Earlier in 2024, host Chris Russell was asked some questions about ukulele education, and he chose to record those thoughts in a longer format rather than to attempt to respond on YouTube.
He has been busy (see Episode 43), and did not get around to publicly sharing that Podcast, although he did share it privately with the person asking the questions shortly after recording the podcast.
Six months later (June 2024), here are the answers to the questions from that YouTube comment!
Melanie Doane is quietly one of the most influential people in the world of the ukulele. Daughter of J. Chalmers Doane (the educator who introduced a systematic ukulele program that spread throughout Canada), Melanie has had a rich career as a actress in musicals, as a Juno award winning musician in the pop scene, and as the executive director of the Doane Music School, a ukulele program reaching roughly 1000 students in the Toronto area. In addition, Melanie produced and starred in a family/children’s focused short format TV series called Ukulele U. While episodes of Ukulele U are available in Canada on YouTube, a couple of episodes are available on YouTube in the USA.
In this episode, host Chris Russell visits with Melanie Doane about her musical journey—of which ukulele has and continues to play an important role.
(00:00:00) Intro
(00:01:02) About J. Chalmers Doane
(00:11:38) Northern Ukuleles
(00:14:54) Pursuing Musical Theater
(00:19:50) Experiences in Pop Music
(00:23:05) Doane Music School
(00:38:40) D6 Tuning and Linear Tuning
(00:44:51) Musical Legacy
(00:48:27) Size of the Doane Music School Program
(00:51:13) Melanie’s Mya Moe Ukulele
(00:52:17) Supporting the Doane Music School
(00:56:21) Working Through the Pandemic
(00:59:45) Doane Music School Collaborations
(01:02:03) Ukulele U Television Program
In this episode, host Chris Russell visits with music educator and YouTube creator, David Gray. David is a primary music educator in the United Kingdom who has been creating wonderful resources on YouTube, and also is an associate of Octopus Ukulele.
In this podcast, Chris and David talk about many issues, such as the differences between music education and teacher preparation in the United States and the United Kingdom, the processes they use to make YouTube videos, recorder instruction, and of course, ukulele materials.
David’s resources can be found at https://www.youtube.com/@musicwithmrgray and https://www.tes.com/teaching-resources/shop/iamsomewhere
(00:00:00) Intro
(00:01:08) Discussing Music Education in the USA and the UK
(00:18:03) The YouTube resources at Music with Mr Gray
(00:43:10) Ukulele Topics
(01:07:48) Final thoughts
Host Chris Russell has the opportunity to visit with Aaron and Nicole Keim from The Quiet American (their performing group) and Beansprout Musical Instruments (Their instrument company).
Aaron and Nicole were raised in Wisconsin, slowly landed in the world of folk music, and then professionally located in Colorado and Oregon as they established an instrument company, a performance group, and a publishing enterprise. Along the way, they also worked for/with Gordon and Char at Mya-Moe Ukulele, and introduced their son Henry to the world.
Post-pandemic, their main focus is Beansprout Musical Instruments, where you can purchase a hand-crafted instrument (literally built by hand) out of renewable North American tonewoods (or some reclaimed tonewoods) influenced by the designs of the past, yet with a modern twist. You can also buy many instructional books that were written by Aaron and Nicole, and then painstakingly created—by hand—by Nicole. Simply put, they are excellent instructional books created by self-identifying “folk musicians” who also have training and advanced degrees as music educators.
Aaron also recently received a grant from Mortise and Tenon magazine to study Kingdom-Era instruments (instruments built from 1879-1893; the first ukuleles), and he has written an article for the magazine and at the time of publishing of this podcast, has built three instruments in the style of the kingdom era instruments. Those instruments are impacting some aspects of his design including the use of some inlays and some uses of the early headstocks.
Aaron and Nicole were incredibly kind to share about of their journey on a Sunday afternoon, and the result is a wonderful podcast discussing the journey of a family that continues to provide so much for the ukulele community as builders, authors, teachers, and presenters.
(00:00) Introduction
(03:18) What was school music like for you?
(06:38) When did ukulele come into your life?
(08:17) James Hill vs. Denise Gagne (https://tinyurl.com/Uke-Vs-Recorder)
(10:06) Graduate school experiences (While in Colorado)
(13:00) Any guitar experience?
(14:43) When did the building start?
(23:22) Why do banjo ukuleles have ukulele strings?
(24:40) Do you have any of your early ukuleles around?
(26:13) What is your response when you see your early work?
(26:53) When does the collaboration with Mya-Moe begin?
(36:37) How did you transition out of Mya-Moe?
(41:10) When does the publishing begin?
(47:37) After learning chords, what is the next step for players?
(52:31) Where is Beansprout today?
(58:03) Why do you offer an “Alto” uke?
