7 Easy Ukulele Songs for Seniors

It has been said the easiest instrument to play is the ukulele. It's not only easy, but it's one of those instruments that has a sound that can go from beautiful and classic, to fun and raucous. As will be seen by the seven easy ukulele songs included here for beginners to learn.

1. Oh My Darling, Clementine (Traditional) - G, D7, and C
2. Down in the Valley (Traditional) - C and G7
3. Skip to My Lou (American Traditional) - C and G
4. Amazing Grace (Traditional) - C, F, and G7
5. Happy Birthday (Traditional) - A, D, and G
6. Jambalaya (One the Bayou) by Hank Williams - C and G7
7. Sweet Home Alabama by Lynyrd Skynyrd - D, C, and G

You can find more help at ukulele-lessons.com and anywhere on the internet look up "helpful ukulele tabs", but I prefer looking up the actual chords for easy ukulele songs, and then add 2 or 3 chords to your search.
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There are multiple benefits of learning an instrument as you age.

The Brain and Social Interaction

You develop your brain by using several parts that keep your mind sharp. As stated on the link above, playing an instrument does for your brain what circuit training does for your body. It incorporates various sections of the brain that need to function while playing and learning the instrument. These functions you need to keep the brain healthy as you age.
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You socialize with others who play instruments. What better way to find friends with similar interests? I have made more great friendships with fellow musicians than any other hobby. Get out and start "jamming" with others!

​Personality and Self-Esteem

Each instrument brings out a part of your personality. Just because the ukulele is the easiest to begin playing, it doesn't mean you have to only play the ukulele. When I was young I learned the guitar. It made transitioning to the ukulele very easy, but from that instrument I went on to play piano, percussion and drums. It's like learning a new language. Once you learn one, you find the rest are easier to pick up on.
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As we age, its nice to know there is something that will make us feel both useful and capable. The ukulele, like any instrument, will give you a sense of self-esteem, especially if you are tackling it at a time everyone is telling you to slow down and just stop. Well this is the exact time you should start.

​Physical and Senses

Whenever you play an instrument you are using fine motor skills. The ukulele stretches the fingers and bends the arms, incorporates the shoulders and muscles you don't usually use. Don't forget to use good posture, as well, whenever you play an instrument. Your body will thank you in the long run.
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There is no doubt listening to music builds the sense of hearing and brings all those parts of the senses you need to truly appreciate sound.

​Emotional and Self-Worth

Sometimes, when you are alone there is something comforting about playing an instrument. Its what I call, "soul charge." An instrument will undoubtedly charge you when you're feeling down. It's one of the best cures for depression.

To tackle something after age 60 always makes us feel we're still learning and moving forward. That's always a good feeling. In fact, tackling any new task at any age is well worth the challenge.

As an old Danish proverb states, "Age may wrinkle the face, but lack of enthusiasm wrinkles the soul."

So please, try these seven songs and enjoy learning something new!
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Here's to taking up an enthusiastic new hobby!