A Guitarist’s Take on Hari Raya: A Celebration with Dhalif Ali
I sat down with my talented friend and fellow guitarist, Dhalif Ali, who shared his personal experiences of celebrating Hari Raya as a musician. Hari Raya Aidilfitri, or simply Hari Raya, is a time of joy, reflection, and togetherness for the Muslim community. As the fasting month of Ramadan comes to an end, families and friends gather to celebrate with feasts, forgiveness, and a renewed spirit of gratitude. While Hari Raya is rich in cultural traditions, music plays an equally important role in setting the festive mood. Dhalif shared some valuable insights about Hari Raya to understand this connection better!
The Soundtrack of Hari Raya, as recommended by Dhalif Ali
“As a guitarist, music has always been a huge part of Hari Raya in my home,” Dhalif Ali tells me with a smile. “From the moment the first guests arrive, there’s a mix of traditional Hari Raya songs and modern renditions playing in the background. It just makes the whole celebration feel even more alive.”
Here are the top 3 songs as recommended by Dhalif!
As a guitarist, Dhalif Ali finds ways to infuse his passion into the celebrations. “The most significant and meaningful tradition that we do during Hari Raya is that the family and extended family will gather at the aunt’s place, and everyone will ask for forgiveness in a line from eldest to youngest from our senior family members. Of course, the guitar will always be something we chat about!”
Dhalif is well known as a guitarist, but he is quite a foodie too!
“My favourite Hari Raya dish is definitely going to be something called Sambal Goreng Pengantin. It is a rich, spicy, and luxurious take on the traditional sambal goreng, often served during special occasions like weddings or Hari Raya, featuring a blend of spices, coconut milk, and ingredients like beef, liver, and lung. I’ve always picked out the liver separately because I don’t like it, but my wife makes them WITHOUT liver, which is perfect lol”
A Note of Harmony
As our conversation wraps up, Dhalif Ali leaves me with a final thought: “Hari Raya is more than just a festival—it’s a feeling. It’s the joy of reunion, the comfort of tradition, and the power of music to bring people together.”
As someone who is not a Muslim but deeply respects and admires the beauty of this festival, I find it inspiring how Hari Raya embodies unity through its traditions, music, and spirit of giving. Whether through the strumming of a guitar, the rhythm of traditional songs, or the laughter shared over a meal, the celebration of Hari Raya is a melody that welcomes everyone to join in.
If you wish to play the guitar as well as Dhalif, consider taking a Trial Lesson with us! I am sure with our decade-long experience, we will be of valuable help to you. Contact us through these easy channels! 🙂
Avengers: Doomsday (Music Analysis and Predictions)
We did our music analysis and prediction for The Marvel Cinematic Universe Avengers: Doomsday! Though the teaser is only 1 minute and 47 seconds long, the soundtrack is carefully designed to evoke the characters and their iconic themes. In fact, it might even hint at what’s to come in the movie! If you love diving into details like this, let’s break it down together!
Our music analysis of Avengers: Doomsday (and Predictions)
Time: 00:00 / Name on chair: Chris Hemsworth
Music Analysis
The first sounds in the teaser greet us with tubular bells, a concert bass drum, and deep-register instruments like the double bass and tuba. There’s also a distinct metallic strike—possibly an anvil tuned to E. Notably, the name on the chair is Chris Hemsworth, the actor behind the beloved Thor in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. That single metallic E note immediately evokes Thor’s Mjölnir, reinforcing his presence.
Prediction
Our guess? The movie opens with Thor catching his hammer and kicking off the story with a narration—just like he did in Thor: Ragnarok. After all, he does love telling a good story!
Time: 00:07 / Name on chair: Anthony Mackie
Music Analysis
The tubular bell rings again, but this time, the name on the chair is Anthony Mackie—the new Captain America. And what does Cap use? That’s right, the Vibranium Shield—a powerful, energy-absorbing metal found only in Wakanda. Interestingly, the same bell sound introduces Captain America, mirroring the metallic ring of his shield when caught—just like Thor’s hammer.
