Ukulele
Martin 3K Ukulele | |
| String instrument | |
|---|---|
| Classification | Stringed instrument (plucked, nylon-stringed instrument usually played with the bare thumb and/or fingertips, or a felt pick) |
| Hornbostel–Sachs classification | 321.322 (Composite chordophone) |
| Developed | 19th century in Hawaii (introduced by the Portuguese) |
| Playing range | |
| C4–A5 (C6 tuning) | |
| Related instruments | |
| |
| Sound sample | |
|
Soprano ukulele being played | |
The ukulele (/ˌjuːkəˈleɪli/ YOO-kə-LAY-lee; Hawaiian: [ʔukulele] 'OO-koo-leh-leh); also called a uke (informally), is a member of the lute (ancient guitar) family of instruments. The ukulele is of Portuguese origin and was popularized in Hawaii. The tone and volume of the instrument vary with size and construction. Ukuleles commonly come in four sizes: soprano, concert, tenor, and baritone.
Ukuleles generally have four nylon strings tuned to GCEA. They have 16–22 frets depending on the size.