(59:57) Beansprout Artists
(01:02:27) Dave Matthews Band
(01:04:35) The Wayfinder Ukulele
(01:06:06) A quick discussion of tonewoods
(01:12:30) Vintage repairs & Kingdom Era Project
(01:28:08) Contact information
In this podcast, host Chris Russell visits with Mike McQueen, the owner of The Uke Republic in Austell, Georgia (a suburb of Atlanta).
The discussion covers a wide range of topics, including the history of The Uke Republic, some perspective from the sales side of the industry, and a lot of Mike’s entertaining personality and humor.
If you are interested in a new ukulele, The Uke Republic carries a wide range of makes and models, and can often obtain or preorder instruments that they do not currently have. You can find the Uke Repúblic at: https://www.ukerepublic.com/
In this episode of the UkeStuff Podcast, we visit with Pete McCarty, the world’s greatest ukulele song leader. Pete lives in Memphis, Tennessee, and helped to found the Memphis Ukulele Flash Mob.
Pete has led song/jam sessions throughout the world, including at MUFM events in Tennessee, Georgia, Alabama, Florida, Indiana, Minnesota, Hawaii, and in the United Kingdom.
The ukulele community invites you to the 2024 Uke n’ Roll Ukulele Festival in Memphis, Tennessee (April 18-21). See more information at https://memphisukenroll.com
In this episode of the UkeStuff Podcast, host Chris Russell visits with Daniel Ho for the second of two podcasts, and the focus is more on education topics.
Daniel is an ‘ukulele virtuoso, slack key guitarist, multi-instrumentalist, composer, arranger, singer-songwriter, producer, audio engineer, and record company owner. He is a six-time Grammy Award winner, twelve-time Grammy Award nominee, six-time Taiwanese Golden Melody Award winner, and recipient of multiple Hawaiian Music awards. To learn more about Daniel Ho, visit https://www.danielho.com/
Want to make a donation towards this work? Visit https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ukestuff
In this episode of the UkeStuff Podcast, host Chris Russell visits with Daniel Ho for the first of two podcasts.
Daniel is an ‘ukulele virtuoso, slack key guitarist, multi-instrumentalist, composer, arranger, singer-songwriter, producer, audio engineer, and record company owner. He is a six-time Grammy Award winner, twelve-time Grammy Award nominee, six-time Taiwanese Golden Melody Award winner, and recipient of multiple Hawaiian Music awards. To learn more about Daniel Ho, visit https://www.danielho.com/
Want to make a donation towards this work? Visit https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ukestuff
Today was a day where I ended up discussing left handed ukulele playing as a teacher twice. First, at the Georgia Music Educators Association, and the later on Facebook.
So I am clear, I allow my left handed students (in 5th grade at the point) to decide if they want to play right handed, left handed, or to flip a right handed to be played like a left handed ukulele. I make a video covering the positives and negatives, and ask parents and students to choose how they want to learn to play.
I have never had a student choose to flip the ukulele, but I have had students choose to play left handed, and I have students that start left handed and switch after a few days to right handed, and those that stay left handed. I don’t have to recreate materials for them—they simply adapt. And as a left handed player, they’re used to adapting.
One thing I will say is that the argument (which I used to use) that left handed players have an advantage needs to stop—if that was true, then all right handed players should be playing a left handed ukulele.
Yes, if a person learns left handed, they will face some challenges:
That said, I have found that left handed players who play left handed “get it” and require very little additional support as you teach a class.
And please note, I’m not saying that a left handed player cannot play right handed, or that you should force a left handed player to play left handed. I am saying that you should let the player/student/parents make that choice.
I also wanted to share the link to my friend Paul Marchese’s website, where he also talks about this topic: http://www.ukuleleforteachers.com/blog/lefty-vs-righty-pull-out-the-soapboxrant-ahead
In this episode of the UkeStuff Podcast, host Chris Russell visits with one of the main catalysts for the current “Third Wave” of the ukulele, Jim Beloff. Jim has created 36 music books, three other books on ukulele, twelve audio recordings, five DVDs, two classical works for ukulele, one of the oldest and most respected ukulele websites (Flea Market Music), and has worked closely with his sister and brother-in-law to create a ukulele company (Magic Fluke).
He just released his memoir, UKEtopia! Adventures in the Ukulele World. To purchase (this is a referral link), go to https://amzn.to/30TjU9w
Jim also has provided a Spotify list of the music mentioned in the book, and the list can be accessed at: https://open.spotify.com/user/jimbeloff/playlist/7ocCb5fPfhwtzmievmR6VV?si=86a64e9e3c7443aa
You are invited to visit my ukulele blog/website, ukestuff.info (a free resource). Also on social media: Twitter (@UkeStuff), Instagram (@ukestuff.info), and TikTok (@ukestuff.info)
Want to make a donation towards this work? Visit https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ukestuff
Interested in my suggested ukulele items on the UkeStuff Amazon storefront (affiliate link)? https://www.amazon.com/shop/ukeplayalongs
Check out the “merch”: https://teespring.com/stores/ukestuff
Are you a teacher using ukulele in the classroom? Check out my video based method…effective, easy, and inexpensive! https://ukestuff.wordpress.com/the-video-ukulele-method/
Looking for a FREE beginner method for the ukulele? Check out GCEA U or DGBE U at www.ukestuff.info
Thank you for supporting this work! Your support makes it possible to produce this content.