Prediction
Yes, we skipped over Vanessa Kirby (Sue Storm)! We’re still unsure how she’ll be introduced—perhaps through S.H.I.E.L.D. intelligence or something similar. But for now, we believe the next big reveal could be Captain America. Fingers crossed for another epic moment where Thor hammers Cap’s shield, unleashing a massive shockwave!
Time: 00:14 / Name on chair: Letitia Wright
Music Analysis
At this moment, rhythmic drumming kicks in, just as Letitia Wright’s name appears on the chair. And why? WAKANDA FOREVER! The drumbeat instantly recalls the way Wakandans prepare for battle and ritual challenges. This percussive style closely resembles how Djembes are played in Mali and other parts of Africa. In African cultures, percussion holds deep significance, making it a powerful and symbolic choice for Marvel to introduce at this point in the teaser.
Prediction
Yes, we skipped over Sebastian Stan (Bucky Barnes)—who, let’s not forget, has a prosthetic arm made by Shuri. Our guess? Bucky and Shuri are in Wakanda during this part of the movie, possibly following a separate storyline before eventually linking up. This wouldn’t be the first time an MCU film weaves Wakanda into a larger narrative!
Time: 00:18 / Name on chair: Paul Rudd
Music Analysis
Ant-Man’s iconic theme was played on a soulful trumpet! A key rule in writing a catchy melody is keeping it within five notes or fewer, and Ant-Man’s theme is a perfect example. It consists of just four unique notes in E minor, making it an excellent teaching material for melody composition.
Prediction
Ant-Man has been appearing frequently in recent Marvel films—most notably, his giant corpse being used as Cassandra Nova’s headquarters in the Void. Our guess? Ant-Man will play a major role in this movie. He may be small in size, but he’s big in responsibility and impact!
Time: 00:25 / Name on chair: Tenoch Huerta Mejia
Music Analysis
When Tenoch Huerta Mejía’s name appeared, the music remained subtle, but a faint male vocal could be heard in the background. This vocal line instantly recalls Namor’s attack on Wakanda in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. The music arranger cleverly used a single voice to subtly remind us of past events.
Prediction
We predict that Namor will stir up trouble again before ultimately making peace and joining the right side. After all, he was defeated in Wakanda Forever—but not entirely out of the game!
Time: 01:00 / Name on chair: Patrick Stewart and Ian McKellen
Music Analysis
Two iconic X-Men characters were introduced with the classic X-Men theme, played by powerful trumpets! This melody comes straight from X-Men ’97, a nostalgic favorite for many of us who grew up watching it on TV.
Predictions
This one’s tricky to predict. Professor X has always had clear intentions, but Magneto has walked the line between villain and hero. However, with Doctor Doom likely being the main antagonist, we suspect the mutants may unite against him.
Side note: By this point, we have skipped passed quite a few names!
Time: 01:11 / Name on FINAL chair: Robert Downey Jr.
Music Analysis
Muted trumpets played a three-note motif—root, second, and flattened fifth! This diminished melody creates a dark, ominous theme. While many fan compositions honoring Doctor Doom exist on YouTube, we’ve never heard this in the MCU before. Our best guess? This could be his new official theme!
Predictions
There’s not much to predict—Doctor Doom stole Iron Man’s technology, traveled to the end of time, and hunted Loki to control every timeline. Then again, we could be completely wrong!
Conclusion
As music nerds, we love analyzing, dissecting, and playing music! If you enjoyed this article, you might be just like us. So why not join the fun?
We are a music school offering guitar lessons at Upper Thomson Road, Singapore. Signing up for piano lessons, guitar lessons, drum lessons, or even bass lessons with us means learning from a team with over 10 years of experience! You will be joining a successful music school in Singapore. Over the years, we have refined our teaching methods to ensure they are engaging, effective, and tailored to suit students of all ages and skill levels. Our commitment to excellence goes beyond lessons—we organize annual recitals! It provides our guitar students with the opportunity to showcase their progress, build confidence, and experience the joy of performing.
