Ukuleles come in various sizes, each offering unique characteristics that cater to different playing styles and preferences. While soprano, concert, tenor, and baritone ukuleles are all popular choices, beginners often find concert and tenor sizes to be the most accessible. These sizes strike a balance between compactness and playability, making them ideal for novice players looking to explore the world of ukulele music.
1. Physical Differences
Concert Ukulele
The concert ukulele sits between the smaller soprano and larger tenor sizes, making it a comfortable option for players who desire a bit more room to maneuver without sacrificing portability. With its scale length typically around 15 inches and a body size slightly larger than the soprano, the concert ukulele offers a balanced combination of playability and projection. Its fretboard usually accommodates around 15-20 frets, providing ample space for exploring melodies and chords across various musical genres.
Tenor Ukulele
Stepping up in size from the concert, the tenor ukulele offers a deeper and richer sound thanks to its longer scale length and larger body. With a scale length of around 17 inches and a slightly longer neck, the tenor ukulele provides even more space for fretting and fingerstyle playing. Typically featuring around 17-21 frets, the tenor ukulele extends the playable range, making it suitable for more advanced techniques and musical expressions.
2. Sound Comparison
Concert Ukulele
The concert ukulele is known for its bright and balanced tone, which lends itself well to strumming chords and playing melodies with clarity and definition. Its compact size and crisp sound make it a popular choice for beginners and seasoned players alike, especially in genres like folk, pop, and traditional Hawaiian music.
Tenor Ukulele
In contrast, the tenor ukulele produces a warmer and fuller sound, thanks to its larger body and longer scale length. This richness in tone makes the tenor ukulele well-suited for fingerstyle playing, solo performances, and ensemble settings where a deeper, more resonant sound is desired. Its extended range and versatility make it a favorite among ukulele enthusiasts looking to explore a wider range of musical styles and techniques.
3. Playability
Concert Ukulele
The concert ukulele typically offers slightly narrower fret spacing compared to the tenor, which may appeal to players with smaller hands or those transitioning from smaller ukulele sizes. This narrower spacing facilitates comfortable chord transitions and finger placements, making it easier for beginners to navigate the fretboard with confidence and precision.
Tenor Ukulele
On the other hand, the tenor ukulele’s wider fret spacing provides more room between the strings, which can be advantageous for players with larger hands or those seeking a more relaxed playing experience. This extra space allows for greater finger mobility and flexibility, making it easier to execute complex chord shapes and intricate fingerstyle patterns with ease.
4. Price Range
Concert Ukulele
In terms of affordability, concert ukuleles are generally more budget-friendly compared to tenors, making them an attractive option for beginners looking for a quality instrument without breaking the bank. Entry-level concert ukuleles can be found for as little as $50-$100, while higher-end models may range from $200-$500 depending on the brand and craftsmanship.
Tenor Ukulele
While slightly more expensive than concerts, tenor ukuleles offer excellent value for their enhanced sound quality and playability. Entry-level tenor ukuleles typically start around $100-$200, with premium models ranging from $300-$1000 or more for top-of-the-line instruments crafted from premium tonewoods and featuring advanced features such as built-in electronics and intricate inlay work.
5. Recommended Models
Concert Ukulele
Kala KA-C: The Kala KA-C is a highly regarded concert ukulele known for its excellent build quality, rich tone, and affordable price point. With a mahogany body and neck, along with a rosewood fingerboard, the KA-C delivers a warm and resonant sound ideal for strumming and fingerpicking alike.
Cordoba 15CM: Another popular choice among beginners, the Cordoba 15CM combines quality craftsmanship with affordability. Featuring a solid mahogany top and laminate mahogany back and sides, the 15CM produces a balanced and nuanced sound that’s perfect for players of all skill levels.
Tenor Ukulele
Kala KA-T: The Kala KA-T is a top-selling tenor ukulele renowned for its superb playability and rich, full-bodied tone. Constructed with a mahogany body and neck, along with a rosewood fingerboard, the KA-T offers a warm and resonant sound that’s perfect for solo performances and ensemble playing.
Enya EUT-X1: For those on a budget, the Enya EUT-X1 is an excellent choice for beginner tenor ukulele players. Featuring a solid spruce top and mahogany back and sides, the EUT-X1 delivers a bright and clear sound with plenty of volume and projection, making it an ideal instrument for players looking to explore a wide range of musical styles.
6. Pros and Cons
Concert Ukulele
Pros: Bright and balanced tone, comfortable fret spacing, affordable price range.
Cons: Limited bass response, smaller body size may feel cramped for some players.
Tenor Ukulele
Pros: Rich and full sound, wider fret spacing, extended range of playability.
Cons: Higher price range, larger size may be challenging for younger or smaller players.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the choice between a concert and tenor ukulele for beginners comes down to personal preference, playing style, and budget. Beginners seeking a versatile and affordable instrument with a bright and balanced tone may find the concert ukulele to be the ideal choice. However, those looking for a richer and fuller sound with wider fret spacing and extended playability may prefer the tenor ukulele. Regardless of your choice, investing in a quality instrument from a reputable brand will ensure years of enjoyment and musical growth as you embark on your ukulele journey.