https://liveukulele.com/store/soloing-masterclass/- Become a supporting member: https://liveukulele.c
Kingside: Exploring Ensemble Playing with Brad's Band
In this episode, Brad is joined in the studio by the members of his band, Kingside: https://kingside808.com/. They talk about the process of creating interesting arrangements, playing as a unit, being selfless as a musician, and much more. A great listen for ukulele players who play or would like to play in a group.- Alan Ku: bass @alankuaudio- Brad Bordesa: ukulele @bradbordessa- Nick Rohfeld: dr
September is Improv Month!
Several opportunities this month to learn improvising and soloing:- Zoom workshop: https://liveukulele.com/register/9-28-24-workshop/Keep an eye our for my soloing masterclass at the end of the month!Support the showJoin my newsletter! It's free and I won't spam you. Get updates on new lessons and access to exclusive resources: https://liveukulele.com/signup/Support the podcast:Become a
Eminent Ukulele with Kimo Hussey
A conversation with ukulele grandmaster, Uncle Kimo Hussey. We talk about his breaking into the scene as a fresh Air Force retiree, his approach to teaching, how he arranges, and much more.- Solo arranging workshop: https://liveukulele.com/register/8-24-24-workshop/- Sign up for my newsletter: https://liveukulele.com/signup/- Uncle Kimo's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@KimoHusseyUkuleleSup
U-Basics - Bass for Ukulele Players
How to transition into the role of bass/U-bass player for simple ensemble playing. In this episode I provide some basic tips and thoughts on how to hold down a solid low end, find a responsible pocket, and be an asset to the band.Support the showJoin my newsletter! It's free and I won't spam you. Get updates on new lessons and access to exclusive resources: https://liveukulele.com/signup
Bryan Tolentino: Professional Fairy Duster
A conversation with Hawaiʻi's own Bryan Tolentino on being a hired gun and all the skills and musical sensibilities that are required for the job. Bryan has played and recorded with many top Hawaiian musicians, including: Raiatea Helm, Jake Shimabukuro, Herb Ohta, Jr., Aunty Genoa Keawe, Karen Keawehawai‘i, Ku‘uipo Kumukahi, Hōkū Zuttermeister, Marlene Sai, Melveen Leed, Jerry Santos, Nathan
Too Much of a Good Thing? Notes on Learning
In this episode I muse on how social media has changed learning ukulele and how to get the most out of using TABs!- Kingside: https://www.kingside808.com/- The Music Lesson book by Victor Wooten: https://www.vixmerch.com/collections/vix-education/products/the-music-lesson-paperback-book?variant=31786157899837Support the showJoin my newsletter! It's free and I won't spam you. Get updates
Kevin Brown: Finding the Hawaiian Sound
In this episode I talk to Maui's own Kevin Brown. A slack key guitarist and vocalist, Uncle Kevin has been weaving Hawaiian sounds since the early 70s with his band, The Waiʻehu Sons. Now primarily a solo artist, we chatted about his start in music, gigging and recording in the 70s, and how to sound Hawaiian.- Uke Logic strings: https://theukulelesite.com/accessories/strings/ukelogic-strings.
