TIME STAMPS (Skip ahead or go back) 0:24 About the channel 0:42 Plateau 1:07 Comparison 1:44 Perfectionism 2:32 Not performing 3:12 No Focus 3:53 Not memorising 4:43 Poor setup 5:46 Learning Sequence 7:02 Impostor Syndrome 8:40 Fear 9:24 Join this community
Okay my fear of not being able to memorize as a senior just got trashed. I’m on the 30 Day Ukulele Challenge. I can now play and sing You Are My Sunshine. Now that I’ve done that I’m freaked out how well I can play if I know the song by heart. I get the joy of listening to it too.
Bernadette ! 1st let me say I have been somewhat playing the Uke for at lest a yr now and I can relate to the comparison, I sing lead in a small trio group with two acoustic guitar players and often wanted to b able to play guitar or ukelele and sing , which will happen😊 2nd focus. Anyhow may I say I have listen to many teachers online and by far u are the best ! Your teaching is way above board.Being transparent is a good thing it keeps us humble. You r good at why u do !🎶😎😇
Well. I just ordered a new Ohana Tenor, as the ukadelic saprano that I bought my kids feels too small. So I hope to continue learning. Thanks you for explaining about your 30 day challenge to learn in the right order. I will certainly be following that series. I also have taken your advice in choosing a ukulele. Enya seems to be your favorite, and I looked at them, but I didn't care for the flowers on the fret board. So I chose Ohana based on other channel reviews. Thank you for your channel, I am learning a lot from you.
I am a 60 year old grandma. My mother and several others in her family were musicians. I LOVE music, and want to play SOMETHING so badly! I have enough musical instruments in my house to start my own band and I cannot play any of them! BUT! Because of your EXCELLENT teachings, I am starting to play the ukulele thats been sitting in my closet since 2020. THANK YOU so much!
Miss B, I don't know if this helps but you absolutely deserve the audience you have. I've met a few people who have a Uke but only know 1 or 2 songs and hardly pick it up. My immediate recommendation every time is for them to start from the beginning with your 30 day challenge, just like I did. I follow a few tutorial channels here on TH-cam but nowhere have I seen such a thorough and sequential lesson series that takes you from knowing nothing to actually playing songs and feeling confident. Sometimes when I'm following along and the tempo is too fast, you have a way of knowing how many times is necessary to repeat until I get it. You offer extra encouragement when the chords are tough. You have a sense of empathy for the struggles of others that some of the other teachers (even the ones I like a lot) don't have to the same extent. Yours was the first channel I ever set notifications on for thanks to your multi-day challenges. I wouldn't be half as good as I am now if it weren't for you. Thank you for all your hard work.
Stephen Lee I told her once that there has to be some witchcraft involved cus she knows exactly when to say “ok that didn’t feel right let’s do this again” or “you can do this, pause the video do it a couple of times and come back” hahaha but it’s amazing to feel that connection! Loved your comment I agree and relate with everything you’ve said! Good ukings for you!
@@thespas9678 I like it when she she says "Put your ukulele down and look up, watch my hands.....Look up!". She knows I'm slipping in a few sneaky strums LOL
MARIA JACKSON hahahahah I knooow I like those bits too! But I’m a teacher too so usually when she says to put it down and look I usually do it 🤪 but I imagine everyone else still trying hahaha that’s what my students always do 🤗 but I love it means we are eager to try and she’s eager for us to learn it well! Perfection!
MARIA JACKSON don’t feel bad!! That’s actually hilarious it means avengers to you hahahahaha it only proves she’s a real teacher! Students talk back sometimes when they get frustrated and specially when the teacher is right
I know this is an older video, but my goodness, you have been an absolute postive force in my life and made me really fall in love with playing music again. Thank you so much for building this community and making music accessible and fun. I went through your 30 day ukelele challenge and am so so thankful! I’m excited to now be a part of your patreon community and recommend it to all my friends!
BERNADETTE, YOU LISTEN TO ME PLEASE You were so, so instrumental (pun unintended) to me while I was learning how to play the ukulele, and I'm confident there are thousands of people who wouldn't be where are they are right now with their uke if it weren't for you. You have no idea how much you mean to all of us. You're going above and beyond to help us all, and I'm very sorry that you feel like that sometimes. You aren't a fraud by any means, and we appreciate you so much. Thank you for taking the time out of your life to help us become better musicians. This video was so raw yet helpful, and I'm so glad you decided to make it. We all care about you so much and think you're one of the best teachers out there. Thank you for everything, and I hope you always keep playing music. 💜
I'm 72 and determined to learn how to play the ukelele. I have played the piano so understand most of music. I find that your videos are the best on TH-cam. They have already helped me immensely. Thank you.
You are definitely not doing any kind of fraud or something.... You are just teaching an art to thousands of people who are passionate.❤ And don't worry we love you ... You are my uku mentor ❤❤
comparison is the thief of joy, I choose to keep the joy , thanks, I needed your insight, its good to know we are not alone in feelings we never share... maria from Annapolis,, p.s. there is a ukeannapolis meeting at edgewater library Saturday jan 19 from 1 till 4 if anyone is in the area you are welcome to stop by
As others have mentioned, you deserve all of your success. Much of it is due to your openness and vulnerability. Sharing your emotions and letting us see "behind the scenes" makes you real to others and they feel that they know you personally and love you for all that you do. Your generosity is inspirational and your teaching is first class. Keep up the good work and know that we all love and appreciate you.💖☮👍
I find it so upsetting that someone so talented could feel not deserving of their talent or the business they have built because of their talent. This community built your channel to what it is, BUT your talent, sincerity, qualifications, and effort is what built the foundation on which we rely on. I, for one, have never doubted you or your abilities. I feel as though you are my friend. I trust you. Thank you for this video! I'm feeling more motivated already!
Your honesty about your impostor syndrome is exactly why you have this community. You're a great teacher. My daughter and i have learned a lot from you. Thank you.
Good advice, Bernadette! So glad you revisited this topic. Also, don't be so hard on yourself. I think you're amazing! :) I LOVE the honesty though! Honesty won't steer you wrong, and I appreciate how you speak openly to your audience. Thanks, Bernadette!
I so needed to hear this!! It brought me to tears. I struggle with some of the same issues. Just remember. You are where you are suppose to be and helping people like me. I am too overwhelmed with some of the “better teachers”. The ability to teach is a rare gift. You have that gift! Thank you for not quitting!!! I still go back and watch some of your basic lessons. Timeless!