Consider taking a Trial Lesson with us! I am sure with our decade-long experience, we will be of valuable help to you. Contact us through these easy channels! 🙂
Should your child start with acoustic or electric guitar lessons? This is a common question we’ve encountered throughout our decade of experience at Vinnie Classroom. Many children are eager to learn the electric guitar, while parents often consider the higher start-up costs compared to an acoustic guitar. But is there a definitive right way to begin learning the guitar? If you’re facing this dilemma, let us guide you!
Yes, we offer both Acoustic guitar and Electric guitar lessons!
Unlike some guitar schools that offer only acoustic or electric guitar lessons, we provide both! This means we’re not here to claim that one is better than the other. Instead, this article aims to outline the pros and cons of each, helping you make an informed decision. But if we had to sum it up for you—there’s no wrong choice!
We are a music school offering guitar lessons at Upper Thomson Road, Singapore. Signing up for guitar lessons with us means learning from a team with over 10 years of experience running a successful music school in Singapore. Over the years, we have refined our teaching methods to ensure they are engaging, effective, and tailored to suit students of all ages and skill levels. Our commitment to excellence goes beyond lessons—we organize annual recitals! It provides our guitar students with the opportunity to showcase their progress, build confidence, and experience the joy of performing.
Pros and cons of learning the acoustic guitar first
The acoustic guitar holds a significant place across various music genres and scenes. It’s a favorite among strum-and-sing musicians and is highly cherished by fingerstyle guitarists. If you prefer a straightforward playing experience without the hassle of effect pedals and amplifiers, the acoustic guitar’s simplicity will appeal to you. However, there are still reasons why some musicians choose electric over acoustic. Let’s explore!
Pros of Learning the Acoustic Guitar:
Portability & Simplicity – No need for amplifiers, cables, or effects; just pick it up and play anywhere.
Stronger Finger Development – The higher string tension helps build finger strength and dexterity faster.
Great for Song Accompaniment – Ideal for strumming and singing along, making it perfect for solo performances.
Lower Initial Cost – Generally more affordable than electric guitar setups, with no need for extra gear.
Versatile Across Genres – Well-suited for folk, pop, country, blues, and even fingerstyle music.
Cons of Learning the Acoustic Guitar:
Higher String Tension – Can be harder on beginners’ fingers, making it more challenging to press down on strings.
Less Tonal Variety – Limited sound options compared to electric guitars with effects and amplification.
Bulkier & Less Ergonomic – Larger body size may feel uncomfortable for younger or smaller players.
Not Ideal for Rock & Metal – Lacks distortion and sustain, making it unsuitable for certain genres.
Requires More Finger Strength – Barre chords and complex fingerpicking can be more demanding compared to an electric guitar.
That said, many of these drawbacks can be addressed with the right solutions. For instance, high string tension can be reduced by choosing the right strings and ensuring the guitar is properly set up by a professional. The issue of a bulky guitar body is no longer a concern, as there are various shapes and sizes available, including 3/4-sized guitars for younger children. Additionally, learning on an acoustic guitar helps develop finger strength, which can be beneficial when transitioning to electric guitar later. Its portability also allows students to practice anywhere at home. Overall, we generally recommend beginners start with the acoustic guitar.
Pros and cons of learning the electric guitar first
The electric guitar has an undeniable cool factor that many people are drawn to. Learning it allows students to experiment with sound effects and create unique tones—something not easily achievable on an acoustic guitar without technical knowledge. Electric guitars also come in a wide variety of bold shapes and vibrant colors, offering a flashier aesthetic compared to the traditional wooden tones of acoustic guitars. These exciting features often make the electric guitar the first choice for many young learners. But is starting with an electric guitar the best option? Let’s find out.
