Consolidate the ability to change between all the chords in the key of C major and learn which chords go together well.
At level 2, we need to consolidate being able to change between all the chords in the key of C major. This will enable us to play most songs that are in the key of C major.
The chords in C major, regardless of instrument, are; C, Dm, Em, F, G and Am.
We can use a simple number system to remember which chords are major and which are minor.
Chords one, four and five are major. Chords two, three and six are minor. This is often written in roman numerals so these numbers are not confused with beats, rhythms or tab numbers. Therefore, the chords in the key of C can be written as follows;
C - Dm - Em - F - G - Am
I - ii - iii - IV - V - vi
Small letter roman numerals indicate minor chords, big letters indicate major.
This can be a lot to take in if it's totally new. But this concept of musical keys becomes THE way of understanding what chords and notes go together to make songs, especially move through the levels. So lets look at some songs in the key of C major!
Recommended songs for Ukulele Level 2
See below my recommended songs to learn at Level 2! These are all a playing standard equivalent of grade 1 or the traditional grading system we use for all instruments in the UK - so it's a huge achievement for a beginner to be able to play these!
These are also ALL in the key of C major, so the theory covered above is demonstrating in the chord progressions of the following songs.
Lean On Me by Bill Withers
Rip Tide by Vance Joy
Happy Birthday