I began my ukulele journey because I love music. Ukulele seemed like it would be simple fun and mostly, do-able. I bought one uke and shortly after, bought a second. A tenor first,; then a soprano. You, Bernadette, have been the ONE who have been my favorite GO-TO person for my adventure! I am a retired art teacher. I know how to teach. You are the best. Others are trying, but they are not doing the teaching the way it needs to be done. Thank you for doing this! Fight the negativity... we know where that comes from (a hot place which smells like smoke and sulfur)..😉 Keep up the good work... I will eventually show you my progress...❤️
You are super nice. I have been trying to learn for almost one year and often get frustrated too. Here is a link to a friend's video. th-cam.com/video/4Lj5KFQDnSM/w-d-xo.html Best wishes, Bob
Me: I cycle through finger style steel string (Travis/Doc Watson) guitar, nylon (classical) guitar, banjo and ukulele. This keeps me from advancing as far as I could if I would stick to one instrument and style. I realize this but I don't mind. I play for pleasure - my goal is enjoyment, advancement is secondary so I won't quit any of these and I may decide to bring another instrument into the mix. You: You are a PROFESSIONAL! You have chosen to teach and I will tell you that you are the most professional teacher I have ever observed. Your extensive preparation is recognized and appreciated by all of us who subscribe to your channel. You have a beautiful voice, personality and disposition so please let me assure you that you deserve the size of your channel and you will see it grow because you are a professional teacher in every sense of the word. Just keep being you. Thanks for everything you do!
Bernadette I am a new learner,, at 65 yrs. young I'm just now interested in making music, you so inspire me!! Thanks, and what you explained about why people quit,,, this process is like life. You are worthy my dear!! for sharing your insights into so many things of life.
Imposter syndrome is what kept me from teaching private lessons for so long. I am not Advanced but I have enough skills to teach others what I know. Because of your videos I decided to step out and begin teaching lessons. I love the quote "When you learn teach, when you get give" by Maya Angelou. It keeps me going! I don't have to know it all to be an effective teacher and when I learn something new I need to share it. You are fabulous and the type of teacher a lot of us need. When you learn you share, when you get you give and I and many other music teachers are so grateful..May God continue to bless you and this channel. You are fantastic!
Bernadette, I get so much from your videos. You are in no way a fraud. My personal challenges are two: achieving a good strumming sound, especially on the up strums, and remembering chords I’ve learned. I can get around the first, until I learn how to strum, by using a pick. The second, though, is a matter of age. I’m 65. I’ll learn a chord, then encounter it the next day and it’s like I’ve never seen it before. So I have to keep learning and learning it until it’s internalized.
I've just started the 30 days challenge. My 5 years old daughter got an ukelele for christmas, nobody in the family play and we have the necessity to learn just to teach her a little bit before we can find an ukelele's teacher nearby. So my husband and I are new members of the ukelele's 30 days challenge. We will take care not to fall on those recommendations. Keep going and thank you so much for your help on this, you are so great!
Oh Berni!!!!!! You are amazing and I feel (even though I have never met you) you are one of the most genuine, caring and smart people I have seen especially when it comes to caring about your viewers and learning the ukulele. My biggest fear is thinking I cannot sing well enough to continue playing the uke. I am a part of a uke group in my local community and we have many opportunities to get up on stage to sing and play and it totally freaks me out. My original teacher always tried to encourage me as she says I am a great player but I guess it is the self doubt of myself and fear of singing out of key or tune that scares me the most. When I watch your tutorials I see myself sometimes and you should be so proud of yourself being able to put yourself out there to so many people and help them be the best they can be on ukulele. I for one am very grateful for your presence. You go girl 🤙💪👊🏼❤️
I really liked this video! very sincere, emotional and encouraging. I think you almost cried when you confessed about the personal sabotage syndrome ... do not worry about those feelings, you are very good at what you do and you have almost 100,000 people who always remind you with their likes, their comments and their shares. you are excellent and little by little you will be improving more and more and more! in my case, I think I have lived several times in which I practically let my fears stop me ... in my opinion, the most dangerous are: compare yourself with others and sabotage us by thinking that we are not good or that we are a fiasco. It's hard to deal with those feelings..
WOW!!!!!! “Coach”, i think this is by far - YOUR BEST YOU-TUBE EVER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! So transparent......So open.......So SINCERE💕💕💕. Especailly the way you shared reasons that even YOU yourself would want to quit. (Thank you for doing that❤️) I could totally relate at each point you mentioned. Because of your teaching - (compared to my attempts from other channels....) - i have been able to play my MOST FAVORITE SONGS:....”What a Wonderful World”.....”Hallelujah”.....”House of the Rising Sun”......”Can’t Help Falling in Love”.......”Stand by me”......”Somewhere Over the Rainbow”........and ”Have you ever seen the rain” (which was your 1st song Tutorial).......**I cannot play any of these songs on my guitars........But i can on my Uke.......I’ve been taking my Ukulele to Family/Social Gatherings........I start PLAYING......because I CAN now......and i loooooove PLAYING.......THANKS “COACH”👏👏👏 (This is why you DESERVE this channel - you’re a teacher.....and you taught me). I suffered loss in 2017 - The UKULELE has been a WONDERUL outlet of JOY😍😍😍. 🤔Love the point you talked about re Memorizing. Will try to do that in 2019🤔. My #1 purpose to play an instrument is the COGNITIVE Benefits - Memorizing is KEY. *This LESSON is sooooo POWERFUL. Wonder if you should play it twice a year.......Definitely Once-a-year because you cover Very Important Points......e.g that a person can quit at an Advanced level.........Hope i never quit.....After watching this........I Promise i never will❤️. Thanks again “COACH”❤️ You are so SPOT ON!!!!!! with what you teach in this video🎉🎉🎉
Oh dearest Bernadette, you deserve every bit of success you have! Don’t doubt yourself! You are kind, you are strong, you are sincere, and you are an incredible person! Can’t say enough good about you, and you need to believe it! Can I tell you the reason I see most of my students quit ukulele (and other instruments), lots of them perceive that it will be “easy” to learn, and then when they realize it’s more challenging than they thought, they quit. This usually happens at the first roadblock they face, no matter what it is. Don’t doubt your success, you are not an imposter, you are a teacher, and you are teaching us great things! You are a teacher, and you are building a community! These are all things good teachers do. Have a joyous day sweet girl! (Leah not Anna;-)
Bernadette, It is so easy to doubt oneself. Staying the course can be difficult, especially when only you and those closest to you know what you are feeling. You wear your emotions on your sleeve and people love you for it. Never try to be something you are not. Never try to be what you think people want you to be for you would be wrong. People initially tune in for many reasons but come back for only one, it’s because you are you. Someday TH-cam will be over and when you look back it’s important to know you did your best, you were true to your values and you made a difference. Take care, Wes
I have the ' no focus ' problem, when im learning a new song i just learn most of the times the first part of the song and then move on to another song. I definitely need to get better on this. Awesome video btw ♥
I started playing my ukulele at 38 years old and I am afraid I started too late in life to get really good. I think about it every time I sit down to play my ukulele.