Pros of Learning the Electric Guitar First:
Easier Playability – Lighter string tension and a slimmer neck make it easier for beginners to press down on the strings and form chords.
Greater Sound Variety – Effects pedals and amplifiers allow students to explore different tones and genres, from clean blues to heavy metal.
More Engaging for Young Learners – The “cool factor” of an electric guitar, along with the ability to play rock songs early on, can keep students motivated.
Lower Finger Strain – The softer strings and lower action reduce finger discomfort, making it less painful for beginners.
Volume Control – With an amp and headphones, students can practice quietly without disturbing others.
Cons of Learning the Electric Guitar First:
Higher Initial Cost – Requires additional gear like an amplifier, cables, and possibly effects pedals, making it more expensive than an acoustic guitar.
More Complex Setup – Learning to manage amps, effects, and different guitar settings can be overwhelming for absolute beginners.
Less Focus on Finger Strength – The lighter strings and lower action mean students may not develop as much finger strength early on, which can be beneficial when transitioning to acoustic.
Portability Issues – Unlike an acoustic guitar, an electric guitar needs an amp for full sound, making it less convenient for spontaneous practice.
Risk of Over-Reliance on Effects – Beginners may focus more on effects and distortion rather than proper technique and playing dynamics.
In general, the electric guitar lacks mobility due to its more complex setup. Even with modern solutions like headphone amplifiers, playing still involves managing multiple cables and equipment. Additionally, some budget-friendly electric guitars made from cheaper wood can be quite heavy, making them less suitable for young children. That said, as mentioned earlier, the electric guitar has its advantages. The “cool factor” plays a key role in keeping students motivated—both the acoustic and electric guitar require consistent practice, and for some, the excitement of learning electric can make practice feel more purposeful. Ultimately, we recommend starting with the electric guitar if the student has a strong interest and understanding of what it entails!
Conclusion
Ultimately, whether a student should start with the acoustic or electric guitar depends on their personal interests, goals, and learning preferences. The acoustic guitar offers simplicity, portability, and a solid foundation for finger strength, while the electric guitar provides versatility, ease of play, and an exciting range of sounds. Both instruments require dedication and practice, and there is no absolute right or wrong choice. The best option is the one that keeps the student engaged and motivated to continue their musical journey. Whatever the decision, the most important thing is to start and enjoy the process of learning and making music!
However, if you still need help, talk to us. Taking guitar lessons can help you understand more about guitar picks!
Consider taking a Trial Lesson with us! I am sure with our decade-long experience, we will be of valuable help to you.
Music students taking music lessons in Singapore are mostly unfamiliar with those instruments and music written for China’s Ne Zha 2. Although approximately 75% of Singaporeans are ethnically Chinese, many of us know little about China’s rich artistic culture. Despite having four official languages—Mandarin, English, Malay, and Tamil—English remains the primary language for most people here.
Back in 1981, the Singapore government decided to phase out the use of Chinese dialects, promoting Mandarin as the standard language for Chinese Singaporeans. While this move improved Mandarin proficiency, it also led to a decline in our ability to communicate with the older generation. As a result, we gradually lost touch with the stories and arts of our Chinese heritage.
Curious about the music from the highest-grossing animated IMAX release, which also boasts a staggering box office of $1.9 billion? Read on!
Signing up with a music school for regular music lessons in Singapore can help you explore unique instruments around the world!
In Singapore, most of us don’t have easy access to unique cultural instruments. Local music stores typically offer a limited range, focusing on familiar options like the piano, guitar, and drums. However, choosing to learn these common instruments doesn’t mean you’ll miss out on exploring more distinctive sounds, like those featured in Ne Zha 2.
Music is a universal language—mastering one instrument can make understanding and learning another much easier!
We are a music school offering guitar lessons at Upper Thomson Road, Singapore. Signing up for guitar lessons with us means learning from a team with over 10 years of experience running a successful music school in Singapore. Over the years, we have refined our teaching methods to ensure they are engaging, effective, and tailored to suit students of all ages and skill levels. Our commitment to excellence goes beyond lessons—we organize annual recitals! It provides our guitar students with the opportunity to showcase their progress, build confidence, and experience the joy of performing.
