The concert ukulele is a beloved instrument with a rich history and distinct sound, cherished by musicians around the world. Whether you are a beginner looking to start your musical journey or a seasoned player seeking a versatile instrument, understanding the concert ukulele is essential. This article provides an in-depth look at what a concert ukulele is, its history, design, sound characteristics, playing techniques, and much more. By the end, you’ll have a comprehensive grasp of this unique instrument.
What Is a Concert Ukulele?
The concert ukulele is a member of the ukulele family, which is a small, four-stringed instrument belonging to the lute family. It is larger than the soprano ukulele but smaller than the tenor, striking a balance between portability and playability. Typically, a concert ukulele measures about 23 inches in total length with a scale length around 15 inches. It is tuned in standard GCEA tuning, similar to the soprano and tenor ukuleles, but its slightly longer scale length provides a deeper tone and more frets for playing versatility.
The concert ukulele falls under the category of fretted string instruments, often used for melody, chords, and accompaniment. Its nylon or fluorocarbon strings give it a mellow, warm sound distinct from other string instruments like guitars or mandolins.
History and Origins of the Concert Ukulele
The ukulele originated in Hawaii in the late 19th century, inspired by Portuguese string instruments such as the machete, brought by immigrants from Madeira and the Azores. The concert ukulele, specifically, evolved as players sought an instrument that combined the bright tone of the soprano with greater volume and fretboard space.
Initially, ukuleles were mostly soprano-sized and used in Hawaiian folk music. As the instrument gained popularity in the early 20th century, especially during the 1910s and 1920s, the concert size became common among performers who wanted more range and a fuller sound for concerts and recordings. Over time, the concert ukulele carved its niche, balancing portability with a richer tonal palette.
Structure and Design of the Concert Ukulele
The concert ukulele typically features a body length between 15 and 16 inches and a total length near 23 inches. Its body is slightly larger than the soprano, providing a more resonant sound chamber. The neck is wider and longer, allowing more frets—usually 15 to 20—compared to the soprano’s 12 to 15. This offers players additional musical freedom.
The design includes a figure-eight body shape with a flat back or slightly arched back depending on the maker. The sound hole is traditionally circular, but some models feature unique shapes for aesthetic or acoustic reasons. The fretboard is usually made of rosewood or ebony, and the bridge is crafted from similar hardwoods.
Materials used in concert ukuleles range from traditional solid woods like koa, mahogany, and spruce, to laminated woods and even synthetic materials such as carbon fiber or plastic. Solid koa wood ukuleles are highly prized for their tonal warmth and Hawaiian heritage, while mahogany models tend to produce a warm, balanced sound ideal for various genres.
Compared to other ukulele sizes, the concert’s balance of size and tone makes it versatile. It offers more sustain and volume than a soprano but remains more compact than a tenor or baritone ukulele.
How Does a Concert Ukulele Sound?
The concert ukulele produces a warm, rich, and balanced tone that sits comfortably between the bright, high-pitched soprano and the deeper, fuller tenor. Its longer scale length allows for clearer note articulation and slightly more bass response, which enhances its musical versatility. The nylon or fluorocarbon strings contribute to a mellow timbre, with a sweet, lyrical quality that suits a wide range of playing styles—from fingerpicking to strumming.
The concert ukulele’s sound is bright enough to cut through in ensemble settings but soft enough for intimate solo performances. Its tone is often described as cheerful, soothing, and expressive, making it a favorite for both casual playing and professional use.
How to Play the Concert Ukulele
Playing the concert ukulele is accessible for beginners while still offering depth for advanced players. The standard tuning is GCEA, with the G string often tuned high (reentrant tuning), though some players prefer a low G tuning for extended range.
Right-hand techniques include various strumming patterns, fingerpicking, and even percussive taps on the body to add rhythm. Left-hand playing involves pressing strings against the frets to create notes and chords. The wider neck of the concert ukulele compared to soprano models provides more space for finger positioning, which many players find comfortable.
Beginners should focus on basic chords and strumming patterns, gradually moving to scales, arpeggios, and more complex fingerstyle techniques. Advanced players exploit the additional frets and tonal range to perform intricate melodies, chord-melody arrangements, and jazz or classical pieces.
Concert Ukulele in Music Genres
The concert ukulele’s versatility allows it to fit seamlessly into many musical genres. It is commonly associated with Hawaiian music, where it originated, providing the bright, joyous backdrop for traditional and contemporary Hawaiian songs.
Beyond Hawaii, the concert ukulele has found its place in folk, pop, jazz, blues, and even classical music. Its portability makes it a favored instrument for singer-songwriters and acoustic performers worldwide. Contemporary artists often use it for indie and alternative styles, highlighting its unique sound and intimate tone.
Jazz players appreciate the concert ukulele for its ability to handle complex chord voicings and melodic lines, while pop musicians utilize its bright, catchy tone to add texture to recordings. The instrument’s accessibility has also made it popular in educational settings, promoting music learning for all ages.
Choosing a Concert Ukulele: What to Consider
When selecting a concert ukulele, consider your skill level, musical goals, and budget. Beginners may prefer laminated wood models for affordability and durability, while professionals often opt for solid wood instruments for superior tone and resonance.
Key factors to evaluate include:
Materials: Solid koa or mahogany for rich sound; laminated woods for cost-effectiveness.
Construction: Look for quality craftsmanship, smooth fretwork, and stable tuning machines.
Finish: Glossy or satin finishes affect the instrument’s appearance and slightly influence the sound.
Tuning machines: Quality tuners ensure tuning stability and ease of use.
Recommended brands for concert ukuleles include Kala, Cordoba, Martin, Kamaka, and Lanikai. Kala is especially popular for beginner and intermediate players due to its variety and affordability. Kamaka is revered for handcrafted Hawaiian koa instruments, often favored by professionals.
Try to test multiple models to find one that feels comfortable and suits your tonal preference. Pay attention to neck shape, weight, and fretboard width.
Conclusion
The concert ukulele is a perfect blend of size, tone, and versatility, making it an excellent choice for musicians of all levels. Its rich history, balanced sound, and comfortable playability allow it to shine in many musical contexts. Whether you want to explore Hawaiian melodies, strum folk tunes, or perform complex jazz arrangements, the concert ukulele offers a reliable and expressive platform. Choosing the right concert ukulele involves understanding your needs, trying different models, and appreciating the craftsmanship behind this charming instrument. Embrace the concert ukulele, and let it become your musical companion on your creative journey.
