Firstly, what is a play along video?
Simply put, it is a video using the original song but has the ukulele chords and the lyrics added with an indication of when the chords change throughout the song.
Why are ukulele play along videos useful?
For an individual they are a great way to practice generally, for chord changes, keeping in time, building confidence as a singer and just as a fun thing to do.
For teaching purposes of larger groups they are a game changer! The videos immediately engage the player but more importantly frees up the teacher, so instead of concentrating on playing the uke, singing, controlling the group whilst still trying to encourage everyone, the teacher can move around supporting and praising when necessary.
Who makes the play along videos?
Currently there are a handful of makers using this similar format; generally music teachers and all in music education. The first videos were made by Dr Jill Reese in 2015 but another notable contributer is Dr Chris Russell (aka Ukulele Tenor on Youtube) for really building the "play along community". Our school club the "Ukulaliens" first discovered the videos in spring 2017 and I starting making our own videos later in 2017.
There are links to various Youtube channels on the left of the page and below is a link to an extensive list of over 1000 different ukulele play along videos. |