In this episode of the UkeStuff Podcast, host Chris Russell visits with one of the main catalysts for the current “Third Wave” of the ukulele, Jim Beloff. Jim has created 36 music books, three other books on ukulele, twelve audio recordings, five DVDs, two classical works for ukulele, one of the oldest and most respected ukulele websites (Flea Market Music), and has worked closely with his sister and brother-in-law to create a ukulele company (Magic Fluke).
He just released his memoir, UKEtopia! Adventures in the Ukulele World. To purchase (this is a referral link), go to https://amzn.to/30TjU9w
Jim also has provided a Spotify list of the music mentioned in the book, and the list can be accessed at: https://open.spotify.com/user/jimbeloff/playlist/7ocCb5fPfhwtzmievmR6VV?si=86a64e9e3c7443aa
You are invited to visit my ukulele blog/website, ukestuff.info (a free resource). Also on social media: Twitter (@UkeStuff), Instagram (@ukestuff.info), and TikTok (@ukestuff.info)
Want to make a donation towards this work? Visit https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ukestuff
Interested in my suggested ukulele items on the UkeStuff Amazon storefront (affiliate link)? https://www.amazon.com/shop/ukeplayalongs
Check out the “merch”: https://teespring.com/stores/ukestuff
Are you a teacher using ukulele in the classroom? Check out my video based method…effective, easy, and inexpensive! https://ukestuff.wordpress.com/the-video-ukulele-method/
Looking for a FREE beginner method for the ukulele? Check out GCEA U or DGBE U at www.ukestuff.info
Thank you for supporting this work! Your support makes it possible to produce this content.
In this episode of the UkeStuff Podcast, host Chris Russell visits with ukulele teacher and player Uncle Rod Higuchi. Rod was originally from Hawaii before coming to the mainland United States for college and then a career as a pastor, in the Christian Book industry, and as a school administrative assistant. In the world of ukulele, Rod is best known for his ‘Ukulele Boot Camp, and is active in ukulele groups in the Seattle area. In this first part of the interview, we learn about Rod’s life and journey with the ukulele. Part 1 of this interview is also available, covering the history of Rod’s journey with the ukulele.
Uncle Rod’s Ukulele Bootcamp: http://ukulelebootcamp.weebly.com
Nick Manoloff’s Complete Chord and Harmony Manual (no link)
Tonette: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tonette
Gordon Mark Gives a Two Minute Ukulele Lesson: https://youtu.be/miNX6CCQV6g
Tiny Tim “Tiptoe Through the Tulips” https://youtu.be/zcSlcNfThUA
In this episode of the UkeStuff Podcast, host Chris Russell visits with ukulele teacher and player Uncle Rod Higuchi. Rod was originally from Hawaii before coming to the mainland United States for college and then a career as a pastor, in the Christian Book industry, and as a school administrative assistant. In the world of ukulele, Rod is best known for his ‘Ukulele Boot Camp, and is active in ukulele groups in the Seattle area. In this first part of the interview, we learn about Rod’s life and journey with the ukulele. Part 2 will discuss Rod’s teaching and his website.
Uncle Rod’s Ukulele Bootcamp: http://ukulelebootcamp.weebly.com
Nick Manoloff’s Complete Chord and Harmony Manual (no link)
Tonette: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tonette
Gordon Mark Gives a Two Minute Ukulele Lesson: https://youtu.be/miNX6CCQV6g
Tiny Tim “Tiptoe Through the Tulips” https://youtu.be/zcSlcNfThUA
In this episode of the UkeStuff Podcast, Chris Russell visits with Spencer Gay, creator of the resources at ukeeducation.org.
The episode discusses Spencer’s journey to the ukulele, his experience with the James Hill Ukulele Initiative, his ukulele brand (Barefoot Ukuleles), how he came to create his resources, and a tour of his website and all the resources that are available.
Links from the episode:
The UkeStuff podcast is hosted by Chris Russell, a music educator based in the Twin Cities (Minnesota, USA). In addition to occasionally recording podcasts, Chris publishes ukestuff.info, youtube.com/ukestuff, and youtube.com/ukeplayalongs. You can sponsor this work by buying a coffee or two at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ukestuff.
In this episode, Chris Russell (host) interviews Matt Cantlon from Aloha City Ukes, a ukulele specialist store located in the Chicago Area.
