The Ekolu 3-String Ukulele Strumming Mastery Book by Terry Carter offers a fun and structured approach to learning rhythm on a unique instrument. With 53 pages of lessons, exercises, and songs, this book helps players build confidence while exploring the possibilities of a three-string ukulele.
Whether learning basic chords or tackling more advanced rhythms, players can develop their strumming skills one step at a time. Additionally, the book serves as a companion to the Ekolu Strumming Mastery video course from Uke Like The Pros.
What Makes the 'Ekolu Ukulele Different?
The 'Ekolu is a unique three-string ukulele designed by six-time Grammy winner Daniel Ho in collaboration with Romero Creations. Its name means "three" in Hawaiian, which perfectly describes its unusual design.
Unlike traditional four-string ukuleles, the 'Ekolu removes the G string, leaving three strings for playing chords and melodies. As a result, players can explore a simplified instrument while still enjoying a variety of musical possibilities.
Furthermore, its distinctive setup creates an interesting learning experience for beginners and experienced ukulele players looking to try something different.
Start With Basic Chords and Strumming Patterns
Every great strumming technique starts with a solid foundation. Therefore, this book introduces essential chords and simple rhythms before moving into more challenging material.
Players begin by exploring common chords, including C, Am, F, and G. Additionally, the book introduces several beginner-friendly patterns that help develop steady timing and coordination.
Some of the basic patterns include:
- D-D-D: A simple down-strum pattern.
- D-DU-D: Introduces alternating down and up movements.
- D-D-DUDU: Adds more rhythmic movement.
- Island Strum: A popular rhythm commonly used in ukulele music.
By practicing these patterns, players can improve their timing while becoming more comfortable with the 'Ekolu's three-string layout.
Explore Intermediate and Advanced Strumming Techniques
Once the basics feel comfortable, the book introduces more interesting rhythms and transitions. These lessons help players develop smoother chord changes and add variety to their playing.
For example, the Shine On Strum (D-DU-D-DU) introduces a flowing rhythm, while the Bayliner Strum (D-DX-UXU) adds muted strums for a more percussive sound.
Moreover, these techniques encourage players to experiment with rhythm instead of relying on the same strumming pattern for every song.
As players progress, they can develop greater control, improve their musical expression, and approach more challenging arrangements with confidence.
Learn Songs While Building Your Skills
Learning songs is one of the most enjoyable ways to practice a new instrument. Fortunately, this book includes musical selections that allow players to apply their developing strumming techniques.
Featured songs include:
- Lemon Drops and Yellow Canarys
- Sancho's Revenge
- Hawaiian Noho Pai Pai
These songs provide opportunities to practice chord transitions, rhythmic accuracy, and different strumming approaches.
Additionally, playing complete songs helps turn individual exercises into practical musical skills.
Understanding Diatonic Chords in C and G
Beyond strumming techniques, the book also introduces diatonic chords in the keys of C and G. These lessons help players understand how chords relate to one another within a musical key. As a result, players can begin recognizing common chord progressions and developing a stronger understanding of song structure.
Furthermore, this knowledge can help musicians become more comfortable learning new songs and exploring different chord combinations.
Learn Alongside the Uke Like The Pros Video Course
Another useful feature is the book's connection to the Ekolu 3-String Ukulele Strumming Mastery video course from Uke Like The Pros. The book serves as a companion to the video lessons, giving players a written resource to reference while learning new techniques.
Additionally, the video course offers another way to follow along with the material and reinforce important concepts. The video course is available through the Uke Like The Pros website separately from the book.
Who Should Try This Strumming Book?
This book is a great option for musicians who want to explore the 'Ekolu ukulele. Beginners can follow the structured lessons to develop essential skills, while experienced players can discover new rhythms and techniques.
Additionally, traditional ukulele players who are curious about the three-string design may enjoy exploring familiar musical concepts in a different format.
Whether practicing independently or alongside the video course, the book provides a clear path toward stronger strumming skills.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 'Ekolu ukulele?
The 'Ekolu is a three-string ukulele designed by Daniel Ho in collaboration with Romero Creations. Unlike a traditional ukulele, it removes the G string and uses three strings for playing chords and melodies.
How many pages does the book have?
The book contains 53 pages and measures 8.5" x 11", providing space for lessons, exercises, strumming patterns, and songs.
What strumming patterns are covered?
The book covers D-D-D, D-DU-D, D-D-DUDU, the Island Strum, Shine On Strum, and Bayliner Strum. Additionally, it introduces more advanced techniques as players progress.
What songs are included?
Players can learn Lemon Drops and Yellow Canarys, Sancho's Revenge, and Hawaiian Noho Pai Pai while applying the chords and strumming patterns covered throughout the book.
Is there a companion video course?
Yes! The book accompanies the Ekolu 3-String Ukulele Strumming Mastery video course, available through Uke Like The Pros.
Who wrote the book?
Terry Carter, founder of Uke Like The Pros, wrote the book to help musicians develop their strumming skills on the unique three-string 'Ekolu ukulele.
Final Thoughts: A Complete Guide to 'Ekolu Strumming
The Ekolu 3-String Ukulele Strumming Mastery Book offers a practical and enjoyable way to develop rhythm, chord knowledge, and strumming techniques.
With 53 pages covering beginner patterns, advanced rhythms, songs, and diatonic chords, it gives musicians a structured approach to exploring the 'Ekolu.
Ultimately, whether picking up the instrument for the first time or expanding existing ukulele skills, this book provides a valuable resource for mastering the art of three-string strumming.
Get the Ekolu 3-String Ukulele Strumming Mastery Book by Terry Carter HERE
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