Arthur's Theme (Best That You Can Do): Ukulele

This arrangement captures the sophisticated harmonic language of Cross's original without demanding advanced technique, making it accessible for intermediate ukulele players. The two-page format moves quickly through the song, so students stay engaged while building confidence with pop repertoire that audiences actually recognize and enjoy.

Smooth, sophisticated, and effortlessly cool. The arrangement preserves the original's polished quality while remaining grounded in the ukulele's intimate, approachable character. There's something deeply satisfying about playing a song this well-known on an instrument known for being unpretentious.

Intermediate ukulele students who want to expand their repertoire beyond standard folk and Hawaiian material into recognizable popular songs. This works well for students transitioning from beginner methods into real-world performance situations.

• Shape the intro to establish the song's relaxed, sophisticated mood; resist the urge to rush through the opening phrase.
• Balance the vocal melody against any rhythmic accompaniment by keeping the tune warm and legible in the foreground.
• Pay attention to the natural phrasing at the ends of lines; allow small breaths where the lyrics would breathe to maintain conversational ease.
• Maintain steady, even rhythm in the accompaniment throughout, as the strength of the groove depends on consistency rather than dynamics.

Feature this in a pop music showcase or summer concert where ukulele students can share repertoire beyond traditional Hawaiian and folk standards. It also works as a solo number for an ensemble concert celebrating music from film and television.

• Reading and performing pop melody with vocal phrasing
• Coordinating fingerpicking or strumming accompaniment with melodic line
• Interpreting harmonic changes in a jazz-influenced chord progression
• Building confidence with recognizable repertoire for performance