You can find Aloha City Ukes at: http://www.alohacityukes.com
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You are invited to visit the UkeStuff blog/website, ukestuff.info (a free resource). You can also find UkeStuff on social media: Twitter (@UkeStuff), Instagram (@ukestuff.info), and TikTok (@ukestuff.info)
Want to make a donation towards this work? Visit https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ukestuff
Interested in my suggested ukulele items on the UkeStuff Amazon storefront (affiliate link)? https://www.amazon.com/shop/ukeplayalongs
Check out the “merch”: https://teespring.com/stores/ukestuff
Are you a teacher using ukulele in the classroom? Check out my video based method…effective, easy, and inexpensive! https://ukestuff.wordpress.com/the-video-ukulele-method/
Looking for a FREE beginner method for the ukulele? Check out GCEA U or DGBE U at www.ukestuff.info
Do you have a request for a song to be made into a play along video? Try the new “upvote” method of referral using Tricider! http://www.tricider.com/brainstorming/2T8hS5LclQV
Thanks for watching the videos and supporting the channel! Your support of these videos and subscription to the channel makes it possible to produce this content.
https://archive.org/download/UVPP001Intro/UkeStuff%20Podcast%20Episode%200028.m4a
In edition of the UkeStuff Podcast, host Chris Russell discusses a wide range of topics while stringing up a 3D Printed Ukulele for the first time.
The index of topics is:
00:00 Introduction
00:45 3D printed travel ukuleles
04:39 Flight TUSL-KIDZ Ukulele
08:00 Oasis strings
08:47 Some favorite ukulele tools
09:26 Channel updates
10:27 Beads for ukulele strings
10:52 Back to channel updates
14:58 Channel Recommendations
23:58 The ukulele plays for the first time
26:05 Thanks for watching!
In the podcast, Dr. Russell mentions a number of channel recommendations (12!), listed below:
Circuits and Strings: https://www.youtube.com/user/CircuitsAndStrings
Steve’s Strings: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtcxcVx-ZuHvO3RBYdBubTw
Fun Ukulele Projects: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2UwTKhjlcWWgMVrbPkOkdA
Southern Ukulele Store: https://www.youtube.com/user/SouthernUkuleleStore
Ukes with Alex: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmhxDlQD6QfoxbKutkGLFQg
Got a Ukulele: https://www.youtube.com/user/GotAUkulele
Girl Meets Uke: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC676skINylbbiIwKsOiXauw
The Ukulele Fool: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnILEKaqC7Plp33DZUZ8Mkg
Rich Davis: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnYKckJgYVGbDhTJ7e810LQ
One Music School (Katie DeNure): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXGiCLn-Xh9VwDT8h06rOIA
Bernadette Teaches Music: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHF88ovEEPETzNtEUbgGBuw
Pismo Ukulele: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1xrYJyJOfgtNJ5yQn_mqwA
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Video created on the iPad Pro using Luma Fusion.
Motion video background from https://www.motionbolt.com
You are invited to visit my ukulele blog/website, ukestuff.info (a free resource).
Also on social media: Twitter (@UkeStuff), Instagram (@ukestuff.info), and TikTok (@ukestuff.info)
Want to make a donation towards this work? Visit https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ukestuff
Interested in my suggested ukulele items on the UkeStuff Amazon storefront (affiliate link)? https://www.amazon.com/shop/ukeplayalongs
Check out the “merch”: https://teespring.com/stores/ukestuff
Are you a teacher using ukulele in the classroom? Check out my video based method…effective, easy, and inexpensive! https://ukestuff.wordpress.com/the-video-ukulele-method/
Looking for a FREE beginner method for the ukulele? Check out GCEA U or DGBE U at http://www.ukestuff.info
Do you have a request for a song to be made into a play along video? Try the new “upvote” method of referral using Tricider! http://www.tricider.com/brainstorming/2T8hS5LclQV
Thanks for watching the videos and supporting the channel! Your support of these videos and subscription to the channel makes it possible to produce this content.
After 11 months, 1000 subscribers, and 4000 total view hours, my ukulele channel was finally able to be monetized. This is a summary of how things went that first month–which gives you a great perspective on how hard it would be to make a living on YouTube. This is a hobby for me, so I’m thrilled to be earning something for the work. I also talk about some upcoming plans for the channel, and remind people that they can always use Buy Me a Coffee to thank me for my work.
You can see the video of this podcast at YouTube.com/ukestuff
https://archive.org/download/UVPP001Intro/UkeStuff%20Podcast%20Episode%200026.m4a
In this episode of the UkeStuff Podcast, Chris Russell (host) visits with five of the creators of ukulele play along videos: Kris Gilbert, Andy Ramos, Daniel Simmons, Wesley Stevenson, and Rachel Webley.
