FAQS
All you need to know for the Online Beginners Ukulele Course
What will I need to take part in the course?
To take part in this course, you will the following:
-A ukulele
-A tuner or tuning app on your phone.
-Access to a printer if possible (to print out the handouts)
-Access to a computer or tablet with a built-in microphone and camera or webcam
-A stable internet connection
-A well-lit room in a quiet spot without distractions
-Time for at least 10 minutes ukulele practise, 5 times a week
-A spare set of strings is advised in case you break one
-You may also like to get a folder to keep all your handouts in an organised fashion!
How much of a beginner do I need to be?
The course is designed for beginners with little or no experience. We will be covering the basics like how to correctly hold your ukulele, how to strum and how to play basic chords. We will also cover how to read strumming patterns and chord boxes. If you already know a few chords and strums, that’s great! It may just be the case that you will be a few steps ahead of the game for the first lesson or two. So long as you are happy to follow along and be patient, allowing others to catch up then you are still welcome to join!
Can I still play the ukulele if I’m left-handed?
You certainly can! There are a few options for how to play if you are left-handed. Please get in touch before the course starts to discuss your options.
Which ukulele should I buy?
What type of tuner should I use?
See the link above or scroll down to the end of the document for information on tuners.
How many people will there be on the course?
There will be up to a total of 6 students on the course.
Will I receive any 1-to-1 time with the tutor?
The content in each lesson will be broken down into sections. At intervals, between sections the teacher will take a few minutes to check in with each student to assess that learning is taking place, that the ukulele is being played correctly and to offer support. Alongside these lessons, the teacher is offering course students private online 1-to-1 support at a special rate of £10 per half an hour.
What happens if I miss a lesson?
Handouts will be sent for each lesson via email, with links to Youtube videos for how to play new chords and strums so that in the event that you can’t make a lesson, it is advised that you study in your own time to catch up so that you are prepared for the following lesson. Recordings of new strums and songs will also be sent along with handouts, making it much easier for you to catch up. I am also offering course students private online 1-to-1 support at a special rate of £10 per half an hour. So if you do miss a lesson then this might be a good option for you.
What is the cancellation and refund policy?
Course cancellations will be dealt with on a case by case basis. If a refund is possible admin and late cancellation fees may apply. If it is not possible to offer you a refund, I do apologise and hope that you sympathise with the limited time available to fill your slot and the time it takes to organise this.
Can I use my phone or a tablet for the lessons?
A laptop, macbook or computer are recommended for the course
(the bigger screens make learning easier). If you don't have a laptop, macbook or computer available then you can still take part using a smart phone or tablet - it just may not be as easy to see the teacher.
Will headphones help?
Headphones are a great idea if you wish to use them. They may help to keep you focused and less distracted. They are definitely advised if you find yourself in a noisy or busy environment during a lesson.
Will other students be able to hear me?
Students will be muted whilst I am playing in order to eliminate background noise.
You will receive 1-to-1 support during each lesson, which will take place in a ‘breakout room’ (a smaller group) and it is possible that 1 or 2 of your course mates will be able to hear you during this time.
Will I be able to hear other students playing?
Students will be muted whilst I am teaching. However, there will be 1-to-1 support offered at intervals and during this time it is likely that you will be split into smaller groups, where you will be able to hear other students being assessed and during your 1-to-1 time, they will be able to hear you.
How much additional time do I need to dedicate to my ukulele practise?
At least 10 minutes practise 5 days a week is advised but the more you put in, the more you get out! You’ll be surprised how much your muscle memory kicks in. And it is more important to have a daily practise instead of just one long session once a week.
Has the teacher (Kitty) already got experience of running a ukulele course?
Yes I have! I have run a mixture of group and 1-to-1 beginner ukulele courses in person and online to a variety of ages and all have been very successful. Check out the reviews on the page for insight on this.
What if I don’t have access to a printer?
Access to a printer will make your learning much easier during the course. Handouts will be sent out for each lesson, including song sheets and you may want to make notes on some of these. If you do not have access to a printer it is possible to use a tablet or another device to access handouts during the lesson, however, it may not be as easy to make notes.
Will I have the opportunity to make friends with my course mates?
You will have the opportunity to join a Whatsapp group with your course mates so that you can help support each other and communicate outside of the lessons.
During each lesson there will be limited time for you to chat to each other, however, there may be some time at the beginning and end of each lesson and during the intervals to chat to other course mates.
How can I book onto the course?
Email musicalembers@gmail.com to book.
Places are limited so don’t wait too long!
If your question wasn’t answered, please email musicalembers@gmail.com and I will aim to get back to you within 3 working days.