Makin' Whoopee: Ukulele TAB

This collection captures the genuine sound of early jazz without requiring advanced technique or complex chord voicings. The arrangement choices honor the era's spirit while keeping the ukulele part approachable, making authentic jazz feel attainable rather than aspirational for players still building their foundation.

Stepping into a speakeasy where the energy is relaxed but never lazy. The melodies have sophistication and wit, the chords swing without pretension, and the whole affair feels like a conversation between old friends who know exactly what they're doing.

Ukulele players who know basic chord changes and want to explore jazz beyond folk or pop styles, whether they plan to sing along or accompany others. This book works for self-taught players and those in casual ensemble settings who want to sound historically grounded without heavy theory work.

• Lean into the strum patterns suggested in the notation. The rhythm itself carries the swing feel, so committing to the written strums matters more than speed.
• Study how the intros and turnarounds are voiced. These small touches, lifted directly from period recordings, teach you how real accompanists shaped these songs.
• Sing through the melodies before playing them. These standards were written for singers first; understanding the vocal line shapes how you voice the chords underneath.
• Pay attention to chord changes that anticipate the melody. Jazz-age harmony often moves a beat or two ahead of where a newer player might expect it.

Perfect for community ukulele circles, informal jam sessions, or school programs exploring American music history. One or two pieces work well in a casual variety concert, while the full collection could frame a themed evening celebrating the Jazz Age.

• Reading jazz chord symbols and voicings idiomatic to ukulele
• Executing rhythmic strum patterns that convey swing feel
• Recognizing and executing classic jazz intros, endings, and turnarounds
• Pairing melody with harmonic accompaniment in ensemble settings
• Connecting lyrics to melody phrasing and chord movement