Daniel Simmons: youtube.com/danielsimmons
Andy Ramos: youtube.com/andyramos
Rachel Webley: youtube.com/ukulaliensukuleleclub, youtube.com/ukulelewales http://ukulele.wales
Wesley Stevenson: Music with Moustro (youtube.com/wesleylamont)
Kris Gilbert: YouTube Kris the Uke Chick Gilbert
Daniel Simmons: COVID-19 Projects:
Video Creation Tools
The Favorite Play Along Video Each Person Has Created:
Advice for People Who Use Your Videos
What Are Some Pet-Peeves of Making Videos, Comments, Etc.
Song suggestions: http://www.tricider.com/brainstorming/2T8hS5LclQV
The Top 10 Ukulele Play Along Videos (as of May 2020)
Advice for People Who Want to Make Videos
In this episode of the UkeStuff Podcast, Chris Russell (host) discusses a number of things including why it has been a while since a podcast was published, different ways to market a channel or website with apparel and accessories, and what some of his “dream” ukuleles are. The ukuleles used in the podcast episode are the Enya Nova Concert Ukulele and the Flight Concert Ukulele, and the song is “Edelweiss” from the Sound of Music.
Video created on the iPad Pro using Luma Fusion. Motion video background from https://www.motionbolt.com
Check out the UkeStuff Podcast, where I talk about ukulele education and my own ukulele experiences. Available on Radio Public, Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, and Stitcher.
You are invited to visit my ukulele blog/website, ukestuff.info (a free resource).
Also on social media: Twitter (@UkeStuff) and Instagram (@ukestuff.info).
Want to make a donation towards this work? Visit https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ukestuff
Are you a teacher using ukulele in the classroom? Check out my video based method…effective, easy, and inexpensive! https://ukestuff.wordpress.com/the-video-ukulele-method/
Check out the “merch”: https://teespring.com/stores/ukestuff Thanks for watching the videos and supporting the channel! Your support of these videos and subscription to the channel makes it possible to produce this content.
Episode 23 of the UkeStuff Podcast
In this podcast (video and audio available) I discuss the ukulele-related items that I received this Christmas.
Video created (and audio exported) on the iPad Pro using Luma Fusion. Motion video background from https://www.motionbolt.com
Check out the UkeStuff Podcast, where I talk about ukulele education and my own ukulele experiences. Available on Radio Public, Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, and Stitcher. If you don’t have a podcast app, please check out Radio Public for all your podcasts–they support podcasters financially.
You are invited to visit my ukulele blog/website, ukestuff.info (a free resource). Also on social media: Twitter (@UkeStuff) and Instagram (@ukestuff.info).
Want to make a donation towards this work? Visit https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ukestuff
Are you a teacher using ukulele in the classroom? Check out my video based method…effective, easy, and inexpensive! https://ukestuff.wordpress.com/the-video-ukulele-method/
Check out the “merch”: https://teespring.com/stores/ukestuff
Thanks for watching the videos and supporting the channel! Your support of these videos and subscription to the channel makes it possible to produce this content.
The UkeStuff Podcast, Episode 21!
After the 2019 Wisconsin Music Education Conference – November 2019
Welcome to the 22nd Episode of the UkeStuff Podcast!
Links:
Peripole: http://www.peripole.com
Luna Guitars (and Ukuleles): lunaguitars.com
Enya: enya-music.com
Jowoom Smart Tuner: http://www.jowoom.com
Ukefarm Fonts: http://www.ukefarm.com
Baritone Resources:
-baritoneukulele.net
-pdfminstrel.wordpress.com
-ukeeducation.org
-humblebaritonics.blogspot.com
Channel Shout-Outs
Circuits and Strings: https://www.youtube.com/user/CircuitsAndStrings
Steve’s Strings: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtcxcVx-ZuHvO3RBYdBubTw
Ukulele Wales: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQxNRbyi3i4Nvqpo55bWBkg
Rich Davis: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnYKckJgYVGbDhTJ7e810LQ
Outdoor Ukulele: https://www.outdoorukulele.com
Video created on the iPad Pro using Luma Fusion.
Check out the UkeStuff Podcast, where I talk about ukulele education and my own ukulele experiences. Available on Radio Public, Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, and Stitcher. If you don’t have a podcast app, please check out Radio Public for all your podcasts–they support podcasters financially.
You are invited to visit my ukulele blog/website, ukestuff.info (a free resource). Also on social media: Twitter (@UkeStuff) and Instagram (@ukestuff.info)
Check out the “merch”: https://teespring.com/stores/ukestuff
Thanks for watching the videos and supporting the channel! Your support of these videos and subscription to the channel makes it possible to produce this content.
The UkeStuff Podcast, Episode 21!
In this episode of the UkeStuff Podcast, host Chris Russell, a music educator who has integrated ukulele into his teaching, discusses a number of topics–basically an opportunity to catch up on a number of things that have occurred since the last episode of the podcast in July!
The topics include the purpose of the podcast (versus posting a normal video), changes in his own career, approaches for ukulele with younger students, the Los Angeles International Ukulele Festival, recent ukulele play alongs at YouTube.com/ukeplayalongs, recent material at YouTube.com/ukestuff, and future podcasts.