Instruments used in China’s Ne Zha 2 are from various parts of China
In a recent interview, Halamuji 哈拉木吉 revealed that he incorporated numerous Mongolian instruments into the soundtrack of Ne Zha 2, China’s most popular movie. We’ll delve into those Mongolian instruments shortly.
The songs, performed using the captivating throat singing technique, evoke an otherworldly atmosphere unlike anything we’re used to hearing. The soundtrack also features music from the Dong ethnic group 侗族—a community most Singaporeans might be unfamiliar with. Considered a minority in China, the Dong people number around three million and primarily reside along the borders of Guizhou 贵州, Hunan 湖南, and Guangxi 广西 provinces.
Naturally, the soundtrack also includes familiar instruments commonly found in Chinese orchestras, such as the pipa 琵琶 and suona 唢呐!
Mongolian instruments formed the sound of China’s Ne Zha 2
Khoomei 呼麦, more commonly known as throat singing, is an integral part of Mongolian music and culture. This remarkable technique enables singers to produce multiple harmonically layered notes simultaneously. While it may seem common in certain performances, it remains an incredibly difficult skill for most people to master.
Another artist who comes to mind with a similar vocal approach is Avi Kaplan, the former member of Pentatonix, known for his impressive overtone singing.
Igil 伊克勒
The Igil is a two-stringed instrument commonly found in western Mongolia. Played with a bow, much like a cello, it produces a deep, rich, and low-pitched sound. Interestingly, the Igil actually originates from Tuva, a region in southern Siberia, Russia—which, as you might have guessed, borders Mongolia.
As Halamuji explained, throughout China’s long history, instruments from Western regions gradually spread across the country. This cultural exchange is why the Tuvan Igil has become an integral part of Mongolian music today.
Morin Khuur 马头琴(Horsehead Fiddle)
The Morin Khuur shares many similarities with the Igil—both are two-stringed, bowed instruments. However, what sets the Morin Khuur apart is the distinctive wooden carving of a horse’s head adorning the top of the instrument. This horse head holds cultural significance, with several legendary stories behind it, which you can explore further on Wikipedia.
Unlike traditional throat singing, Halamuji performs with the Morin Khuur using overtone singing, crafting a truly unique and captivating soundscape.
Can Mongolian music fuse with Western music?
I’m glad you asked! Before China’s Ne Zha 2, the world was blown away by The HU and their electrifying metal renditions. They stunned audiences by blending heavy metal with traditional instruments like the mouth harp, Morin Khuur, and throat singing—something no one had heard before! Honestly, their covers made Metallica’s songs sound even more powerful from our perspective!
Conclusion about these unique instruments found in China’s Ne Zha 2
While the unique instruments featured in Ne Zha 2 are fascinating and culturally rich, it’s still beneficial for people in Singapore to start with regular music lessons on more common instruments like the piano, guitar, or drums. These instruments provide a solid foundation in essential musical concepts such as rhythm, melody, and harmony—skills that are easily transferable to more unique instruments later on. By building this strong base, you’ll be better equipped to explore and appreciate the complexities of rare instruments while progressing faster in your musical journey. Starting with familiar instruments is a practical first step that opens the door to a world of musical possibilities!
Consider taking a Trial Lesson with us! I am sure with our decade-long experience, we will be of valuable help to you. Contact us through these easy channels! 🙂
How we use 3D printing to make our Corporate Music Workshops better!
3D-printing has helped many industries to prototype faster and it certainly has helped us to make our corporate music workshops better! Designing an anti-roll microphone ring has long been on my to-do list, as it could greatly improve how we run our music school’s corporate workshops and recitals. However, I never quite found the right motivation to dedicate time to it—until recently. A friend from one of the top event companies in Singapore reached out, seeking help with this very issue. It was the perfect opportunity to finally bring the idea to life, so I jumped at the chance to design an anti-roll mic ring tailored for his Shure SM58.
