Size and Portability
One of the most obvious differences between guitars and ukuleles is their physical size. Ukuleles are significantly smaller than their guitar cousins and are lighter weight and more portable as a result. Their size makes them particularly ideal for kids, travelers, or anyone who wants a fun-sized instrument to bring along on their adventures. Traditional guitars are larger, allowing them to provide a richer, fuller sound that’s suitable for a wide range of applications.
String Differences
While a traditional guitar has six strings, typically made of steel (acoustic/electric models) or nylon (classical), ukuleles only have 4 nylon strings. Nylon strings are much softer than their steel counterparts, and this softness combined with the physical size of the instrument makes it easier for children with small hands to get used to playing different cords, strumming patterns, etc. The smaller fretboard and lighter strings also make it easier to perform techniques such as slides and bends.
Tuning and Range
Ukuleles and guitars have differing tuning points, with the former typically being tuned to G-C-E-A opposed to the standard E-A-D-G-B-E cord tuning found on guitars. The tuning of ukuleles is what helps give them their distinct, bright and high pitched sound (more on that in a moment!), whereas the additional strings and broader range of notes gives guitars the rich sounds they’re known for.
Sound and Tone
If you’ve ever listened to Hawaiian music, there’s no doubt you know the infamous “happy” and bright sound of a ukulele that adds an upbeat tinge to any song. This sounds comes from both the size of the instrument, as well as the style of strings, cord arrangement and more. Guitar on the other hand offer a broader range of sounds, all the way from mellow and bright to rich and moody that enhances your versatility while playing.
Musical Styles
The ukulele is closely associated with Hawaiian music as well as folk tunes thanks to its unique tone. Modern music has also seen a rise in ukuleles entering newer genres like pop and indie tracks. While these little instruments often evoke tropical vibes with their sound, they’re fit in to multiple types of music!
Guitars are well known for their versatility and how universally used they are across multiple musical genres from classical to rock n roll, jazz, and everything in between!
Discover the Magic of Ukuleles with Musicworks
Looking for an unforgettable way to celebrate your child’s birthday and broaden their musical horizons? Musicworks Canada is pleased to offer brand new birthday party options at our 25+ locations across Canada! Designed to provide hands-on fun and instruction, our parties allow small groups to create and decorate their very own ukulele and then learn some of the basics with the help of our talented instructors.
Whether you’re looking to build upon your child’s existing musical passion and supplement their current musical lessons (did you know we offer in-person and online instruction for a variety of musical instruments?) or to open the door to new opportunities, Musicworks is here to help! We are proud to be a trusted source of musical and academic instruction for learners of all ages and backgrounds, and love to see our students recognize and achieve their full potential!
Learn more about our ukulele lessons here!