TLUP: After Hours - Change Strings With Me
Some last minute talk story as I head to Maui for Uncle George's ukulele workshop.Support the showJoin my newsletter! It's free and I won't spam you. Get updates on new lessons and access to exclusive resources: https://liveukulele.com/signup/Support the podcast:Become a supporting member: https://liveukulele.com/register/supporting-member/?coupon=SUPPORT5Buy video lessons or a book
Spice Up Your Covers with New Genres
In this episode I discuss and demonstrate the power of playing the same song in different styles. This trick can help you find inspiration and an interpretation of a stale song that can be more authentic to what you want to hear!- Register for Faster, Smoother Chord Changes ZOOM workshop: https://liveukulele.com/register/5-25-24-workshop/- Become a supporting member: https://liveukulele.com/regist
Learning a Song ALL the Way Through
Can you get by with piece of a song or do you really need the whole thing?- Moveable chord shapes workshop replay: https://liveukulele.com/register/4-27-24-workshop/- 5/25/24 Zoom workshop on making smoother, easier, buzz-free chord changes: https://liveukulele.com/register/5-25-24-workshop/Support the showJoin my newsletter! It's free and I won't spam you. Get updates on new lessons and
I'm a Proud Uke Student at the School of Hard Knocks
Sharing some stories and thoughts on receiving critique and the power of being open.Register for my Basic Moveable Chord Shapes workshop: https://liveukulele.com/register/4-27-24-workshop/- Institute of Hawaiian Music: https://www.maui.hawaii.edu/ihm/program- George Kahumoku, Jr. Slack Key & ʻUkulele Workshop: https://kahumoku.com/workshops/Support the showJoin my newsletter! It's free an
4stringboy: Shredding, lack thereof, and innovating a new thumbpick design
Sammy Turton is a Denmark-based British ukulele player. He teaches out of a studio in Copenhagen and is a top-notch social media era virtuoso who would often rather create soundscapes than shred. In this conversation we covered teaching, Brexit, performing solo ukulele for the first time, and his search for the perfect (felt) thumbpick.Find Sammy on: https://www.4stringboy.com/ and across the soci
The Most Important Part of Jamming Your Uke
In this episode I talk about how to improve your timing, how it's not as hard as people think, and give some examples of what to practice.🔥 Sign up for my Understanding the Fretboard Zoom Workshop: https://liveukulele.com/register/3-23-24-workshop/- Hawaiian Songs For Ukulele course ("Ua Noho Au A Kupa"): https://liveukulele.com/store/hawaiian-songs/- "Zap" by Eric Johnson
Hualalai Keohuloa: Rock Music is Hawaiian Too
Some of the very best artists in Hawaiʻi are unknown outside of 50 miles. So is the case with my friend, Hualalai. In this episode we talk about all music being "Hawaiian" if you have Hawaiian blood, the importance of music/ukulele in day-to-day life, and our role in the TMT protest of 2015.Live Ukulele Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556463131359Register for Zoo
Using Better Arranging to Take Your Ukulele Playing to the Next Level
Some thoughts on how to vary your song approach and arrangement to create dynamics, emotion, and interest. Don't work super hard on learning to pick every syllable, instead use broad strokes within your playing and get more results for your efforts!- New forum area: https://community.liveukulele.com/session/sso?return_path=https://community.liveukulele.com/- Ukulele Chord Shapes print book: h
Craig Chee and Sarah Maisel: Giving Back Four Strings at a Time
Hawaiʻi's premiere ukulele power duo tell all! From integrating into the Hawaiian uke scene to fundraising for Maui to the DIY ukulele artist experience.- Craigh and Sarah's website: https://www.craigandsarah.com/- Four Strings at a Time: https://fourstringsatatime.org/- Music & Meals for Maui Livestream: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GGHFq-CE2JI- Kākoʻo Maui Fund: https://www.hawa
Iteration: Better MPG for Your Ukulele!
How to adapt material for any stage of your learning and use it for more purposes.- Ukulele Chord Shapes print version: https://liveukulele.com/store/ukulele-chord-shapes/print/- The Ukulele Way: https://www.uketropolis.com/theukuleleway- "Kawika" by The Sunday Manoa: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=obd87eTV1CA- The Groove Workshop by Victor Wooten (now available as a digital stream): ht
Practicing Perfection: Brittni Paiva on Ukulele, Progress, and the Craft
Amongst the greatest virtuoso ukulele players from Hawaiʻi is Hilo's own, Brittni Paiva. We talk about crazy practice hours, the new-age uke scene, music production, hearing your own songs on the stereo, and new original music.Episode resources:- Brittni's website: https://brittnipaiva.com/- Brittni's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iambrittnipaiva/- Brittni's Facebook: ht
Single String Songbook Announcement!