We are always looking at improving our Corporate Music Workshops!
During our recent Corporate Music Workshops, we faced challenges with the absence of anti-roll mic rings, often struggling to keep our microphones secure. While anti-roll rings have been around for a long time and are widely available, most follow a one-size-fits-all approach, making their effectiveness unpredictable. When these rings slip off during workshops, it not only disrupts the flow but can also leave a less-than-ideal impression on participants. Although we’ve consistently delivered smooth workshops, we believe there’s always room for improvement—and finding solutions to these small but significant issues is part of that commitment.
On the surface, we are a music school offering guitar lessons at Upper Thomson Road, Singapore. However, our role extends beyond that—we are passionate music educators with extensive experience conducting music programs and workshops in MOE schools and corporate settings. When you sign up for our music workshops, you’re learning from a team with over a decade of experience running a successful music school in Singapore.
Over the years, we’ve continuously refined our teaching methods to make them engaging, effective, and adaptable to students of all ages and skill levels. Our dedication to excellence goes beyond the classroom. We also organize annual recitals, giving our guitar students a platform to showcase their progress, gain confidence, and experience the thrill of performing live.
All music production needs this Anti-roll mic ring!
Anti-Roll Micrphone Ring Version 1
I designed two versions of the anti-roll mic ring, both featuring the Ark Media Production logo. The first version used a spring tension mechanism intended to fit any microphone within a certain diameter. While the idea was to create a universal fit, it didn’t perform as well as we hoped. The second version, however, was designed to fit into the small gap between the microphone body and the steel mesh grille. We ultimately chose this design because it stays securely in place during use and has a much cleaner appearance. Seeing how perfectly it fits the microphone, I believe this is an essential accessory for all music productions!
Anti-Roll Micrphone Ring Version 2
Putting our design to the test in a real-world corporate event!
After 3D printing a batch of these anti-roll microphone rings, we attached them to the microphones and put them through their paces. Honestly, I was a bit anxious about how they would perform compared to what I had envisioned. There are countless factors that can cause a design to fall short—3D printing itself comes with potential pitfalls like fragile components, delamination, and deformation. While a solid design can mitigate these common issues, I wasn’t entirely sure if mine would hold up under real-world use. Thankfully, the rings were well-received by both the event participants and the team at Ark Media Production. What a relief!
What it means for our future Corporate Music Workshops
Although this wasn’t a major issue during our corporate music workshops, addressing it certainly enhances the overall experience for our participants. Solving one challenge opens the door for us to explore new ways to improve and further develop our programs!
If you wish to engage us for your corporate music workshop, reach us through these easy methods below!
How does a music school ensure happy music lessons?
Music lessons offered by music schools in Singapore are hardly related to being happy. This is largely influenced by common social norms like “Kiasu” (fear of losing) and “Kiasi” (fear of failure)—terms you may not hear often but are deeply ingrained in our daily lives. If your child is enrolled in a music school, you’ve likely encountered a grading- and competition-driven culture. Unfortunately, such an environment can hinder the development of a genuine and lasting love for music. In this article, we’ll share how we have successfully fostered a positive and inspiring learning experience.
We are a music school that offers happy music lessons in Singapore 😀
It is a bold statement to say that we are a music school that offers happy music lessons in Singapore! Our motto, “Empowering the next generation through music,” reflects our commitment to creating a positive learning experience. Harsh discipline, including the use of strong words, physical punishment, or psychological pressure, only discourages students rather than uplifting them. These outdated teaching methods are the opposite of what we strive for. With us, you can be confident that your child will not only learn music but also enjoy every lesson and look forward to the next one!
