Ukulele Lessons

Begin your musical journey at Long & McQuade with private and online Ukulele Lessons for students of all ages and skill levels. Whether you are learning the Ukulele for the first time or you already have experience, our expert teachers will help you reach your goals in a professional, encouraging environment.

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Why Choose Long & McQuade for Ukulele Lessons?

Train with experienced Ukulele instructors who teach all ages and styles. Learn in comfortable studios equipped with on-site practice rooms. Enjoy flexible scheduling with daytime, evening, and weekend options that accommodate your schedule. As a trusted name in music education across Canada, Long & McQuade offers a reliable path to your goals.

Two sibling children on the couch playing ukulele together

What Ukulele Topics Will I Learn?

Playing an instrument like the Ukulele is a lifelong skill. The topics below outline what many students study, but your path will be uniquely personalized to your goals. Whether your goal is to play for personal enjoyment, perform on stage, or prepare for a professional path, our Ukulele lessons give you the foundation and guidance to grow as a musician.

Beginner & Intermediate Topics

  • Proper posture, hand positioning, and strumming technique
  • Producing a clean, steady sound with chords and single notes
  • Reading music, rhythm, and chord charts
  • Playing common chords, scales, and simple melodies
  • Developing strumming and fingerpicking patterns
  • Introduction to dynamics, phrasing, and expressive playing
  • Performing beginner songs in folk, pop, or contemporary styles
  • Playing along with recordings or in small group settings

Advanced & Professional Topics

  • Expanding chord vocabulary, fingerpicking, and technical fluency
  • Advanced scales, modes, and extended repertoire
  • Solo and ensemble playing across multiple genres
  • Building endurance, phrasing, and stylistic interpretation
  • Developing improvisation and arranging skills
  • Ensemble performance techniques, including timing and blend
  • Preparation for auditions, recording projects, or live performances
  • Techniques for stage confidence and musical expression

Any Age | Any Stage | Any Style


Ukulele Lessons for Kids

Ages 5-12

What to Expect for Kids Learning Ukulele
  • One-on-one ukulele lessons designed to make learning fun
  • Focus on correct strumming, chord shapes, rhythm, and basic fingerpicking
  • Introduction to reading music and playing in time with others
  • Encouragement to grow confidence through practice and performance
  • Flexible approach, whether learning casually or working toward structured goals
Learning Outcomes
  • Play simple songs using basic chords and strumming patterns
  • Develop a steady rhythm and musical timing
  • Strengthen focus, coordination, and listening skills through regular practice.
  • Gain confidence performing in optional recitals and group activities
A student in school playing the Ukulele

Ukulele Lessons for Teens

Ages 13-18

What to Expect for Teens Learning Ukulele
  • Learn Ukulele in pop, rock, folk, or contemporary styles
  • Prepare for school performances, auditions, or recording projects
  • Receive support for talent shows, ensembles, or creative songwriting
Learning Outcomes
  • Build creative independence and develop a unique musical identity
  • Strengthen discipline and confidence through consistent practice
  • Use music as a positive outlet for stress and self-expression
  • Gain a lifelong skill that supports both academic and personal growth
A female teen playing the Ukulele at home on the couch

Ukulele Lessons for Adults

Ages 19+

What to Expect for Adults Learning Ukulele
  • Lesson times available on weekdays, evenings, and weekends
  • Play the music you enjoy, from folk, pop, and your favourite songs
  • No exams required unless you choose to set personal milestones
  • Lessons focused on steady progress, enjoyment, and relaxation
Learning Outcomes
  • Reduce stress and support wellness through music
  • Strengthen memory, focus, and coordination
  • Build a rewarding hobby that fits your lifestyle
  • Gain confidence and a sense of achievement with one-on-one instruction
A male adult enjoying the Ukulele at home

"I've always wanted to learn, but I don't have a Ukulele."

This is one of the most common concerns we hear, and the good news is that you don't need to own a Ukulele to take lessons.

At Long & McQuade, we make it easy for beginners to get started without the pressure of buying an instrument right away. We offer affordable Ukulele rentals and will help you choose the right model for your needs. Our team is here to support you every step of the way.


Understanding the Different Types of Ukuleles


If you're thinking about starting Ukulele, here's a simple guide to understanding the different types of Ukuleles. Each has its own qualities and suits different players, from beginners to advanced performers.

Soprano Ukulele SKU 708304

Soprano Ukulele

The soprano is the smallest and most traditional size of ukulele. Its bright, cheerful tone and compact body make it an excellent choice for beginners, younger players, and anyone who wants that classic Hawaiian ukulele sound. Compared to other ukuleles, it has the shortest scale length and the highest pitch, giving it a light and playful voice.

Concert Ukulele SKU 772774

Concert Ukulele

The concert ukulele is slightly larger than the soprano, offering a fuller sound while still being easy to handle. It is great for players who want a balance of comfort and sound, making it one of the most popular choices for students and hobbyists. Compared to the soprano, the concert has a bit more warmth in its tone and slightly more room on the fretboard.

Tenor Ukulele SKU 772783

Tenor Ukulele

The tenor ukulele has a larger body and deeper tone than the soprano or concert. Its longer scale length gives players more fret space, which is great for those with larger hands or for more advanced playing. Compared to smaller ukuleles, the tenor produces a stronger, richer sound that works well for both strumming and fingerpicking.

Baritone Ukulele SKU 770981

Baritone Ukulele

The baritone ukulele is the largest of the standard sizes and is tuned lower, closer to the top four strings of a guitar. This makes it a great option for guitar players crossing over to ukulele or for anyone who wants a warmer, deeper sound. Compared to other ukuleles, the baritone has a more mellow voice and a familiar feel for guitarists.

"How do I Pick the Right Ukulele Teacher?"

Choosing the right Ukulele teacher is one of the most essential parts of your musical journey. At Long & McQuade, we believe a great instructor is not only experienced but also the right fit for your goals, personality, and learning style.
You're a parent looking for an instructor for your child, a teen interested in a particular music style, or an adult learner seeking a new hobby. Long & McQuade will help you find the perfect teacher for your Ukulele lessons.


Choosing the Right Program at Long & McQuade


A child taking private Ukulele lessons with a teacher

Private Ukulele Lessons

Private Ukulele Lessons at Long & McQuade are one-on-one with weekly 30- or 60-minute sessions. Your instructor creates a personalized learning plan tailored to your skills and goals. Flexible scheduling makes it easy to fit practice into busy weeks. Private lessons are suitable for students starting at age 8.

A female on the couch with her laptop taking online Ukulele lessons on video

Online Ukulele Lessons

Online Ukulele Lessons at Long & McQuade are one-on-one with weekly 30-, 45- or 60-minute sessions. Your instructor creates a personalized learning plan tailored to your skills and goals. Flexible scheduling makes it easy to fit practice into busy weeks. Online lessons are suitable for students starting at the age of 8.

"How can I be successful in my Ukulele Lessons?"

It's all about being consistent with practice.

The students who grow the most on their musical journey are the ones who practice regularly. Practicing for even just a few minutes a day can make a big difference.


Frequently Asked Questions


Most children are ready to begin Ukulele lessons around age 5 or 6, though some may start a little earlier or later, depending on their interest and attention span. The Ukulele is small, lightweight, and easy to handle, making it an excellent choice for young beginners. Our teachers adapt lessons to children's needs and keep learning fun.

While we would prefer the student to have their own instrument they are comfortable using, you do not need to own a Ukulele to take lessons! We offer affordable Ukulele rentals online or in-store and can help you choose the right size and type for you.

Most students start with 30-minute weekly lessons, with options of 45 and 60 minutes available for intermediate and advanced players. Lesson length depends on your age, focus, and goals.

Yes! Many of our instructors offer online Ukulele lessons through reliable video platforms. Online lessons are a convenient way to learn from home while still receiving personalized, one-on-one instruction.

We'll help you find an instructor who matches your goals, schedule, and learning style. Whether your focus is casual playing, school music projects, or advanced performance, we'll connect you with the right teacher.

Lesson fees vary depending on the instructor's experience and the length of the lesson. Most 30-minute Ukulele Lessons start at competitive rates. Contact our Lessons Center and we'll help you find options that fit your budget.

Yes! We host recitals and student events throughout the year. These give ukulele students the chance to perform, build confidence, and celebrate their progress with family and friends.

Not at all! We welcome adult learners of all skill levels, even complete beginners. Many adults find Ukulele Lessons relaxing, rewarding, and an excellent way to boost mental wellness.

We understand that life gets busy. While we encourage regular attendance for consistent progress, we offer flexible scheduling options and make-up lessons when possible. Please notify our Lessons Coordinator in advance.

Soprano and concert ukuleles are the most common for beginners to start with. They are small, easy to play, and provide the classic ukulele sound. Our team will help you select the ideal size and style, tailored to your age, comfort, and personal goals.