Check out the new songbook here: https://liveukulele.com/store/single-string-songbook/Support the showJoin my newsletter! It's free and I won't spam you. Get updates on new lessons and access to exclusive resources: https://liveukulele.com/signup/Support the podcast:Become a supporting member: https://liveukulele.com/register/supporting-member/?coupon=SUPPORT5Buy video lessons or a book:
2023 Season Finale - Updates, an Anthem, and Mahalos
A look ahead to upcoming projects, general talk story debrief, a song, and closing thoughts.- ʻUkulele Chord Shapes print edition: https://liveukulele.com/store/ukulele-chord-shapes/print/- One-on-one uke lessons with Brad: https://liveukulele.com/store/one-on-one-lessons/- A Legacy of Hawaiian Song & String by Raiatea Helm: https://www.kcpstrings.com/a-legacy-of-hawaiian-song-string- Maui Ola
Keoki Kahumoku: Hawaiian From the Heart
A conversation with Grammy-winning compilation contributor, Keoki Kahumoku, about the school of hard knocks, teaching, and bringing joy to folks with Hawaiian music.Keoki is the founder of the Center For Hawaiian Music Studies and perpetuated the teaching of Hawaiian music for many years at the Kahumoku ʻOhana Music & Lifestyle Workshop. He's a farmer, pig hunter, teacher, and musician wi
Tone 2: How to Improve Your Tone (w/Examples)
Tone is one of the most overlooked aspects of playing ukulele. Good tone makes everything you play sound amazing. Bad tone, well... In this episode I share about how to improve your ukulele sound with some actionable tips. Finger placement, angles, dangles, and more! !!! This episode is brought to you by my Groove Ukulele ebook - a complete guide to strumming in time and creating your own strummi
Tone: The Magic of Your Fingers
In this episode I explore the importance and characteristics of playing with good tone, how to get good tone, who has good tone, how it's different from timbre, and other thoughts.Resources:- Groove Ukulele: https://liveukulele.com/store/groove-ukulele/- Kingside (my rock band): https://kingside808.com/- Maui Ola benefit concert replay on Kahilu.tv: https://www.kahilu.tv/featured-category/vid
Groove Ukulele: One Strumming Pattern to Rule Them All!
This week is the launch of my new ebook, Groove Ukulele. It's all about strumming. Get 20% the new ebook until August 26th at midnight HST! https://liveukulele.com/store/groove-ukulele/In this episode I talk about the foundational concepts that most people miss when learning to strum.Resources:- Strumming Foundations crash course: https://liveukulele.com/store/groove-ukulele/workshop-1/- Groo
The Good & Bad of Playing the Ukulele as Your First Instrument
A student requested I explore coming to the uke from another instrument vs. starting your musical journey on the ukulele. Here are some of my thoughts.Resources:- Uncle George's workshop: https://kahumoku.com/workshops/- JHUI: https://www.uketropolis.com/jhuiSupport the showJoin my newsletter! It's free and I won't spam you. Get updates on new lessons and access to exclusive resourc
Avoiding Discouragement and Managing Expectations
In this episode I share some ideas for breaking a cycle of discouragement by re-framing your expectations for your ukulele journey. Inspired by an email from a reader.If you or someone you know struggles with mental illness, please reach out to services that can assist you in getting the help you need: https://www.nami.org/Support-Education.Sign up for my newsletter: https://liveukulele.com/signup
The Power of Persistence: Kris Fuchigami's Humbling Journey to Virtuosity
Kris Fuchigami is on the podcast! A fellow ukulele player from the Big Island, Kris rocks it harder and better than most. In this interview he shares stories about getting his pride rubbed in the mud, encouraging the next generation, and navigating a music industry without CDs.Resources:- Ukulele Scales PDF bundle download (free): https://liveukulele.com/scales/#pdfs- Kris's website: https://
Appreciating Hawaiian Music With Peter DeAquino
In this episode I recap the George Kahumoku, Jr. Slack Key & Ukulele Workshop and share an interview with a longtime friend, Peter DeAquino. We talk about some ukulele gear, full time gigging, learning from the masters of Hawaiian music, and what the fair market value of live music is.Resources:- Peter on Facebook (live stream every Thursday): https://www.facebook.com/PeterDMaui/- GKSK Worksho
Selecting the Right Ukulele Songs to Play & Perform
The songs you choose to play can have a large impact on the quality of your learning and performing experience. Here are some tips to help you choose the right songs for the moment.Support the showJoin my newsletter! It's free and I won't spam you. Get updates on new lessons and access to exclusive resources: https://liveukulele.com/signup/Support the podcast:Become a supporting member:
Some Hard-Earned Tricks for Ukulele Teaching (and Learning) Success
In this episode I discuss some of the things I've learned over the years that help an ukulele class keep a steady and productive pace while suiting every student's needs.James Hill interviews me for the Uketropolis Podcast: https://share.transistor.fm/s/ab41d676- George Kahumoku, Jr.'s Slack Key & ʻUkulele Workshop: https://kahumoku.com/workshops/Support the showJoin my newslett
Neal Chin's Killer New Chord Trick and Improv Tips
Another great talk story with Seattle-based ʻukulele jazz phenom Neal Chin! He shared a cool chord movement he's learned playing more Brazilian music and how he encourages people to think about improvising on their ukes.- Neal's website: http://www.nealchin.com/- Marco De Carvalho: https://marcodecarvalho.com/Support the showJoin my newsletter! It's free and I won't spam you. G
Strumming's Biggest Trick
A huge majority of strums you hear are more simple than you think. There's really only one strum motion and emphasis is built from that. In this episode I share how it works.Support the showJoin my newsletter! It's free and I won't spam you. Get updates on new lessons and access to exclusive resources: https://liveukulele.com/signup/Support the podcast:Become a supporting member: ht
The Most Important Part of Music
Everyone talks about playing ukulele with good timing, but why does it actually matter? In this episode I discuss some thoughts on what makes the groove so important.Metronome challenge video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OMk-8PorRKMFranz LM-FB-5 metronome: https://reverb.com/item/1227011-vintage-franz-electric-metronome-model-lm-fb-5-in-walnut-caseBOSS DB-30 metronome (affiliate link): https:/
How to Support Your Ukulele: Technique & Straps
Some tips for holding your ukulele so that it doesn't fall down as you play and an overview of straps.Episode resources:- James's video on holding the ukulele: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6VcwGMcq3jY*All Sweetwater items are affiliate links- Standard style strap (this Ernie Ball is what I use): https://sweetwater.sjv.io/rnAZPR- Strap buttons: https://sweetwater.sjv.io/rnAD2d- Classic
Off the Beaten Path with Brian Liu!
An interview with ukulele instructor Brian Liu from Next Level Ukulele. We sat down and talked about some of his scariest uke lessons, teaching philosophy, and incorporating the ukulele into new soundscapes and styles.Next Level Ukulele: https://nextlevelukulele.com/Support the showJoin my newsletter! It's free and I won't spam you. Get updates on new lessons and access to exclusive reso
New Video Lessons Shoutout
Get the lessons here for $10 until midnight UST: https://liveukulele.com/store/hawaiian-songs/Support the showJoin my newsletter! It's free and I won't spam you. Get updates on new lessons and access to exclusive resources: https://liveukulele.com/signup/Support the podcast:Become a supporting member: https://liveukulele.com/register/supporting-member/?coupon=SUPPORT5Buy video lessons or
Hawaiian Songs For Ukulele
Philosophy on how I approach teaching Hawaiian music and my new course, Hawaiian Songs For Ukulele.Learn more and buy the lessons here: https://liveukulele.com/store/hawaiian-songs/Support the showJoin my newsletter! It's free and I won't spam you. Get updates on new lessons and access to exclusive resources: https://liveukulele.com/signup/Support the podcast:Become a supporting member:
Keola Donaghy on Keeping Mele Hawaiʻi Hawaiian
A conversation with the director of the Institute of Hawaiian Music. Keola is a composer, translator, and ʻōlelo tech nerd.Keola's website: https://keoladonaghy.com/Tennessee Whiskey in Hawaiian: https://open.spotify.com/track/12PMkbwHpQaWFg51g62ldX?si=3b5ea1da82bc433cInstitute of Hawaiian Music : https://maui.hawaii.edu/ihm/Support the showJoin my newsletter! It's free and I won't
The ONLY Theory You Should Learn
Resources:-Microtonal guitar: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OVZShd7GZAY-Tom Briar (as I remember) is the ragtime piano player I was talking about: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vhRBGCS8mlcSupport the showJoin my newsletter! It's free and I won't spam you. Get updates on new lessons and access to exclusive resources: https://liveukulele.com/signup/Support the podcast:Become a supporti
Easy Uke Hacks to Play Better (5 Things You're Doing Wrong)
These five musical enjoyment enhancers are underutilized tricks of the trade! In this episode we'll have a look at what making the mistake of under-using them means and how to implement them successfully.Resources: - Left Hand Technique for Ukulele course: https://liveukulele.com/store/left-hand-technique-video-course/- Street Theory workshop: https://liveukulele.com/store/street-theory-works
2022 In Review + Future Live Ukulele Plans
