You may be wondering, do I need a ukulele strap? My experience is that having one really helps! When I started to learn more complicated left and right hand patterns, I definitely felt I needed one. The strap keeps the ukulele in place, which makes it easier to move around on the instrument.

What type of strap should you get? I got a ukulele thong, because I did not have an end button on my soprano ukulele. The thong has a small hook that hooks into the sound hole of your ukulele. They can be hard to find. Classical guitarists also use these types of straps, so the Guitar Center can order one for you.

I’ve been working on holiday songs to sing and teach at school: “Let It Snow” and “Winter Wonderland.” Both songs have a lot of changes and fairly complicated strumming patterns. I also want to include a ukulele solo section with finger picking in the main part of each song.

Well, I’ve learned where some of the higher notes are on the ukulele, some bar chords and some movable chords. I’ve also learned some more complicated strumming patterns with chunking and coordinating all of these techniques with singing. I practice at home with an accompaniment track I created through Band In A Box, and have gradually gotten better at the songs.

So, do I need a ukulele strap?

Yes, you do. I would recommend a strap for a ukulele. Also, I play and teach violin. I would compare the strap to using a shoulder rest on the violin or viola. Without one, you can still play, but it is difficult to shift or do vibrato, unless you are already quite accomplished. Why not make it easier for yourself, and buy a ukulele strap? Check this page for our recommendations on straps and other ukulele accessories.