Published:
2025-06-10
Updated:
2026-03-07
Learning Ukulele with Curt
Six Secrets of Ukulele Fingering - Summary of Fingering Principles
The dominant principle of fingering is Basic. The other principles are used when notes can’t be played in a 4 fret span or when a particular musical effect is needed.
Author(s): Curt Sheller Publisher: Curt Sheller Publications Code: UL6SUFBK-Summary
Main Category: Fingering Main Instrument: Ukulele
Subjects: Chords
2026-03-07
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The dominant principle of fingering is Basic. The other principles are used when notes can’t be played in a 4 fret span or when a particular musical effect is needed.
Each of the examples illustrate a fingering principle. However, all of them except Basic are combinations of two principles - the specific principle and Basic. The most fundamental form of combination is Basic and one other principle.
The purpose of the Slide, Pass and Leap is to connect different 4 fret spans by shift. The Stationary Stretch holds the position already established but allows for notes outside the 4 fret span. The Mobile Stretch can also set up a new 4 fret span. The Contraction moves into a new 4 fret span according to the situation. A Contraction may occur “on - string” or “cross - string” and will create ascending or descending movement depending upon the finger combination used.