This podcast is available on Radio Public, Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, and Stitcher. If you don’t have a podcast app, please check out Radio Public for all your podcasts–they support podcasters financially.
You are invited to visit UkeStuff.info, a free ukulele blog/website/resource.
Check out the UkeStuff “merch”: https://teespring.com/stores/ukestuff
Thanks for watching the videos and supporting the channel! Your support makes it possible to produce this content.
Available on Radio Public, Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, and Stitcher. If you don’t have a podcast app, please check out Radio Public for all your podcasts–they support podcasters financially.
You are invited to visit my ukulele blog/website, ukestuff.info (a free resource).
Check out the “merch”: https://teespring.com/stores/ukestuff
UkeStuff Podcast Episode 20!
In this episode of the UkeStuff Podcast, Chris talks about his ukulele observations from Summer NAMM 2019. The video podcast on YouTube includes some additional pictures of some of the things that he saw.
Check out the UkeStuff Podcast which discusses ukulele in education and more. Available on Radio Public, Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, and Stitcher.
And don’t forget to visit my ukulele blog/website, ukestuff.info (free).
Ukestuff Podcast Episode 19!
In this episode of the UkeStuff Podcast, Chris visits with the Ukulele Sisters, authors of the 21 Ukulele Song Series and the Ukulele for All method book.
The Ukulele Sisters have provided a special page where you can download 10 free songs in the Key of F by going to: http://www.ukulele.io/podcast
Mentioned in the podcast: https://youtu.be/b9PqZr6BaI8
Check out the UkeStuff Podcast which discusses ukulele in education and more. Available on Radio Public, Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, and Stitcher.
And don’t forget to visit my ukulele blog/website, ukestuff.info (free).
Episode 18 of the newly renamed UkeStuff Podcast!
In this episode of the UkeStuff Podcast, host Christopher J. Russell, Ph.D. discusses the new name change to the podcast, talks about several new products that he will be reviewing soon, discusses the completed transfer of videos from his old YouTube site to two different channels, the creation of the UkeGuide, and more.
Show links:
Ukulele Video Play Along Podcast Episode 17!
In this episode of the Ukulele Video Play Along Podcast, Chris Russell talks about some of the recent changes in his life (ukulele related) as well as changes to the video play alongs–some in reaction to the recent discussions he had on the podcast with Dr. Jill Reese and Rachel Webley.
Ukulele Video Play Along Podcast Episode 16!
In this episode of the Ukulele Video Podcast, Chris Russell visits with Rachel Webley, a content creator in Wales, U.K. Rachel makes the Ukulaliens videos, originally as a part of providing content for a club at Cwmtawe Comprehensive School.
Rachel has integrated music, graphic design, and the use of the Windows environment to create great looking, entertaining play along videos.
The video was recorded using YouTube’s Google Hangout features, and the video feed stops occasionally (audio continues), and there are moments of audio “garble” as well, but the discussion is still worth sharing.
The Ukulele Video Play Along Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, Stitcher, and YouTube.
Are these resources valuable to you? If so, consider following my blog at ukestuff.info, and becoming a patron at http://www.patreon.com/cjrphd. Patreon rewards include access to my “method” of the video play alongs (to be used in a classroom) as well as some other resources, and starting in 2019, a chord sheet of every song posted as a play along.
Thanks for watching the videos and supporting the channel!
Ukulele Video Play Along Podcast Episode 15!
In this episode of the Ukulele Video Play Along Podcast, Chris visits with Dr. Jill Reese, professor at SUNY Fredonia, and creator of the Ukulele Video Play Along genre. Dr. Reese also runs the Fredonia Ukulele Club (https://sites.google.com/a/fredonia.edu/fredonia-ukulele/) and her videos can be found on YouTube at www.youtube.com/drjillreese
The Ukulele Video Play Along Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, and Stitcher.
Are these ukulele resources valuable to you? If so, consider following my blog at ukestuff.info, and becoming a patron at http://www.patreon.com/cjrphd. Patreon rewards include access to my “method” of the video play alongs (to be used in a classroom) as well as some other resources, and starting in 2019, a chord sheet of every song posted as a play along.
Thanks for watching the videos and supporting the channel!
Audio link: https://archive.org/download/UVPP001Intro/Ukulele%20Video%20Play%20Along%20Podcast%20Episode%200015.m4a
Ukulele Video Play Along Podcast Episode 14!
In this episode of the Ukulele Video Play Along Podcast, Chris visits with Andy Ramos at the end of the day on Friday of the TMEA convention–in very poor lighting conditions. Andy and Chris share a lot of video techniques in common, so this podcast talks about the things they do differently.
Andy is a middle school music teacher who currently has over 170 videos on YouTube, and is the co-administrator of the Ukulele Video Play Along Group on Facebook.
