The baritone ukulele is a unique and beloved member of the ukulele family that stands out for its distinctive size, tone, and tuning. As one of the four main ukulele sizes, the baritone offers deeper, richer sounds closer to that of a classical guitar, making it a favorite among musicians seeking a fuller voice while retaining the ukulele’s portability and charm. In this article, we will explore what the baritone ukulele is, its history and evolution, construction, sound characteristics, playing techniques, role in various music genres, notable players, and how to choose the right instrument for your needs.
What Is a Baritone Ukulele?
The baritone ukulele is a stringed instrument belonging to the ukulele family, characterized by its larger size and lower pitch compared to the soprano, concert, and tenor ukuleles. It typically has four nylon or gut strings tuned to D-G-B-E, the same as the highest four strings on a standard guitar, which gives it a deeper, mellower tone. This tuning allows guitar players to transition easily to the baritone ukulele. Physically, it usually measures about 27 inches in length, with a scale length (the vibrating length of the strings) ranging from 19 to 21 inches. Classified as a member of the lute family, the baritone ukulele offers a blend of portability and resonance.
History and Origins of the Baritone Ukulele
The ukulele originated in the 19th century in Hawaii, inspired by several small guitar-like instruments brought by Portuguese immigrants. While the soprano ukulele emerged as the standard size early on, the baritone ukulele appeared later in the 1940s and 1950s, created to appeal to guitar players who wanted a smaller, more portable instrument but with familiar tuning and feel. It was developed during a post-war boom in ukulele popularity and marketed as a bridge between the guitar and ukulele worlds.
Initially, the baritone ukulele was less common and often overshadowed by smaller ukuleles, but its unique tone and ease of use eventually carved out a niche. Over time, manufacturers refined its design, improving tonewoods, construction, and playability. The baritone ukulele also saw a resurgence in popularity during the late 20th and early 21st centuries as musicians explored new sounds and genres, integrating the instrument into folk, jazz, and pop music.
Structure and Design of the Baritone Ukulele
The baritone ukulele’s structure is similar to other ukuleles but scaled up. It has a larger, deeper body with a broader soundboard and a longer neck, accommodating the longer scale length needed for its lower tuning. The body shape usually resembles a classical guitar’s rounded figure but is smaller and lighter.
Materials commonly used include mahogany, koa, spruce, and cedar for the top, back, and sides. Mahogany and koa are favored for their warm tones and durability. The neck is often crafted from mahogany or nato, and the fretboard is typically rosewood or ebony. Many baritone ukuleles feature a gloss or satin finish that protects the wood while enhancing its natural beauty.
Compared to tenor and concert ukuleles, the baritone’s larger size contributes to a fuller, more resonant sound. The bridge and saddle, nut, and tuning machines are usually designed to handle the slightly higher string tension from the D-G-B-E tuning. Its four strings can be nylon, fluorocarbon, or gut, each affecting tone and playability.
How Does a Baritone Ukulele Sound?
The baritone ukulele produces a warm, rich, and mellow tone that is distinctly deeper than its smaller siblings. Its sound has more bass and midrange presence, often described as soulful and resonant. Because it shares the same tuning as the top four strings of a guitar, it sounds more guitar-like, with less of the bright, plucky character typical of soprano and concert ukuleles.
This deeper sound makes it especially suitable for ballads, jazz standards, blues, and folk music. The baritone’s tone sustains longer and can fill a room with a comforting, round sound that invites intimate performances and accompaniment. It is less bright and jangly but more full-bodied, appealing to players looking for a mellow, contemplative voice.
How to Play the Baritone Ukulele
Playing the baritone ukulele is similar to playing other ukuleles but requires some adaptation due to its tuning and size. Guitar players often find it easy to pick up because the tuning matches the highest four strings of a guitar (D-G-B-E). Beginners with no prior string instrument experience will need to get accustomed to the finger stretch and string spacing, which is slightly wider than soprano or concert ukuleles.
