Ukuleles are so popular these days and now and again you will see someone pull one out and play one. But what type of ukulele would this person be playing? What are the different types of Ukuleles and do they differ?

Most newbies and beginners of Ukuleles need to know the different types of these wonderful instruments before they purchase one or start playing, it is of course very important as it will set you on the road to becoming a comfortable player once you have the right Ukulele for you in your hand knowing that it feels right, basically finding you Ukulele soul mate to love, cherrish and bond.

Because of the different sizes and construction, Uke's will vary in tone and volume. Lets start with the four most common types of Ukuleles and how they vary!

1 Soprano

This is the “classic” Ukulele and what people think of when thinking about ukuleles. They are the smallest and original Uke, around  21” long with a sweet tone and a perfect instrument for a beginner.

2  Concert

This is next in size and is just a little larger that the Soprano at 23' long with a bigger and deeper sound. It was created in the 1920's as an enhanced Soprano. If you have slightly larger hands than the average this instrument may suit you.

3  Tenor

Again, larger at 26” long and more like a four stringed guitar. It can also come with different number of strings and has an even fuller tone with more volume than the concert. It is possible to get an eight stringed Tenor Ukulele. The Tenor Ukulele is popular amongst professional musicians.

4  Baritone

Created in the 1940's, this is the largest of the Ukuleles at 30” long and can look like a mini guitar. It has also four different notes as in g, b, d and e with the deepest tone and can be tuned like a guitar. It can also be the most expensive and is a popular Ukulele instrument for guitar players.

The Tenor and Baritone are more like four stringed guitars and even tuned like them. They sound differently a lot like a classical guitar defined as “warm” and less “jumping flea”.The problem is most music shops do not sell them nor is there many books teaching you to play them so they are an instrument really for people with experience.

There are other types of Ukuleles such as The Banjo Ukulele, The Pineapple Ukulele, Harp Ukulele and an Armadillo Ukulele that is yes, really made from Armadillo shells!

There are other types of Ukuleles of course but they all relate to the four main types spoken about above. If you are Learning to play Ukulele you are better to start with a Soprano and as you progress as a player finding your rhythm you can move on to other types of Ukuleles becoming a master. Just know the types of instruments before you purchase your Ukulele and take your time learning as it is not too difficult to learn how to play and most importantly, relax and enjoy!