Same here. I was a few weeks shy of 39 when I started. I think about the same thing. I then play some of my favorite songs and think about how far I've come. Do it because you love it. Not because of how good you are or want to be.
The first time I came home and wanted to start playing Ukulele but no person made it easy for me to understand YOU were there. You have a talent, you're amazing, I belive that you deserve so much more. Xoxo Sending strong hugs 2 u from mexico💜
You seem like the sweetest and most kind person. Don’t give up teaching on TH-cam because there’s other teachers that do differently; everyone learns a little different. While one person teaches something you may have a even the smallest hint of a difference teaching something that maybe 50% of others couldn’t pick up from another teacher. I love to sing but can’t; I love music even more and learning an instrument is a great gift! Thanks for your videos I’ve learned a lot in just one week!! (My daughter got a ukulele that she asked for for Christmas but she’s not showing much interest but I’m loving it lol)
A reason why I still play ukulele today is because I watch your videos! In your song tutorials, you take it very slow so beginner like me 2 years ago can actually have the feeling of success that they learned a song! Thank you for continuing your TH-cam channel to encourage people to keep playing ukulele!
Much of this seems to apply to me. Toss in some major health problems and it’s easy to become discouraged. Instead, I’ve just decided to take a break. I can always come back to playing the ukulele and given a little time I think I will. Thanks for your encouragement.
Immediately related to the video just from the first reason. I will do my best to continue playing the ukulele for a long time though :) by the way, please don't feel like you're not worth this channel. You are one of the greatest ukulele teachers in this community, I mostly learn from your videos not others. You're doing your job well and I hope you keep it that way. ❤
I identified with many of your comments. I'm autistic but my diagnosis came years after my personality had become set in stone. Perfectionism and fear of failure go hand in hand with me. If I am not perfect I am no good. If I make a mistake I am a failure. This leads to me being totally stressed rather than relaxing and just enjoying the music. My defense mechanism over the years has been to ridicule myself before others got the chance to, but people who constantly put themselves down don't end up with many friends (even worse if like me you have weird obsessions). Sore fingertips or not, I'm going to watch more of your videos now. Thank you. xxx
Please don't quit. I have just restarted playing the ukulele that I have had for over 10 years. I put it away because I couldn't get past the callous stage of learning. I have just stated to watch your videos and i find your voice calming, encouraging and reassuring. Your enthusiasm for the instrument is infectious and you are not a fraud. You are authentic and that is why people are down to your channel. Looking forward to learning more with you.
I love your how sincere you are Bernadette, I don't think any of us could see you as fraud. You always kept in real and I think you've always been authentic to who you are. Whether it sharing bits and pieces of yourself through your videos and videos like this where you share your own struggle and insecurities. Your videos are truly insightful.
Your videos are genuine and inspiring. I fall into a couple of those reasons but haven't given up yet, but am taking things slower than I would like. Watching your videos encourages me to continue. Please don't ever stop.
#1 reason to keep playing ukulele; Having Bernadette as a teacher. She is by far, the best teacher for beginners. She teaches in a way to make it easy to understand. And she also throws in some challenges to help you advance your skills. She makes her channel educational, interesting, entertaining, and just fun to watch. She has great guests and brings in her husband sometimes who is funny too. You will be at 100,000 subscribers very soon. And you get that because you are very good at what you do.... ;) Wishing you and your husband a Happy New Year.....
Great post today, about reasons to stop playing. Well organized & presented. Everyone has that imposter syndrome inside them, you’ve got to learn to bury it to grow & continue. (I’ve been practicing architecture for 35 years and that syndrome still surfaces but, as I’m not forcing myself on anyone, It’s easy enough to ignore) Students will always advance beyond their teachers, but that is testimony to the effectiveness of the teacher. Life would be much less wonderful if the ukulele teachers were all top singers. You sing way better than most of us and that’s okay. I can’t sing a note myself but started sending my family & friends singing ukulele birthday videos since I started learning uke with you about a year ago. It’s all good. You’re a wonderful teacher! Thanks for this important post.
Excellent video. I never knew there was a actual name for number 9! I experience it with art, singing and playing ukulele . It keeps me from doing those things... However, I am learning that I must do what I love and not care so much what others think. Easier said then done😉 The real reason I am writing is to say YOU are a gifted teacher. That’s your gift and you give it away every day. Like all wonderful teachers your other gift is encouragement! You can’t be one without the other! Thank you for all you do and for giving of yourself to all of us. There is no greater gift than that. The Lord has made you this way for a purpose. Keep running with it. You go girl! PS I found this video very helpful! Thank you!!!😘
I originally wanted to start playing ukelele because my husband and I moved to hawaii In March (he is also in the navy) and I became mesmerized with the instrument. My husband and I have been trying to have a baby for over 2 years now, and after treatments and procedures, still nothing. So, me being a crazy person, I thought that playing the uke could be something I could do when I'm pregnant, and play for a baby, and then something that I could take away from the island that would always be with me, that I could teach to our kids. And then my brain starts spinning, like, "what if I was the cool mom who played the happy birthday song on the ukelele for birthday parties...and Christmas traditions of singing Christmas songs together, and all that mushy gushy stuff!" So my fear, I guess, is that what if I never get pregnant, i don't want to avoid and despise the instrument because I establish it with children and family. But then it goes the other way to I cant sing. and what if I dont get good enough to want to play and sing and teach my children. I've loved our time in Hawaii so far and learning and loving this instrument, and I don't want to lose this beautiful part of the culture here, that I've had to pleasure of learning from you. Now that my deep dark ramblings are over... I just want to say thank you! You truly are a bright presence in the community and a great teacher!
I'm 68, just retired, and just got a ukulele - I'm waiting for it to arrive. I'm so thankful I found you. You are such an inspiration and so reassuring. I'm now subscribed to your channel and feel blessed to have found you. Thank you so much for the gift of you. 🙂
On action, a luthier or guitar tech can help, but a third alternative is a player who has done setups on his or her own instruments. Most good ukuleles can be made quite playable by doing three things: lowering the saddle, filing the nut and leveling the frets. A caveat: filing the nut and leveling the frets requires some very specific tools (NOT a nail file and NOT a sanding block!), so if your helpful friend does not have those, stay clear. But, I frequently set up ukes for friends, and show them how as I do it. It saves them a little time and money, and it helps me to stay in practice, as setting up is a perishable skill. So, ask when you go to jams. Chances are good that you’ll find someone who can correct the action on your uke in less than half an hour.
Bernadette, you're a great teacher! My wife is learning ukulele as a complete beginner and is picking up many things. I'm a guitarist of many years and I'm learning for fun & to help my wife learn. I think someday I may take up the tenor uke (with a low G) to be a uke player like a guitarist capo'ed at the 5th fret. I'm guilty of no/low focus and have stalled many times on plateaus in my many years of guitar playing. Today, I encouraged my wife to go through your full 30-day challenge. Thank you for all your videos on TH-cam!
