Soprano Ukulele

Soprano Ukulele

The soprano ukulele is the smallest and most common form of ukulele. In Hawaii, which is where the instrument originates, the soprano uke (a common abbreviation) is referred to as the ‘standard’ because it was the original size before the concert, tenor and baritone ukuleles were created. A soprano ukulele is well known for the thin and jangly sound which makes the instrument so famous.

In general, the soprano ukulele is chosen for beginners because it is the most common and least expensive form of uke. Its scale length is only 13 inches (33cm) which makes it extremely easy to stretch for chord shapes. In layman’s terms, it makes the soprano uke a fantastic instrument to strum chords on. The total length of the soprano ukulele is just 21 inches (53cm), making it a diminutive instrument which is very easy to transport.

Like most ukuleles, higher quality sopranos tend to be made from wood. However, it’s possible to find ukes made from plastic or laminate woods which are ideal for budding musicians on a budget. The most expensive kind of soprano ukuleles are ones made from the Hawaiian wood, Koa. Such instruments can cost several thousand dollars. The most basic soprano ukes have four strings though larger ukuleles can have six or eight.

The Mahalo and Makala soprano ukes are probably the best cheap uke on the market. You can expect to pick up one of these brands in an online music shop such as the Southern Ukulele Store for less than £20 which makes the ukulele one of the best instruments to buy on a budget. Ohana soprano ukuleles will cost in the region of £100 and are usually laminated with expensive wood on the top and cheaper wood underneath. If you just want to play the soprano uke and are not concerned with tradition, it is even possible to purchase electric sopranos. However, beginners are urged to stick with the standard form.