My First Ukulele

Welcome to our Ukulele Chord Library!

Ukulele Chord Library

Select a ukulele chord to view from the dropdown menu below...

Note: We are constantly updating this page, so if you don’t see the chord you want, let us know via our contact us page and we will add it in. 

How to Read Ukulele Chord Diagrams

Understanding chord diagrams is essential for learning new chords. Here’s a quick guide:

  • Strings: The vertical lines represent the ukulele strings, from left to right: G (4th string), C (3rd), E (2nd), and A (1st).

  • Frets: The horizontal lines indicate the frets. The top line represents the nut (the top of the fretboard), and the lines below represent the subsequent frets. Sometimes numbers are used to indicate the starting fret if not the nut.

  • Dots: Colored dots show where to place your fingers. Blue bars indicate you use one finger to play multiple strings (barre).

  • Numbers: Sometimes, numbers are placed on the dots to indicate which finger to use: 1 (index), 2 (middle), 3 (ring), 4 (pinky).

  • Open Strings: An “O” above a string means you play it open (don’t press any fret).

  • Muted Strings: An “X” above a string means you don’t play that string.

How to read a chord diagram on ukulele

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Ukulele Chord FAQs

What is a ukulele chord?

A ukulele chord is just a group of notes played at the same time to create a certain sound. You make chords by pressing your fingers on specific frets while strumming the strings.

As many as you can! But really, you only need a small handful to start playing real songs. We recommend starting with C, G, F, and Am. With those four, you can play dozens of tunes—and build confidence as you go.

Some chords have different shapes called “voicings”—they sound a little different, but they’re still the same chord. All chords can be played at multiple positions along the fretboard. We focus on beginner-friendly versions first, then you can explore alternate shapes as you gain confidence.

Not quite! Baritone ukuleles are tuned differently, so the same chord shape will produce a different sound. We’ll be looking to expand this library to include baritone chords as well – so watch this space!

It’s a common question! Some of the finger shapes might feel familiar if you’ve played guitar, but because ukuleles are tuned differently, the names and sounds won’t always match up. It’s best to use ukulele-specific chord charts (like the ones we’ve got here).

Barre chords are when one finger (usually your index) presses down multiple strings at once. They can feel a bit awkward at first, but with practice, they become super useful—especially when you want to move up the neck. We’ve got tutorials to help when you’re ready for them.

Each string should ring out clearly when you strum. If something sounds off or muted, or if there’s any buzzing, check your fingers—make sure they’re not accidentally touching another string, and that you’re pressing close to the fret. 

Nope! Just focus on learning the ones that come up most in songs you like. Over time, you’ll start to recognize and remember more. It’s not a test—it’s a journey.

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