WOW!!! finally had time to watch this. I have so many mixed emotions right now. Happy knowing not alone in having all the stated anxieties or sad as you hit the nail on the head. I have been frustrated, doubted my progress and questioned where to go from where I am. Your videos and challenges have given me direction and focus. What an amazingly genuine person you are Bernadette. Seriously thank you!!!!! (and Jose) without your help I would have a Ukulele hanging on the wall as a glorified decoration. You have given me a love for playing this instrument. I still have frustrations when playing and a lot of anxiety on posting the challenges you offer but "Eat the Frog" and do it.
Hi Bernadette, I’ve been playing for a year and I know I wouldn’t be as far ahead as I am without your lessons-keep up the great work-l really appreciate everything you do
Fear of rejection, negative and mean comments can also be demeaning! Especially for a perfectionist also makes it difficult to put yourself out there! 😞
Bernadette, you have encouraged and taught me and my three children (ages 8, 11 and 13) to learn the ukulele. We loved your videos from the first one we saw. We love the Beatles, and enjoyed your challenge (although we can't play all the music yet). I can identify with impostor syndrome and I understand the fear. I have tried to learn different instruments from the time I was a little kid and never persevered, and often feel like a failure musically because of it. I also sing but have shelved it for a long time. It's so true that comparison is the thief of joy. And when you try to do something about the goals you have always had, then all the other reasons why it won't work try to stop you from going ahead - including the idea that you are not talented enough compared to everyone else. All this to say, please keep on persevering with the lessons on your channel. When I was little, I completely dreaded my piano lessons. You make playing the ukulele fun and attainable. The beauty of the ukulele is that you can gain wins quickly, and that encourages you to keep going. You teach it so well. I appreciate you speaking so openly about your feelings. It makes me realize that I should keep pushing forward, because I experience the same thing. You are the last person on earth that should feel like you are not talented enough or don't deserve the success. Thank you for the wonderful work you put out there. We are so grateful for it, and for being four of your students.
Woah this was actually very insightful! I have finished the 30-day challenge and I am so happy with my simple accomplishment. I never knew that my perfectionism would actually harm me! I don't know if it's just because I'm just beginning with ukulele, but every time I almost fall into the plateau stage, I always grab my ukulele and just play random chord progressions. I am glad my curiosity kept me going. Also, the printable totally helped me (it added on more info alongside the video's info). Dang! I think I might have a small case of imposter syndrome only due to the fact that sometimes, I just feel my accomplishments aren't as amazing as others perceive it to be. Thank you so much for this video!
Jenny Chen I’m sure you are amazing, I think that everyone who finishes the 30 day challenge is, if you think about it, all you know now, where you were and where you’re at, it’s amazing! Just keep at it! 💪
Dear Bernadette, you are the best ukulele teacher, you are a true educator. Remember that some of the best teachers in life are not impresarios who perform to huge audiences, you understand the teaching PROCESS and you are wonderful, I have followed you almost from yo7r beginning listening to your tips and thoughts, thank you so much for being a wonderful teacher. 😍
Thank you Bernadette for all you do to share the " joy" of learning Ukulele! 😊 As an Elementary Music Specialist for 25 years now I find you very inspiring as you share how to play. As I teach Beginning Strings (Uke/Guitar), Woodwinds (Ocarina/Recorder) and Percussion (World Drums + Buckets!) to young musicians in K-8 I hope to inspire them to choose an instrument that they enjoy and begin their adventure in music making. Your passion for sharing and teaching Ukulele is very evident! Also...as a Vocal Music Educator I would encourage you to "stop" saying you are are not a good singer. Take some time to develop your singing voice like you do your Uke....I think you can excel there also! Honestly, I also find it difficult to sing with the same quality as I play Uke...hard to focus on both. Maybe rehearse separately then put together? Anyway...keep strumming and sharing! You are a blessing!! 😆😆😆
Omg! You totally hit the nail on the head! As a music educator and instructor people assume that we are experts in everything music related when that’s not always the case. Being a vocalist I struggled learning instruments and over time developed my skills a little at a time, but now I feel everyone expects me to be an expert on those instruments which couldn’t be further from the truth. Thank you for sharing and for allowing me to see that I am not alone. 😊
I love this video and your pure honesty. You are my favorite teacher of all the teachers I have had over the years. It was you who got me excited about learning how to play the ukulele and having fun. My biggest hurdle to jump over is the fear of failure because I’m a perfectionist. However, you have helped me to calm down about it and learn to love the ukulele. Even though I am a beginner and make mistakes, I have found that “she” sings to me which puts me in a happier place and I have you thank for it. Thank you again for being you and for teaching us.
Bernadette, You are an excellent teacher. I have some experience as a teacher myself and some experience evaluating other teachers so I can speak with authority here and assure you that you are not an impostor, but the real deal. You know how to break things down and explain them in a way that people will understand. You also know the problems that learners will experience when they attempt each skill and you point out how to solve those problems. I think one of the problems with music instruction is that there are a lot of people who are excellent musicians who teach as a way to supplement their income, but they really aren't very good teachers or very interested in teaching others.
You are clearly a great teacher, I have two Master’s degrees one in organ performance and another one in music ed and you are the best resource I’ve found for learning how to play ukulele. I think not having students you can hear and having the immediate feed back that other teachers have when teaching may be why you have some doubt. I recommend you to all of my students who get a ukulele of their own. Please continue, one thing that you did not mention is in my experience is that kids want to give up right away because they can not play after one or two tries, music takes years to really get good at and a lot of practice and perseverance, which is not common in today’s society. If they can not accomplish it quickly they do not want to keep trying and want to do something else. The instant gratification syndrome.
Dear Bernadette, your succsess is being close to us ordinary people. I don't have time nor will for Gurus or You tube "divinity" from whom I could learn more or better. That is why I choose you and one of your female colleagues. Sometimes less is more, I'm dooing just fine with you in only four months and I keep being involved. Keep going girl, your path is clear andy shiny!!! :*
Hello, Bernadette! Thank you for your insightful, instructional videos. Having recently bought my first ukulele, I've subscribed to about 6 channels with ukulele tutorials. But I find myself coming back to yours most often because you always add your valuable insights into your lessons, which other channels cannot provide. I'm sure it has to do with the fact that you are a certified music teacher, but also because you care about your students, and that empathy comes through in your teaching. Your empathy motivates you to share insights, like the "10 Reasons" in this video. Your videos are a gift. So, thank you so very much for being here and sharing your knowledge!
