Ukulele Hammer-Ons & Slides: Beginner Tutorial

Ukulele Hammer-ons and Slides

This lesson focuses on two essential ukulele techniques: hammer-ons and slides. Mastering these will significantly enhance your playing and allow you to create more expressive melodies.

Hammer-ons

Hammer-ons involve striking a string with your fretting finger to produce a note, without plucking. This creates a percussive and connected sound. Practice transitioning smoothly between notes using this technique. Focus on accuracy and a clean sound, avoiding any muted or buzzing notes.

Slides

Slides involve smoothly moving your finger along the fretboard from one fret to another, creating a gliding effect. Experiment with different speeds and pressures to achieve varied tones. A smooth, controlled slide is key; avoid abrupt movements or jumps between notes.

Combining Hammer-ons and Slides

Combining hammer-ons and slides opens up a world of musical possibilities. Practice transitioning seamlessly between these techniques to create fluid and interesting phrases. Listen to your favorite ukulele players to get a feel for how these techniques are used in different musical contexts.

Practice Exercises

Start with simple exercises, focusing on accuracy and clean execution. Gradually increase the speed and complexity of your exercises as you improve. Regular practice is key to mastering these techniques.

Remember to maintain good posture and finger positioning for optimal comfort and sound.