You can find Andy’s YouTube play along files at: http://www.youtube.com/andyramos
Audio Link: https://archive.org/download/UVPP001Intro/Ukulele%20Video%20Play%20Along%20Podcast%20Episode%200014.m4a
Ukulele Video Play Along Podcast Episode 13!
In this episode of the Ukulele Video Play Along Podcast, Chris Russell talks with Kris Gilbert, another music educator and creator of play along videos. Kris follows the approach of Little Kids Rock, and talks about how her program, how she creates play along videos, and other pedagogical tips. The podcast was recorded at the TMEA (Texas) conference in a room between two other rooms where there were other sessions being held, resulting in a noisy background.
You can find Kris’ videos by searching “Kris Gilbert Ukulele” on YouTube, or by visiting https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJBIG-T6Vo6XZysntEWawOQ/
You can also find Kris Gilbert’s blog at: krisgilbertmusic.weebly.com
Little Kids Rock Website: http://www.littlekidsrock.org/
Available on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, and Stitcher. Audio files hosted free at archive.org.
Ukulele Video Play Along Podcast Episode 12!
2018 in review and plans for 2019.
Ukulele: Bonanza Tenor Ameoba (Aspen/Black Walnut)
Strap: Ukuleles from UkeStraps (Facebook)
Tuner: Jowoom T2 Smart Tuner
Song: Always Keep A Ukulele In Your Trunk (Casper Babypants)
Have a great 2019!
Audio Link: https://archive.org/download/UVPP001Intro/UkuleleVideoPlayAlongPodcastEpisode0012.m4a
Want to watch instead?
Ukulele Video Play Along Podcast Episode 11!
This is the first annual holiday gift guide!
Special guest: Luke Russell
Music: The Chorus of Jingle Bells (J. Pierpont)
Ukulele: KoAloha Concert Ukulele (2004)
See the video of the Podcast at: https://youtu.be/tFj12JvH-e8
See the full post of the links at the UkeStuff blog: https://ukestuff.wordpress.com/2018/12/03/holiday-shopping-ideas-2018-ukulele-video-play-along-podcast-episode-11/
Listen to the audio! https://archive.org/download/UVPP001Intro/UkuleleVideoPlayAlongPodcastEpisode0011.m4a
Ukulele Video Play Along Podcast Episode 10!
In this episode of the Ukulele Video Play Along Podcast, Chris opens the podcast with “You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch” and then discusses the latest Holiday Ukulele Play Alongs available for GCEA and DGBE ukuleles. Featured in this video is the Flight TUS35LB ukulele, which was recently on sale from Amazon for $24.
A very Merry Christmas to everyone that celebrates Christmas, and a very Happy Holiday Season to everyone!
Ukulele Video Play Along Podcast Episode 9!
In this episode of the podcast, Chris discusses the positives and negatives of the Outdoor Ukulele as a school instrument. His program recently bought 71 Outdoor Ukuleles, so you know that he is favorable towards the instrument–but he attempts to keep an open mind about it as well.
One thing forgotten in the post is the fact that you can clean an Outdoor Ukulele, if needed (e.g. flu season) with wipes.
Chris also discusses his recent $20 Craigslist discoveries.
Audio link:https://archive.org/download/UVPP001Intro/Uvpp009.m4a
Ukulele Video Play Along Podcast Episode 8!
In this podcast, Dr. Russell discusses (and plays) his new Ohana CK-70-8 ukulele, talks about his process of starting to make play along videos for baritone ukulele (Eight songs available as of 7/24/18), his trip to Memphis last week to visit the Memphis Ukulele Flash Mob and Petey Mack, his “new” 2008 first generation KoAlana mahogany soprano, and a couple of upcoming projects including the Homemade Ukulele Humidifier and the Video Ukulele Method (both coming soon).
If you want to watch the podcast, visit:
Some links from the podcast:
twoharborsukulelegroup.com (Silver Creek International Ukulele Carnival in August…Free!)
Link to audio: https://ia902801.us.archive.org/18/items/UVPP001Intro/Uvpp0008.m4a
Ukulele Video Play Along Podcast Episode 7!
In this episode of the Ukulele Video Play Along Podcast, Chris Russell begins the episode by playing his Martin S1 and singing “You’ve Got a Friend In Me.” Topics in this episode include upgrading tuners (Gotoh UPT), his inexpensive Sawtooth Pineapple Ukulele from walmart.com and more.
You can find Chris’ work at:
And if you would like to sponsor these efforts, consider becoming a patron at http://www.patreon.com/cjrphd
Link to audio: https://archive.org/download/UVPP001Intro/Uvpp0007.m4a
Ukulele Video Play Along Podcast Episode 6!
In this episode of the Ukulele Video Play Along Podcast, Chris Russell (host) plays his Enya EUR-X1 “camp” ukulele for an intro, and then talks about new Play Along videos made by educators throughout the world, including Andy Ramos, Kevin Way, Ukulaliens, and the originator of the format, Dr. Jill Reese.