Hi Miss B, I’m Alice from Malaysia. I’ve always wanted to learn how to play the ukulele but never had the confidence as I’m already 55 years old. I watched so many TH-cam tutorials and I found you. I took up the 30 days Challenge, printed out your printable notes, made myself a corner. And now after a few weeks, I just can’t stop playing. I would like to thank you for making all the videos. Without your videos, I don’t know when I will pick up a ukulele. Great job, Miss B. Give yourself a pat on the back. 👏👏👏
I feel very called out by this video, nearly all the reasons apply to me, and not only for the ukulele, often for instruments or sports or just hobbies I've done and given up before. Thank you for this incredibly honest video, I think it's gonna spark a lot of interesting conversation. It's so important to share the uncomfortable things too.
Lu Bold hey you are amazing! You may feel all of this but tell your brain to go (insert swear word here) himself! You’re brilliant and an amazing part of all this experience! 😘
Oh my gosh, HOW are you in my head??? This was a timely video, as just a few days ago I was doing a little pouty tantrum, because I thought my playing was too loud, and crappy and buzzy, and I wanted to practice but didn't want anyone to hear me and sometimes I didn't want to hear me, and my hubby was saying I was doing fine and to keep going, and I wasn't sure I wanted to but he got me this nice Uke for Christmas and what if I disappoint him.....SIGH. So I sit down today after a couple days break and go to your channel and here it is.....your Message Of Wisdom! Thank you for your encouragement. You are fantastic!
Well I experienced some of the things you talk about and I can definitely relate to the feeling of quitting (not just ukulele but things in general). I think the fact that you opened up and talked about your feelings and fears makes you an even better teacher! I love what you're doing and I learned almost everything I know about uke through your channel, so a big THANK YOU Bernadette! ❤ Never doubt your talent and competence and keep on helping people to find happiness through music!
Thank you for this honest video! I kind of am the no focus person, but somehow it goes on and I am making progress, yay! But I have to confess that I've learned two complete songs for christmas :D
Dear Bernadette, please know that you are a wonderful teacher! We are so lucky that you are here for us. ❤️ This video nearly brought me to tears because I, too, have experienced all of these feelings while trying to learn. Thank you for bringing this to light and giving us ways to overcome these feelings. You always seem to know just what to say to help us, your students. 😊
Hi Ms B., I’m a ukulele beginner from Hong Kong, and this is my first time leaving a comment on TH-cam 🤗 Just would like to say a good teacher may not be the most skilful one (vice versa usually), but the one who has a great mind to observe and think carefully from beginners’ perspectives. Many experienced players could have forgot the difficulties beginners may face, but you’ve been doing it very well. I learned chucking from your video cuz you know what exactly confuse beginners and use slow pace and shots from different angles to explain in details, which is rarely seen on TH-cam. Thank you so much for your generous sharing and I’ll keep following you ❤️
This is so helpful, I'm totally a number 1. Oooh no, no, no! You deserve to be here, you have worked so hard, and a lot of people don't know the skill and time it takes behind the scenes. You have encouraged and helped and inspired soooo many people! I am so thankful for you, all of your talents and knowledge! Your most humble student, Darla :)
Ukulele is synonymous with lightness and peace of mind, so absorb that and don't think you're a fraud... think that you're giving your best, helping people reach their own level of personal skill. Thank you for your words of wisdom!
Thank you for this! I am guilty of at least 6 reasons! But...I don't want to quit. Ive been playing for about 2 months. I am so thankful for your 30 day challenge. That's where I started. I love how you explain the basics so well such as holding the uke and how to properly form chords. You're my favorite teacher! 😊
I can relate to so many of the points you have listed. You are really brave for being open about this subject. I have dealt and will forever deal with selfdoubt. So much that I often doubt it whether someone speaks the truth when they give me a compliment. Especially omparison causes me to be harsh and not satisfied with myself. I truly believe that you deserve the size of this channel. The growth that the channel has been through doesn’t happen overnight. It happens through dedication and hard work and having a beautiful soul like yours. And you ARE a talented ukulele teacher. Just think about the amount of people that have learned to play the uke with the help of your videos! I would have never come this far without you as my teacher.
Maybe you are not a perfect player - I can't say it as I'm just a bit better than a beginner - but it doesn't matter. You taught me - and others - who did not know anything the basics and with your kind personality and you step by step challenges you made me keep going. My problem is the plateau... If I want to play a a new song it is not a problem. There are many songs I can play with the chords I'm able to play. But I want more... some finger pickings, some different strumming patterns... some days I find some on my own and am really proud. Sometimes I can't figure out how to make it more interessting and then I'm frustrated. But nothing makes me more calm down tgan playing my Uke
Great video! And one I’m sure we all can relate to. I used to experience imposter syndrome a lot. (I never knew there was a name for it.) Especially in my career as a music therapist. The music therapy program where I went to college was kind of at a crossroads at the time. It lacked quality instructors and real life experiences. As a result, I really had to kind of teach myself techniques through trial and error and observing other music therapists after I graduated. I’m kind of over it now because I realized that if you are constantly trying to hide your weaknesses, you cannot work on them. So my solution was to be realistic and get to know myself- my strengths and my shortcomings. I try my best to be comfortable with that. Unapologetic even. And that leaves me space to ask questions about things I don’t know, work on my shortcomings and embrace my strengths. ❤️
I mainly find myself wanting to play less if I'm not involved with learning something. That's why your ukulele challenges are a great resource because it gives me something to work on and achieve
I quited ukulele not just because I didnt want to play, its because I had no time and because of my mental inless. But I decided to keep going. I bought a better ukulele and I will start playing it again :) Its a really fun instrument and I really enjoy it.
Thank you so much for not quitting. Honestly you are good at teaching ukulele and I like your voice whenever you hum while teaching it sounds peaceful. I have seriously learned a lot from your videos. I will re-watch this video whenever I feel like quitting ukulele to remind myself not to quit. I had quit my art for almost a year due to this imposter syndrome combined with comparing to others. Strength to you for continuing this good work and we are grateful. 💙
I love love love this vid. One challenge i do experience is when my hands get sweaty while playing esp. when i try to make a cover. It could be disappointing but i can't continue learning if i stop just because of it. You deserve what you have right now Miss B. You taught me how to play - someone who has a fear of playing instruments for a readon that i might not learn just like what happened when i was in High school. I got a guitar, bought it from my savings. I never learned how to play to the point that my guitar was borrowed and never returned. My guitar being stolen did not bother me, what traumatized me was the fact that i did not learn. After 13 years i realized i still wanted to play an instrument and thought maybe an uke would be better because i have small hands. In a nut shell i watched your tutorials Miss B even before getting an Uke and now i am starting to learn songs and playing it on Uke wholeheartedly ~ you are one of the reasons i overcame that fear and crushed it because now i can play 😊
Bernadette You are an excellent teacher! It is so easy to doubt your own gifts when you really care about your subject. I taught middle school band for almost 25 years and was always learning new things about my craft. If you ever feel like you know it all, you will cease to be a good teacher. You are approachable and honest. You give solid skills and reasons why things should be done a certain way. Your instruction is multi-layered and you give so many helps along the way. You make learning the ukulele fun. You are an excellent teacher.