We are a music school offering guitar lessons at Upper Thomson Road, Singapore. Signing up for guitar lessons with us means learning from a team with over 10 years of experience running a successful music school in Singapore. Over the years, we have refined our teaching methods to ensure they are engaging, effective, and tailored to suit students of all ages and skill levels. Our commitment to excellence goes beyond lessons—we organize annual recitals! It provides our guitar students with the opportunity to showcase their progress, build confidence, and experience the joy of performing.
Our students look forward to our recitals!
Music recitals play a key role in nurturing a love for performance! They help build a child’s confidence while teaching them how to manage stress in a positive way. The goal of performing well on stage also instills self-discipline and a deeper understanding of the importance of practice. When performing alongside others, students develop teamwork and collaboration skills. And once the recital is over, they leave the stage with a sense of pride and accomplishment. These experiences contribute to a happy and positive learning journey—perhaps one of the many reasons parents eagerly anticipate our next recital!
Check out what our students and their parents have to say
A music school with a conducive learning environment for happy music lessons
The right learning environment plays a crucial role in shaping a student’s music journey. Everything from the quality of the instruments to the overall atmosphere of the studio contributes to creating a space where students feel inspired and motivated. At our school, we’ve designed our studios to be welcoming and comfortable, ensuring that every lesson feels like an enjoyable experience rather than a rigid class. It’s no surprise that our students are often seen smiling and fully engaged during their lessons—they feel at ease, free to explore music without pressure. While our name may include the word “classroom,” our music studios are anything but traditional. Instead of a formal, structured setting, we offer a dynamic, creative space where students can truly connect with music and develop a lasting passion for it.
Take a graded examination if you’d like!
While we do prepare our students for graded music examinations such as AZNCA, ABRSM and Rockschool, participation is never mandatory. Many view these exams as something that can dampen a child’s passion for music, but that isn’t always the case. When music lessons are conducted the right way, students don’t see exams as a burden—instead, they experience a sense of accomplishment with each passing level. This feeling of achievement motivates them to embrace new challenges and strive for continuous improvement. Just look at the smiles on our students’ faces as they proudly hold up their certificates—their expressions say it all!
We are a music school that knows the right music for happy music lessons
Music is constantly evolving, and so are musical preferences. While traditional songs like Mary Had a Little Lamb can be a good starting point, more engaging tunes—such as APT—are often more effective in keeping young learners interested. Songs from popular children’s shows like Numberblocks, Blippi, or Danny Go also make great lesson materials. Our approach is to stay current and flexible, ensuring that students connect with what they’re learning. While classics like Für Elise and Ode to Joy have stood the test of time, they may feel unrelatable to a child beginning their musical journey in 2025. By starting with familiar and enjoyable songs, we help students build confidence and joy in music, paving the way for a deeper appreciation of classical pieces later on.
Conclusion
At our music school, creating a positive and happy learning environment is at the heart of everything we do. From engaging lesson materials and welcoming studio space to encouraging teaching methods and exciting performance opportunities, we ensure that every student enjoys their musical journey. By focusing on inspiration rather than pressure, we help students build confidence, develop a love for music, and look forward to every lesson. Whether they are playing their favorite songs, preparing for exams, or performing on stage, they do so with joy and enthusiasm. Music should be a source of happiness, and we are committed to making that a reality for every student who walks through our doors.
Consider signing up for a trial now! Time to unlock your full potential!
Consider taking a Trial Lesson with us! I am sure with our decade-long experience, we will be of valuable help to you. Contact us through these easy channels! 🙂
There are plenty of things to look out for when buying an Ukulele in Singapore. With the vast selection available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and end up with a purchase you might regret. This article is here to guide beginners like you in narrowing down your options and making the process simpler and more enjoyable. So, if you’re looking for a new ukulele for your ukulele lessons in Singapore, keep reading!
Quick summarized points on “5 Things to look out for when buying an Ukulele”
Before you decide if this article is for you, here are our 5 points about things to look out for when buying an ukulele.
