In this easy tutorial, I'll show you how to play jazz chords for baritone ukulele. Almost all of these chords can be played without barring! We'll start with basic chords and then look at some exciting variations.
Visit me at www.patreon.com/abigailflowersmusic for a handout that includes an e-book of chord diagrams discussed in this video AS WELL as the concert/standard ukulele version of all the chords discussed here!
I'll start by showing you some basic chords--come back to this video as often as you like to learn and practice along! Then we'll look at some "upgraded" chords--variations on the basic chords that can add some fun colors to your playing. At the end, we'll learn a basic chord progression and a jazzy chord progression. Both of these progressions are great tools to use as you practice getting these chord shapes into your hands.
0:00 - Introduction
0:22 - Basic chords (G major, E minor, E major, C major, D major, D minor, A major, A minor, F major, Fmaj7)
2:36 - Variations/jazz chords begin (variations on G)
4:29 - E minor 9
5:02 - E7, E7b9
6:20 - C7, C7 movable shape, C(add#11)
7:54 - Dmaj7, D7, D6, Dm7
10:02 - A7, A7 variation 1, A6, Am7
12:10 - Fadd2
12:40 - practice progressions
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To learn more about how to play the ukulele (I teach both baritone and concert), visit me at patreon.com/abigailflowersmusic or email me at contact@abigailflowersmusic.com to schedule an online lesson!
Are you getting started with your baritone ukulele? Here are some products that I find super helpful! (FYI, I get a small commission at no cost to you if you decide to buy through one of these links!)
-Snark tuner: amzn.to/3oB1MHl
I wouldn’t buy one that says it’s for ukulele because we want one that has a guitar setting, since that’s what our tuning matches.
-Walker & Williams straps: amzn.to/3cpkjDW or amzn.to/3pAt4yL
These aren’t the exact same as my strap because they make them in limited qualities, but I LOVE my strap and would highly recommend W&W!
-Hercules ukulele stand, perfect for baritone: amzn.to/3t7DiZH
Traditional floor stands often have trouble fitting a baritone, while this one fits any size instrument.
-D’Addario strings: amzn.to/2MbBr5x
These are what I use because they were what the local shop had in! I’m not a string nerd, but I definitely like these!
-Baritone case: amzn.to/36qOsz2
This is the case I use. While I ADORE the more vintage-looking, hard cases, I’ve found that they just don’t have the same storage as this one. I use the pocket and inside compartment to carry cables, tuners, extra strings, batteries etc.
-Hard baritone case: amzn.to/3tll4nJ
Now, if you don’t need the pocket, is there anything in the world more handsome than this case?! I don’t own one myself but if I needed a case for the aesthetic over the storage, I would buy this one.
-Baritone fly case: amzn.to/3csORVl
Again, I do not own this, but fiberglass cases are great for if you need to fly with your instrument. Plan A should always be to keep your instrument with you, but if you are absolutely unable, this is the type of case many musicians use.
-Fishman amp: amzn.to/3tfAN7J
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve used this amp. It’s perfect for solo performances where I’m playing and singing. I’ve only ever had 1 gig where it wasn’t sufficient, and that was outdoors and there was a waterfall between me and the audience. This is an incredible investment for solo performers, but I’ve also used it in many a small group setting.
-Music stand: amzn.to/3pCLeQf
This is the stand I use, and to be completely honest there are things that annoy me about it. But here’s what’s priceless: the easy grip extender thing--I just squeeze and it moves freely. ALSO I will never go back to using a stand that doesn’t have the little metal clips to keep your music in place. Whether you’re playing outdoors or playing indoors with a strong fan, you’re going to regret buying a stand that doesn’t have the metal clips at some point!
-Cheaper music stand: amzn.to/36qdnCv
I don’t own this stand, but if you’re looking for a cheaper option, this may be a good place to start! With music stands, you always have to be careful about the weight you put on them. Try not to put large, heavy books on if possible.