Dina, thank you so much. Wow, middle school band for 25 years?! Your heart must be full of beautiful memories. And your students must have fond memories of their time in the band room. ❤️❤️
As a beginner i get you.. other people compare themselves to me.. since i dont have any experience in other instrument.. i feel discouraged.. they say i dont know how to stum.. etc.. but its fine.. i will keep on going because i love the feeling when i play with my ukulele..
Your videos are so easy to follow, I've recommended them to friends are thinking about learning or whose children are starting to learn at school. Your success is definitely not down to luck, you are good at what you do. The pace of your tutorials are great too.
You are a great teacher. Not being the best at something isn’t always the way to go. Me and my wife watch your videos over anyone else because of your down to earth approachable technic. We hope you never stop teaching!
Thank you for all you do, to help the rest of us!! You're not a fraud, you're very talented and on a higher level than the majority of us, that come here to learn from you!! So again... THANK YOU! ❤️
I experienced plateau a few months ago. 😔I couldn't find any thing new to learn on guitar. Just played old songs every day. 😞 Now I finally recovered and am learning some fingerstyle. ❤️ Ms. B, you are so talented in teaching ukulele. Your explanations are always soo clear. And your ukulele playing is out of the world. 😍😍😍Please don't feel that way. Have confidence in yourself. 😊😊😊 I almost freaked out when you said you had imposter syndrome. 😱😱😱
You are sooo talented Bernadette! I am so happy you decided to make this Chanel. You are such a great teacher and I learned so much from you the little bit of time I started playing the ukulele.
Bernadette, Great video! I appreciate the fact that you are able to call out your students who place roadblocks to their learning. I am guilty of a number of your reasons why people quit Ukulele, and its good to challenge myself to overcome this mental roadblocks. I really appreciate your videos and all of the hard work that it takes to create this awesome TH-cam channel. You are a very good instructor! Remember a good teacher must be a subject matter expert and they have to be able to relate to their students. If one of these components is missing than learning will not take place. Your channel is very informative, information is disseminated, and the instructor (you) has a fantastic ability to relate to her students. Keep up the great work and thank you for helping me along this journey.
Thank you for sharing! I've got the poor setup going right now. Hoping to remedy soon. But I appreciate all of these because I could see falling into some of these. Hopefully I can recognize these and make a change.
![SAFEPLANET - ดาวเคราะห์ [ THE PLANET ]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/4X1XL3I_k3c/mqdefault.jpg)
TIME STAMPS
(Skip ahead or go back)
0:24 About the channel
0:42 Plateau
1:07 Comparison
1:44 Perfectionism
2:32 Not performing
3:12 No Focus
3:53 Not memorising
4:43 Poor setup
5:46 Learning Sequence
7:02 Impostor Syndrome
8:40 Fear
9:24 Join this community
Lu Bold, thanks for the time stamps. Proves you got Focus 😊
Wow,, you are so deep!
Okay my fear of not being able to memorize as a senior just got trashed. I’m on the 30 Day Ukulele Challenge. I can now play and sing You Are My Sunshine. Now that I’ve done that I’m freaked out how well I can play if I know the song by heart. I get the joy of listening to it too.
Bernadette ! 1st let me say I have been somewhat playing the Uke for at lest a yr now and I can relate to the comparison,
I sing lead in a small trio group with two acoustic guitar players and often wanted to b able to play guitar or ukelele and sing , which will happen😊 2nd focus. Anyhow may I say I have listen to many teachers online and by far u are the best ! Your teaching is way above board.Being transparent is a good thing it keeps us humble. You r good at why u do !🎶😎😇
Well. I just ordered a new Ohana Tenor, as the ukadelic saprano that I bought my kids feels too small. So I hope to continue learning. Thanks you for explaining about your 30 day challenge to learn in the right order. I will certainly be following that series. I also have taken your advice in choosing a ukulele. Enya seems to be your favorite, and I looked at them, but I didn't care for the flowers on the fret board. So I chose Ohana based on other channel reviews. Thank you for your channel, I am learning a lot from you.
Not a fraud. Best ukulele channel I have ever found. Don't ever quit.
I am a 60 year old grandma. My mother and several others in her family were musicians. I LOVE music, and want to play SOMETHING so badly! I have enough musical instruments in my house to start my own band and I cannot play any of them! BUT! Because of your EXCELLENT teachings, I am starting to play the ukulele thats been sitting in my closet since 2020. THANK YOU so much!
Miss B, I don't know if this helps but you absolutely deserve the audience you have. I've met a few people who have a Uke but only know 1 or 2 songs and hardly pick it up. My immediate recommendation every time is for them to start from the beginning with your 30 day challenge, just like I did. I follow a few tutorial channels here on TH-cam but nowhere have I seen such a thorough and sequential lesson series that takes you from knowing nothing to actually playing songs and feeling confident. Sometimes when I'm following along and the tempo is too fast, you have a way of knowing how many times is necessary to repeat until I get it. You offer extra encouragement when the chords are tough. You have a sense of empathy for the struggles of others that some of the other teachers (even the ones I like a lot) don't have to the same extent. Yours was the first channel I ever set notifications on for thanks to your multi-day challenges. I wouldn't be half as good as I am now if it weren't for you. Thank you for all your hard work.
Stephen Lee I told her once that there has to be some witchcraft involved cus she knows exactly when to say “ok that didn’t feel right let’s do this again” or “you can do this, pause the video do it a couple of times and come back” hahaha but it’s amazing to feel that connection! Loved your comment I agree and relate with everything you’ve said! Good ukings for you!
@@thespas9678 I like it when she she says "Put your ukulele down and look up, watch my hands.....Look up!". She knows I'm slipping in a few sneaky strums LOL
MARIA JACKSON hahahahah I knooow I like those bits too! But I’m a teacher too so usually when she says to put it down and look I usually do it 🤪 but I imagine everyone else still trying hahaha that’s what my students always do 🤗 but I love it means we are eager to try and she’s eager for us to learn it well! Perfection!
@@thespas9678 Once, Bernadette sounded a bit insistant, and I said "alright alright!!".....I felt dead guilty.
MARIA JACKSON don’t feel bad!! That’s actually hilarious it means avengers to you hahahahaha it only proves she’s a real teacher! Students talk back sometimes when they get frustrated and specially when the teacher is right
Your singing makes me happy.