Common playing techniques include strumming, fingerpicking, and chord melodies. Because of the baritone’s tuning, guitar chord shapes can be adapted with relative ease, but it’s important to remember that chord voicings differ from standard ukulele tuning. This can open up new harmonic possibilities and unique sounds.
Many players use capo placement to change the key while retaining familiar chord shapes. Proper hand positioning, regular tuning checks, and attention to finger pressure are essential to produce clear, ringing notes and avoid buzzing. Using quality strings also enhances tone and playability.
Baritone Ukulele in Music Genres
The baritone ukulele is a versatile instrument that finds a place across many musical styles:
Folk and Acoustic: Its rich tone complements acoustic guitars, making it popular in singer-songwriter circles.
Jazz: The mellow voice suits jazz chord voicings and fingerstyle playing, offering an alternative to traditional jazz guitars.
Blues and Soul: Its warm, deep sound supports blues progressions and soulful melodies.
Pop and Indie: Increasingly, indie artists incorporate baritone ukuleles to add texture and warmth.
Hawaiian Music: Though less common than soprano and concert ukuleles, the baritone is sometimes used to enrich traditional Hawaiian sounds.
Its unique tuning and tone have inspired composers and performers to explore creative arrangements and broaden the ukulele’s role beyond its traditional boundaries.
Notable Baritone Ukulele Players
Several prominent musicians have showcased the baritone ukulele in recordings and live performances, helping to elevate its status.
Jake Shimabukuro: Though best known for his soprano ukulele mastery, Jake occasionally uses baritone ukuleles for deeper tones in live shows and recordings.
James Hill: This Canadian ukulele virtuoso often features baritone ukulele pieces, blending folk and jazz influences with technical skill.
Gabe Witcher: A member of the Punch Brothers, Witcher has used the baritone ukulele to add distinct layers to his bluegrass and folk projects.
Gabriel Royal: Known for soulful, introspective performances, Gabriel frequently performs with a baritone ukulele, highlighting its emotional depth.
These artists have helped demonstrate the baritone’s versatility and musical potential, inspiring new generations of players.
Choosing a Baritone Ukulele: What to Consider
When selecting a baritone ukulele, several factors come into play depending on your experience level, budget, and musical goals.
Beginner vs. Professional Models
Beginners should look for instruments with good playability, clear sound, and durable construction. Starter baritone ukuleles tend to use laminate woods and basic hardware to keep costs low but remain functional.
Professional models often feature solid tonewoods like koa, mahogany, or spruce, high-quality tuners, and refined craftsmanship. These instruments deliver superior tone, responsiveness, and aesthetics.
Materials and Construction
The choice of wood strongly influences tone. Solid wood tops produce richer, more resonant sound compared to laminated tops. Mahogany offers warmth, spruce adds brightness, and koa blends warmth with clarity.
Finish and Hardware
Finishes can be gloss, satin, or matte. Gloss finishes enhance appearance and protect the wood but can feel sticky in humid environments. Satin finishes provide a smooth, natural feel.
Tuning machines should be sturdy and precise. Look for sealed gears rather than open gears for longevity.
Recommended Brands and Models
Kala: Widely respected for quality and variety, Kala offers solid wood baritone ukuleles at various price points.
Martin & Co.: Known for premium instruments, Martin’s baritone ukuleles are crafted with high-end tonewoods and attention to detail.
Cordoba: Offers well-crafted baritone models with excellent playability, suited for intermediate and professional players.
Lanikai: Produces affordable yet reliable baritone ukuleles ideal for beginners and hobbyists.
Try several instruments if possible to find one that feels comfortable and inspires your playing.
Conclusion
The baritone ukulele is a compelling instrument that combines the familiar feel of guitar tuning with the portability and charm of the ukulele family. Its rich, mellow sound, distinctive design, and versatility across music genres make it an excellent choice for musicians of all levels. Understanding its history, construction, and tonal qualities allows players to appreciate this unique instrument fully. Whether you are a beginner searching for your first ukulele or a seasoned professional exploring new sonic landscapes, the baritone ukulele offers an inspiring and rewarding musical experience.
