Andy Eastwood is a world-renowned entertainer and ukulele player. He read music at Oxford University where he graduated
as their first musician ever to give a degree recital on the ukulele. Andy is a multi-instrumentalist who has performed
all around the world, including appearances on BBC television. As part of his quest to demonstrate the ukulele’s worth as
a ‘serious’ instrument Andy has released many CDs and DVDs including a suite of classical pieces arranged as challenging
instrumental solos.
Octopus are delighted to be working in partnership with Andy on an ever-expanding series of videos, which we like to call
the Octopus Ukulele Academy
Ukulele basics
In his first series of tuition videos Andy gets you started by covering topics such as tuning your ukulele, how to develop
a good strumming technique, and understanding chord diagrams.
Video 5: Six essential chords to get you started
Accompanies chords printed on Octopus Rosette ukulele box
Guidance on good hand position
Moving efficiently from one chord to the next
Video 4: Introducing major chords
Introducing triads
Ear training
The 12 major chords
Video 3: How To read ukulele chord diagrams
Analysing chord construction
Understanding finger position
The importance of ear training
Video 2: Basic strumming
Six important things to consider when strumming
Bad habits to avoid
Wrist position and finger attack
Video 1: How to hold the ukulele
Correct left & right hand placement
Holding the instrument in different performance situations
Optimum strumming position
Skill builders
In our new Skill Builders series, Andy imparts his expertise in a series of structured lessons designed to hone your
ukulele playing. Whether you are new to the uke or a more experienced player, everyone can get involved as Andy guides
us step by step through each lesson, can you get to the end?
Video 1: Left hand workout
Common chords in the key of C
Moving between chord shapes
Timing and consistency
Video 2: Left hand workout
Common chords in the key of F
Moving between chord shapes
Timing and consistency
Ask Andy
Ask Andy is a series where you send in questions about all things ukulele,
and ukulele expert, Andy Eastwood, answers them!
Should children use ukulele picks?
Should I use a Hawaiian D7 chord?
How can I improve tricky chord placements in a fast song?
How can I take care of my ukulele?
Why do ukulele players use different tunings?
What's the difference between a soprano concert and tenor ukulele?
How to approach chords with lots of extensions?
How does material affect the sound of the ukulele?
How do I keep my practice effective?
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