Imposter Syndrome. Yup. Me too! You’re amazing. Keep doing what you’re doing and stay strong! You’re loved! 😘
I know this is an older video, but my goodness, you have been an absolute postive force in my life and made me really fall in love with playing music again. Thank you so much for building this community and making music accessible and fun. I went through your 30 day ukelele challenge and am so so thankful! I’m excited to now be a part of your patreon community and recommend it to all my friends!
BERNADETTE, YOU LISTEN TO ME PLEASE
You were so, so instrumental (pun unintended) to me while I was learning how to play the ukulele, and I'm confident there are thousands of people who wouldn't be where are they are right now with their uke if it weren't for you. You have no idea how much you mean to all of us. You're going above and beyond to help us all, and I'm very sorry that you feel like that sometimes. You aren't a fraud by any means, and we appreciate you so much. Thank you for taking the time out of your life to help us become better musicians. This video was so raw yet helpful, and I'm so glad you decided to make it. We all care about you so much and think you're one of the best teachers out there. Thank you for everything, and I hope you always keep playing music. 💜
Florina Devereux hahahaha loved the pun!!!
I'm 72 and determined to learn how to play the ukelele. I have played the piano so understand most of music. I find that your videos are the best on TH-cam. They have already helped me immensely. Thank you.
“Everything you’ve ever wanted is on the other side of fear! “ George Addair. I love this quote! It is so true.
You are definitely not doing any kind of fraud or something....
You are just teaching an art to thousands of people who are passionate.❤
And don't worry we love you ...
You are my uku mentor ❤❤
comparison is the thief of joy, I choose to keep the joy , thanks, I needed your insight, its good to know we are not alone in feelings we never share... maria from Annapolis,, p.s. there is a ukeannapolis meeting at edgewater library Saturday jan 19 from 1 till 4 if anyone is in the area you are welcome to stop by
I hope this message get through. YOU, are my go-to ukulele teacher, period! I love you and thank you! Keep being you.
As others have mentioned, you deserve all of your success. Much of it is due to your openness and vulnerability. Sharing your emotions and letting us see "behind the scenes" makes you real to others and they feel that they know you personally and love you for all that you do. Your generosity is inspirational and your teaching is first class. Keep up the good work and know that we all love and appreciate you.💖☮👍
I find it so upsetting that someone so talented could feel not deserving of their talent or the business they have built because of their talent. This community built your channel to what it is, BUT your talent, sincerity, qualifications, and effort is what built the foundation on which we rely on. I, for one, have never doubted you or your abilities. I feel as though you are my friend. I trust you. Thank you for this video! I'm feeling more motivated already!
I am so proud of you for sharing your insecurities. Don't worry we love you ❤️
The REAL reason people quit ukulele:
BAR CHORDS.
🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
Your honesty about your impostor syndrome is exactly why you have this community. You're a great teacher. My daughter and i have learned a lot from you. Thank you.
Good advice, Bernadette! So glad you revisited this topic. Also, don't be so hard on yourself. I think you're amazing! :) I LOVE the honesty though! Honesty won't steer you wrong, and I appreciate how you speak openly to your audience. Thanks, Bernadette!
I so needed to hear this!! It brought me to tears. I struggle with some of the same issues. Just remember. You are where you are suppose to be and helping people like me. I am too overwhelmed with some of the “better teachers”. The ability to teach is a rare gift. You have that gift! Thank you for not quitting!!! I still go back and watch some of your basic lessons. Timeless!
I began my ukulele journey because I love music. Ukulele seemed like it would be simple fun and mostly, do-able. I bought one uke and shortly after, bought a second. A tenor first,; then a soprano. You, Bernadette, have been the ONE who have been my favorite GO-TO person for my adventure! I am a retired art teacher. I know how to teach. You are the best. Others are trying, but they are not doing the teaching the way it needs to be done.
Thank you for doing this!
Fight the negativity... we know where that comes from (a hot place which smells like smoke and sulfur)..😉
Keep up the good work... I will eventually show you my progress...❤️
Nanci Sabino Well said!
You are super nice. I have been trying to learn for almost one year and often get frustrated too. Here is a link to a friend's video.
th-cam.com/video/4Lj5KFQDnSM/w-d-xo.html
Best wishes, Bob
Lynn Griffin thank you. Seems just as we all do, Bernadette should hear how appreciated she is ..
Ahhh this comment is amazing made me laugh! I also inserted something in mine with brackets hahahahaha you are absolutely right!
Me: I cycle through finger style steel string (Travis/Doc Watson) guitar, nylon (classical) guitar, banjo and ukulele. This keeps me from advancing as far as I could if I would stick to one instrument and style. I realize this but I don't mind. I play for pleasure - my goal is enjoyment, advancement is secondary so I won't quit any of these and I may decide to bring another instrument into the mix.
You: You are a PROFESSIONAL! You have chosen to teach and I will tell you that you are the most professional teacher I have ever observed. Your extensive preparation is recognized and appreciated by all of us who subscribe to your channel. You have a beautiful voice, personality and disposition so please let me assure you that you deserve the size of your channel and you will see it grow because you are a professional teacher in every sense of the word. Just keep being you. Thanks for everything you do!
Bernadette I am a new learner,, at 65 yrs. young I'm just now interested in making music, you so inspire me!! Thanks, and what you explained about why people quit,,, this process is like life. You are worthy my dear!! for sharing your insights into so many things of life.
Imposter syndrome is what kept me from teaching private lessons for so long. I am not Advanced but I have enough skills to teach others what I know. Because of your videos I decided to step out and begin teaching lessons. I love the quote "When you learn teach, when you get give" by Maya Angelou. It keeps me going! I don't have to know it all to be an effective teacher and when I learn something new I need to share it. You are fabulous and the type of teacher a lot of us need. When you learn you share, when you get you give and I and many other music teachers are so grateful..May God continue to bless you and this channel. You are fantastic!
Bernadette, I get so much from your videos. You are in no way a fraud. My personal challenges are two: achieving a good strumming sound, especially on the up strums, and remembering chords I’ve learned. I can get around the first, until I learn how to strum, by using a pick. The second, though, is a matter of age. I’m 65. I’ll learn a chord, then encounter it the next day and it’s like I’ve never seen it before. So I have to keep learning and learning it until it’s internalized.
I've just started the 30 days challenge. My 5 years old daughter got an ukelele for christmas, nobody in the family play and we have the necessity to learn just to teach her a little bit before we can find an ukelele's teacher nearby. So my husband and I are new members of the ukelele's 30 days challenge. We will take care not to fall on those recommendations. Keep going and thank you so much for your help on this, you are so great!
