The Modern Ukulele Method Online Instructor for Beginners and Advanced Students Page: 104

An Illustrated Uke tutorial with Songs, Sheet Music & Chords by May Singhi Breen
(the original Ukulele Lady).

	"THE UKULELE LADY" SPEAKS The Ukulele (pronounced OO-KOO-LAY-LAY), a typical Hawaiian instrument, is defined in the dictionary as a 'diminutive guitar'. It was first produced in Hawaii, sometime between 1877 and 1879, by a Portuguese cabinet maker, Michael Nunez, who patterned it after a small Portuguese guitar. It was so small, in comparison to the guitars the natives were used to playing that, when they first played it, their fingers and hands sort of 'skipped off' the small keyboard. That's why it is called 'Ukulele', meaning "jumping flea." Before Michael Nunez died in 1923, he did not realize that some day his little invention would become recognized as a real musical instrument. Its simplicity makes it easy for anyone to learn in a short time. However, we have gone much further with the study of the Ukulele in these United States and have discarded the idea that the Ukulele is just an accompaniment instrument. With study and practice you too will recognize it as a solo instrument. My slogan has always been "UKE CAN PLAY THE MELODY." Through the medium of radio, in 1923, its popularity reached such heights that it was necessary to print Ukulele arrangements on all popular sheet music. Unfortunately the market was flooded with cheap instruments which did not give forth the music intended. Good instruments have always been manufactured and those outstanding in the "Twenties" still lead in the field for quality. However, modern production methods and the use of plastics have brought fine instruments within the price range of every- one's purse. Nylon strings are also a boon to the Ukulele player. In 1950, through the medium of Television and the one and only Arthur Godfrey (seeing is believing), the Ukulele is now called "the family instrument of America." It should head the list of every recreational program in schools, camps and Girls' and Boys' Clubs in educational centers. Group playing leads to enjoyment for young and old. Form clubs — play in groups — and watch the progress. I wish I could tell you of the many lasting friendships that have resulted through the medium of the groups pictured on page 3 which I had the pleasure of forming and training. Any small child who has studied the most elementary music for the piano can pick out simple melodies in the treble clef on the Ukulele. The simple duets I have included at the end of this book have actually been performed by children of six or seven years old. They are arranged with diagrams here so all may enjoy them. This method has been prepared for self-study. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced student, a musician, or one who plays instinctively (by "ear"), you will find all you need within these pages. I hope you will derive as much pleasure out of this book as I did compiling it for you, and I wish to thank the publisher, Robbins Music Corporation, for granting me the permission to use the collection of world-wide hits contained herein. When you have learned all the chords, don't forget, "UKE CAN PLAY THE MELODY." Please let me know how you like it.