Chris also discusses his recent play along practice tracks for his choir, what he does with his choir embedding ukulele into the curriculum, and a few other topics around the way.
See Chris’ play along videos on YouTube at http://www.youtube.com/ukuleletenor, see Chris’ website at http://www.ukestuff.info, and consider sponsoring the work for $1 or $2 per month at http://www.patreon.com/cjrphd
Audio Recording: https://ia601502.us.archive.org/5/items/UVPP001Intro/Uvpp0006.m4a
Ukulele Video Play Along Podcast Episode 5!
Recorded April 4, 2018
In this episode of the Ukulele Video Play Along Podcast, Chris Russell plays his only baritone ukulele, a Lanikai LU21-B that was a “Gambler’s Special” from eBay. Some new strings (all four unwound fluorocarbon strings from Living Waters), some sanding of some frets, some sanding of the nut slots, and a new saddle later, the instrument is low-cost player. Chris plays Mike Lynch’s Chord Melody of “Puff the Magic Dragon” as the intro to the podcast–mistakes included. Chris also tried out his brand new Shure MV-88 microphone (eBay as well), and discusses recent Play Along videos by Andy Ramos and himself. Look for Chris’ version of Lava, which he recorded recently…it keeps a steady tempo, is in a lower key, and is shorter than the original. Chris has been fighting vocal health since experiencing a nasty cold in November–but he recorded the song anyway (on a Blue Snowball USB microphone). Chris also discusses the challenge of pop tenors and vocal range–and dares to wade into the water of ukulele instruction, preferring to teach chords before trying to teach individual notes (the approach of several major ukulele methods). He also discusses some of the other videos he has made recently including C, F, G, G7, and Am chords, as well as a new series focusing on single chords played up and down the neck of the ukulele. We hope you enjoy the podcast! Feel free to visit Chris’ ukulele blog at http://www.ukestuff.info, to visit his play along videos at http://www.youtube.com/ukuleletenor, and to sponsor him ($1 per month would be greatly appreciated) at http://www.patreon.com/cjrphd
Listen to the podcast: https://ia601502.us.archive.org/5/items/UVPP001Intro/Uvpp0005.m4a
Ukulele Video Play Along Podcast Episode 4!
In this Podcast, Chris Russell plays his Tenor Outdoor Ukulele, recently restrung with the new Aquila Sugar strings. Other topics of discussion include recent additions to the Ukulele Video Play Along library, including many recent videos by Andy Ramos, and a few new videos by Kevin Way. Chris has been busy with a musical production and teacher conferences, and hasn’t had much time to work on videos, but just released the video for Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious, a request on the Facebook “Uke Can Do It” group, as created by Philip Tamberino. Chris also discusses left handed ukuleles for students, as well as an unexpected turn to discuss the importance of nut height when it comes to string intonation. You can find more of Dr. Russell’s work at http://ukestuff.info, http://techinmusiced.com, and you can sponsor his work at http://www.patreon.com/cjrphd
Link to audio: https://ia601502.us.archive.org/5/items/UVPP001Intro/Uvpp004.m4a
Ukulele Video Play Along Podcast Episode 3!
In this episode, Chris Russell plays the Populele, and discusses his most recent videos, including a potential full series on how to play specific chords to be used in larger presentations. He also mentions Ukulele Abe’s interview with Jim Beloff and talks about “dislikes” on YouTube.
You can find his resources at ukestuff.info, techinmusiced.com, and youtube.com/ukuleletenor
Link to audio: https://ia601502.us.archive.org/5/items/UVPP001Intro/Uvpp003Edit.m4a
Ukulele Video Play Along Podcast Episode 2!
In this episode of the Ukulele Video Play Along Podcast, Chris discusses the positives and negatives of the Outdoor Ukulele as a school instrument. In the discussion he does not mention that they can also be cleaned (e.g. flu season). He also updates his recent purchase of $20 Craigslist Ukuleles.
Check out the Ukulele Video Play Along Podcast, where I talk about ukulele education and my own ukulele experiences. Available on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, and Stitcher.
And please visit my ukulele blog/website, ukestuff.info (free).
Thanks for watching the videos and supporting the channel! Your support of these videos and subscription to the channel makes it possible to produce this content.
Link to audio: https://ia601502.us.archive.org/5/items/UVPP001Intro/Uvpp002HowToUseVideos.m4a
Ukulele Video Play Along Podcast Episode 1!
In this first episode of the Ukulele Video Play Along Podcast, Chris discusses why he has adopted ukuleles in his teaching position, how he found Ukulele Video Play Alongs, and his process of creating those play along videos.
Link to audio: https://ia801502.us.archive.org/5/items/UVPP001Intro/UVPP001%20Intro.m4a
UkeStuff Podcast 