If I Had $1,000,000: Ukulele

This arrangement captures the charm and approachability that made the original a cross-generational favorite, while the ukulele instrumentation lowers barriers for younger or beginning players. The five-page format suggests thoughtful melodic and harmonic detail rather than oversimplification, giving students a piece with real musical character to sink their teeth into.

Playful and warm, with the kind of earnest humor that invites a smile without winking at the audience. The ukulele's natural brightness pairs beautifully with the song's whimsical premise, creating an arrangement that feels both intimate and joyful.

Ukulele students ranging from early intermediate through advanced players, ensembles building contemporary repertoire, and classroom musicians looking for recognizable material that engages non-traditional performers. This works equally well for solo learning and small group performance.

• Nail the rhythmic pocket early in rehearsals. Pop arrangements live or die by groove consistency, so lock in the feel before worrying about dynamics or expression.
• Balance melody and accompaniment if you're covering both parts in a group setting. The ukulele works best when the harmonic layer sits underneath rather than competing for attention.
• Lean into the lyrical humor during performance. Barenaked Ladies thrive on a playful energy; let that personality show through your interpretation.

Consider pairing this with other contemporary pop or rock arrangements to round out a concert that reaches beyond classical and jazz standards. It also serves as an excellent gateway piece for students who initially resisted ukulele as an instrument, since they likely know the tune already.

• Reading and executing pop rhythmic figures and syncopation
• Balancing melodic phrasing with harmonic accompaniment
• Interpreting contemporary arrangement notation
• Performing with stylistic awareness and genre-appropriate feel