The ukulele is an instrument known for the vibe it projects as much as for the distinct sounds it produces. Casual, fun, and perfect for almost any relaxed musical setting, the ukulele has seen a serious resurgence in mainstream popularity over the last few years. Artists such as Elvis Costello, Eddie Vedder, and Amanda Palmer have all been known to step on stage and strum a song or two on their ukes. Now it’s time for you to join the ranks of tenor ukulele players all over the world. The tenor ukulele is one of the most common types of ukulele on the market today. A little larger than most, it is known for its slightly deeper tone that differs from the typical, higher pitched ukulele sound.
When it comes time to choose your own tenor ukulele, there are definitely a few things to keep in mind. Most notably, you should know that different woods used in construction can alter the sound of your uke. For example, tenor ukuleles made from mahogany such as the LU22CGC Concert Ukulele from Lanikai provides a nice balance between the bright sounds the instrument is famous for and bass tones for a rounder sonic experience. On the other hand, a ukulele made from Koa, such as the Fender Nohea Koa Tenor Ukulele, will produce a sound that is both warm and sweet. Of course, ukuleles are made from a variety of different woods, so getting to know the sounds of each will go a long way in helping you make the decision on which instrument to choose.
Many tenor ukes also feature the option to plug into an amp for added volume. This is especially beneficial if you are a professional player performing in a larger venue. If an acoustic-electric ukulele is what you’re looking for, definitely take some time to check out instruments such as the 25TK-CE Tenor Cutaway Electric Ukulele from Cordoba. Having the option to plug in can be very beneficial, but is not always necessary, so be sure to consider what will work best for you.
When it comes down to it, the tenor ukulele that is right for you is going to be the one that catches your eye with its style and ear with its sounds. With so many options available, all you’re going to have to concern yourself with is sitting down, strumming your favorite ukulele chords, and enjoying the beautiful music you can make on your tenor uke.