Sharing an overview and some thoughts on the year and what the future holds and projects I'm excited about.Resources:- Uke Logic Strings: https://theukulelesite.com/accessories/strings/ukelogic-strings.html- Sweetwater $8000 giveaway (affiliate link): https://imp.i114863.net/kjYJ4L- Uke For Ukraine live stream replay: https://liveukulele.com/ukraine/- Left Hand Technique For Ukulele course: h
My New Ukulele is Moore Bettah When Eaten? 🍈
Unveiling my new recording ukulele with stories and sound demos.Resources:- Moore Bettah Ukes (old photo galleries): http://www.moorebettahukes.com/- My spruce top Moore Bettah: https://liveukulele.com/about/moore-bettah-tenor-ukulele/Support the showJoin my newsletter! It's free and I won't spam you. Get updates on new lessons and access to exclusive resources: https://liveukulele.com/s
Joey Bradley: Collecting Ukes and Making Recordings
Fun, laid-back interview with Kohala-based artist, Joey Bradley, about his ukuleles and engineering projects.Contact Joey: jsbsound23@gmail.comSupport the showJoin my newsletter! It's free and I won't spam you. Get updates on new lessons and access to exclusive resources: https://liveukulele.com/signup/Support the podcast:Become a supporting member: https://liveukulele.com/register/suppo
Basic Hawaiian Language Pronunciation for Uke Players
A crash course on the very basics of ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi as it relates to singing Hawaiian songs.Resources:- Basic pronunciation and practice: http://papaolelo.weebly.com/uploads/1/0/2/2/102246944/1._ha%CA%BBawina_puana.pdf- Ka Hakalama practice sheet: http://papaolelo.weebly.com/uploads/1/0/2/2/102246944/pakuhihakalama.pdf- He Mele Aloha book: https://liveukulele.com/reviews/he-mele-aloha-a-hawaiian-s
TLUP: After Hours #4 - WA Tour, New Uke Samples, Updates
Support the showJoin my newsletter! It's free and I won't spam you. Get updates on new lessons and access to exclusive resources: https://liveukulele.com/signup/Support the podcast:Become a supporting member: https://liveukulele.com/register/supporting-member/?coupon=SUPPORT5Buy video lessons or a book: https://liveukulele.com/store/ Use my Sweetwater affiliate link next time you need to
Growing the Next Generation of Ukulele Players with Aaron Nakamura
Talking story with Aaron from Ukulele Underground about humble origins, accompaniment, and the future of one of the web's most popular uke websites.Mentions:- Ukulele Underground: https://ukuleleunderground.com/- Island Music Network: https://islandmusicnetwork.com/- Boywithuke: https://www.instagram.com/boywithuke/- Kanileʻa Reforestation Project: https://ukulelemagazine.com/stories/news/thi
Head Games: Enjoy Ukulele More
Ever think you're not good enough? Comparing yourself to other players? In this episode I explore giving ourselves the permission to enjoy ukulele at whatever our skill level is.Mentions:- Kahumoku Workshop: https://kahumoku.com/workshop/Support the showJoin my newsletter! It's free and I won't spam you. Get updates on new lessons and access to exclusive resources: https://liveukule
Uke Heads: James Hill's Album That Became A Community
Interview with James Hill on his new crowd-sourced ukulele recording project, Uke Heads. Buy a Uke Head art piece, learn an ukulele part, record yourself, get on the album. It's a cool concept that ventures into Blockchain territory so I invited my friend, Dagan Bernstein to join us and lend his expertise in NFTs and ukulele collaboration to the conversation.My guests: - James's Uke Head
Finding a Music Lifestyle That Benefits Your Uke Playing
How life experiences inform musical vocabulary and some of my thoughts on what a Hawaiian music lifestyle means to me. Resource links: - Uncle George's farm: https://kahumoku.com/kahumoku-farm-tour/Support the showJoin my newsletter! It's free and I won't spam you. Get updates on new lessons and access to exclusive resources: https://liveukulele.com/signup/Support the podcast:Become
Tuning Your Ukulele - Adjust to Perfection!
My process for tuning by ear and some tips and tricks to help you get the strings in more precise alignment.Resource links: - Chromatic scale lesson: https://liveukulele.com/lessons/fretboard-charts/#fretboard- True Temperament guitars: https://www.truetemperament.com/Support the showJoin my newsletter! It's free and I won't spam you. Get updates on new lessons and access to exclusive re
Ukulele Workshops and Festivals: Get the Most Out of It
Reflections on my years of attending and teaching at workshops. In which I provide some tips for ukulele players who want to get the most out of the experience. Resource links:- George Kahumoku, Jr.'s Slack Key and Ukulele Workshop - https://kahumoku.com/workshop/Support the showJoin my newsletter! It's free and I won't spam you. Get updates on new lessons and access to exclusive re
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