Size of the Ukulele
Pickup options
Tuning configuration
Body Shape
Budget
Taking Ukulele Lessons can help you search for your dream Ukulele
There is no doubt that some understanding and knowledge of the instrument can help make the right purchase. Taking Ukulele lessons with us can help you achieve just that.
We are a music school in Singapore offering ukulele lessons at Upper Thomson Road. Signing up for ukulele lessons with us means learning from a team with over 10 years of experience running a successful music school in Singapore. Over the years, we have refined our teaching methods to ensure they are engaging, effective, and tailored to suit students of all ages and skill levels. Our commitment to excellence goes beyond lessons—we organize annual recitals! It provides our ukulele students with the opportunity to showcase their progress, build confidence, and experience the joy of performing.
Size does matter
Unlike Singapore’s unofficial Uniqlo uniform, bigger isn’t always better—especially for ukuleles. While renowned musicians like Jake Shimabukuro and Feng E often play Tenor-sized ukuleles, a Soprano size is generally more suitable for young children. The best way to determine if a ukulele is the right size for you is by checking how comfortably you can play it while standing without a strap. If your fingers feel cramped within the fret space, the size might be too small. If you’re unsure, a Concert-sized ukulele is always a safe and versatile choice!
Pickup
Unlike the wide variety of acoustic guitar pickups, ukulele pickup options are more limited. This is mainly because ukuleles use nylon strings, making magnetic pickups unsuitable.
That said, most ukuleles that come with pre-installed pickup systems sound quite good! The days of poor-quality pickups are long gone. Some brands even offer innovative onboard effects—Enya, for example, has a system that adds effects like delay without requiring an external speaker. This advanced technology uses the instrument’s body as a resonator, enhancing the sound with built-in effects for a unique playing experience.
Tuning of the Ukulele
Although the ukulele shares a similar shape to the guitar, its tuning has a unique twist. Essentially, it matches the first four strings of a guitar with a capo on the 5th fret, which works well for playing in a more contemporary style—much like Jason Mraz in his hit song I’m Yours.
However, traditional ukulele tuning features a high G instead of a low G. This difference expands the instrument’s range and playability while giving it that signature Hawaiian sound.
Both tunings are widely used, but at Vinnie Classroom, we teach all our ukulele lessons using traditional high-G tuning.
Check out the classic video of Honoka & Azita with their masterful performance on the Ukulele
Body Shape of the Ukulele
One of the most exciting aspects of the ukulele is its variety of body shapes. While traditional designs work well, ukuleles can be crafted in almost any shape and style! The Pineapple ukulele is one of the most classic designs, but the Flying-V shape definitely stands out with its bold look.
However, choosing a Flying-V ukulele means you’ll likely have to play it while standing, as it’s not the most lap-friendly. Similarly, box-shaped ukuleles may look unique, but their sharp corners can be uncomfortable. Perhaps that’s why the classic figure-8 shape remains the most popular choice!
Budget
Ukulele ranges from SGD$50 to SGD$5000. The wide price range is due to a few factors.
Material – Solid wood with high grade cost more than laminated wood
Brand – Well-established brands will command a higher price as they can ensure quality and durability
Electronics – The price will naturally be higher for those models with built-in pickup systems. However, these systems are vital for performance.
Location – Buying the same Ukulele can have a slight difference in pricing. So do check with a few stores or online shops before making your purchase.
Conclusion
Choosing the right ukulele for your lessons in Singapore is essential for a comfortable and enjoyable learning experience. With various sizes, shapes, and features available, it’s important to find one that suits your playing style and needs. Whether you opt for a traditional figure-8 shape or something more unique, the key is to ensure it feels good in your hands and produces a sound you love. A well-chosen ukulele will not only enhance your lessons but also keep you motivated on your musical journey!
Taking Ukulele lessons can help you understand what Ukulele fits you best, consider taking a Trial Lesson with us! I am sure with our decade-long experience, we will be of valuable help to you. Contact us through these easy channels! 🙂
Pros of Learning the Electric Guitar First:
