Ukulele
Happy, bright, and impossible not to smile when you hear it, the ukulele is one of the most joyful instruments a student can pick up. It’s approachable enough for young beginners, satisfying enough to keep older students and adults coming back, and surprisingly versatile across pop, folk, Hawaiian, jazz, and beyond. At Charlotte Academy of the Arts, we welcome ukulele students ages 5 and up at our studio in Matthews, NC — because it’s never too early (or too late) to find your strum.
What to expect
Before your first lesson, we match you with the teacher best suited to your student’s goals, personality, and schedule. Your teacher will get to know your student: what draws them to the ukulele, any prior music experience, and what they’re hoping to accomplish.
Ukulele lessons start with the basics; holding the instrument, strumming technique, chords, and rhythm. One of the things students love most about the ukulele is how quickly they start sounding amazing! Most beginners are playing recognizable songs within their first few lessons. From there we focus on fingerpicking, music reading, and song you truly love to play.
Why you'll love it
Our ukulele teachers bring enthusiasm and a love for teaching to every lesson. Lessons are built around each student’s goals and musical tastes. Whether your child is drawn to pop songs, Hawaiian classics, or just wants to strum around the house, or whether you’re an adult who’s always wanted a fun, accessible instrument to pick up, our teachers make every lesson something to look forward to. The ukulele is also a favorite among singers looking for an instrument to accompany their voice. When students are ready, they can participate in optional studio recitals and casual concerts to share what they’ve been working on.
Class details
Ukulele lessons are held once per week on the same day and time so it becomes a natural part of your family’s schedule. We offer three lesson lengths to fit different ages, attention spans, and goals:
- 30 minutes $39
- 45 minutes $58.50
- 60 minutes $78
Our lessons run year-round, which keeps students progressing consistently and avoiding the regression that comes with breaks in their schedule. We will help you choose the best lesson length at enrollment, and it’s easy to adjust as your student grows.
What’s included
Our ukulele students receive one-on-one instruction, weekly practice assignments, and access to all optional performance opportunities. As a CAA student, you’ll also have first access to our special events throughout the year including PopArts Kids Night Out, holiday events, and exclusive performance opportunities that go beyond the lesson studio. New students are welcomed to the Charlotte Academy of the Arts family with a tote bag upon enrollment.
FAQs
What age can my child start ukulele lessons?
We welcome ukulele students ages 5 and up. The ukulele is actually one of the best instruments for young beginners. It’s lightweight, has soft nylon strings that are gentle on small fingers, and produces real music quickly, which keeps young students engaged and excited.
Does my child need prior experience or the ability to read music?
Not at all! We welcome complete beginners at every age. Reading music is introduced gradually as part of lessons, but many ukulele students also learn through chord charts and tabs. Your teacher will find the approach that works best for you.
What size ukulele does my child need?
Ukuleles come in four main sizes — soprano, concert, tenor, and baritone. Soprano is the smallest and most traditional; concert is slightly larger with a bit more room for growing fingers. Most young beginners start on soprano or concert.
Is ukulele a good stepping stone to guitar?
Absolutely. The ukulele shares a lot of foundational skills with guitar such as chord shapes, strumming patterns, fingerpicking, and music reading. Many students who start on ukulele find the transition to guitar feels very natural when they’re ready. It’s a wonderful first stringed instrument for younger students who aren’t quite ready for a full-size guitar.
Can adults take ukulele lessons?
Absolutely and adult ukulele students are some of our most enthusiastic. Whether you’re a complete beginner, always wanted a fun instrument to pick up, or are looking for something joyful to add to your life, the ukulele delivers. It’s never too late, and such a gift to give yourself.
Do students have to perform in recitals?
All performance opportunities are completely optional. We encourage students to share their music when they’re ready, but we never pressure anyone to perform before they feel comfortable. That said, we hope you’ll develop a love for sharing your music with others!
What if my child misses a lesson?
Your teacher will share their makeup and cancellation policies with you upon enrollment. If you need to cancel, please reach out to your teacher as soon as possible.
Where is Charlotte Academy of the Arts located?
We’re located in Idlewild Market, Matthews, NC, just off I-485, an easy drive for families throughout the area. We serve students from Matthews, Mint Hill, Indian Trail, Harrisburg, Weddington, Stallings, Monroe, Charlotte, and across both Mecklenburg and Union Counties. If you’re looking for ukulele lessons in the southeast Charlotte or Union County area, we’re likely closer than you think. Our CAA families enjoy making the most of lesson time buying groceries, getting their nails done, or even getting in a workout right in our shopping center.