Oh Berni!!!!!! You are amazing and I feel (even though I have never met you) you are one of the most genuine, caring and smart people I have seen especially when it comes to caring about your viewers and learning the ukulele. My biggest fear is thinking I cannot sing well enough to continue playing the uke. I am a part of a uke group in my local community and we have many opportunities to get up on stage to sing and play and it totally freaks me out. My original teacher always tried to encourage me as she says I am a great player but I guess it is the self doubt of myself and fear of singing out of key or tune that scares me the most. When I watch your tutorials I see myself sometimes and you should be so proud of yourself being able to put yourself out there to so many people and help them be the best they can be on ukulele. I for one am very grateful for your presence. You go girl 🤙💪👊🏼❤️
I really liked this video! very sincere, emotional and encouraging.
I think you almost cried when you confessed about the personal sabotage syndrome ... do not worry about those feelings, you are very good at what you do and you have almost 100,000 people who always remind you with their likes, their comments and their shares. you are excellent and little by little you will be improving more and more and more!
in my case, I think I have lived several times in which I practically let my fears stop me ... in my opinion, the most dangerous are: compare yourself with others and sabotage us by thinking that we are not good or that we are a fiasco. It's hard to deal with those feelings..
WOW!!!!!! “Coach”, i think this is by far - YOUR BEST YOU-TUBE EVER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! So transparent......So open.......So SINCERE💕💕💕. Especailly the way you shared reasons that even YOU yourself would want to quit. (Thank you for doing that❤️) I could totally relate at each point you mentioned. Because of your teaching - (compared to my attempts from other channels....) - i have been able to play my MOST FAVORITE SONGS:....”What a Wonderful World”.....”Hallelujah”.....”House of the Rising Sun”......”Can’t Help Falling in Love”.......”Stand by me”......”Somewhere Over the Rainbow”........and ”Have you ever seen the rain” (which was your 1st song Tutorial).......**I cannot play any of these songs on my guitars........But i can on my Uke.......I’ve been taking my Ukulele to Family/Social Gatherings........I start PLAYING......because I CAN now......and i loooooove PLAYING.......THANKS “COACH”👏👏👏 (This is why you DESERVE this channel - you’re a teacher.....and you taught me). I suffered loss in 2017 - The UKULELE has been a WONDERUL outlet of JOY😍😍😍. 🤔Love the point you talked about re Memorizing. Will try to do that in 2019🤔. My #1 purpose to play an instrument is the COGNITIVE Benefits - Memorizing is KEY. *This LESSON is sooooo POWERFUL. Wonder if you should play it twice a year.......Definitely Once-a-year because you cover Very Important Points......e.g that a person can quit at an Advanced level.........Hope i never quit.....After watching this........I Promise i never will❤️. Thanks again “COACH”❤️ You are so SPOT ON!!!!!! with what you teach in this video🎉🎉🎉
thank you very much! i'm very glad to have found you as my ukulele teacher!
Oh dearest Bernadette, you deserve every bit of success you have! Don’t doubt yourself! You are kind, you are strong, you are sincere, and you are an incredible person! Can’t say enough good about you, and you need to believe it! Can I tell you the reason I see most of my students quit ukulele (and other instruments), lots of them perceive that it will be “easy” to learn, and then when they realize it’s more challenging than they thought, they quit. This usually happens at the first roadblock they face, no matter what it is.
Don’t doubt your success, you are not an imposter, you are a teacher, and you are teaching us great things! You are a teacher, and you are building a community! These are all things good teachers do. Have a joyous day sweet girl! (Leah not Anna;-)
Bernadette,
It is so easy to doubt oneself. Staying the course can be difficult, especially when only you and those closest to you know what you are feeling. You wear your emotions on your sleeve and people love you for it. Never try to be something you are not. Never try to be what you think people want you to be for you would be wrong.
People initially tune in for many reasons but come back for only one, it’s because you are you.
Someday TH-cam will be over and when you look back it’s important to know you did your best, you were true to your values and you made a difference.
Take care,
Wes
I have the ' no focus ' problem, when im learning a new song i just learn most of the times the first part of the song and then move on to another song. I definitely need to get better on this. Awesome video btw ♥
I started playing my ukulele at 38 years old and I am afraid I started too late in life to get really good. I think about it every time I sit down to play my ukulele.
Same here. I was a few weeks shy of 39 when I started. I think about the same thing. I then play some of my favorite songs and think about how far I've come. Do it because you love it. Not because of how good you are or want to be.
The first time I came home and wanted to start playing Ukulele but no person made it easy for me to understand YOU were there.
You have a talent, you're amazing, I belive that you deserve so much more. Xoxo
Sending strong hugs 2 u from mexico💜
You seem like the sweetest and most kind person. Don’t give up teaching on TH-cam because there’s other teachers that do differently; everyone learns a little different. While one person teaches something you may have a even the smallest hint of a difference teaching something that maybe 50% of others couldn’t pick up from another teacher. I love to sing but can’t; I love music even more and learning an instrument is a great gift! Thanks for your videos I’ve learned a lot in just one week!! (My daughter got a ukulele that she asked for for Christmas but she’s not showing much interest but I’m loving it lol)
Great insights and things to think about. Don’t go, we need you!
A reason why I still play ukulele today is because I watch your videos! In your song tutorials, you take it very slow so beginner like me 2 years ago can actually have the feeling of success that they learned a song! Thank you for continuing your TH-cam channel to encourage people to keep playing ukulele!
Much of this seems to apply to me. Toss in some major health problems and it’s easy to become discouraged. Instead, I’ve just decided to take a break. I can always come back to playing the ukulele and given a little time I think I will. Thanks for your encouragement.
Immediately related to the video just from the first reason. I will do my best to continue playing the ukulele for a long time though :) by the way, please don't feel like you're not worth this channel. You are one of the greatest ukulele teachers in this community, I mostly learn from your videos not others. You're doing your job well and I hope you keep it that way. ❤
I identified with many of your comments. I'm autistic but my diagnosis came years after my personality had become set in stone. Perfectionism and fear of failure go hand in hand with me. If I am not perfect I am no good. If I make a mistake I am a failure. This leads to me being totally stressed rather than relaxing and just enjoying the music. My defense mechanism over the years has been to ridicule myself before others got the chance to, but people who constantly put themselves down don't end up with many friends (even worse if like me you have weird obsessions). Sore fingertips or not, I'm going to watch more of your videos now. Thank you. xxx
Please don't quit. I have just restarted playing the ukulele that I have had for over 10 years. I put it away because I couldn't get past the callous stage of learning. I have just stated to watch your videos and i find your voice calming, encouraging and reassuring. Your enthusiasm for the instrument is infectious and you are not a fraud. You are authentic and that is why people are down to your channel. Looking forward to learning more with you.
I love your how sincere you are Bernadette, I don't think any of us could see you as fraud. You always kept in real and I think you've always been authentic to who you are. Whether it sharing bits and pieces of yourself through your videos and videos like this where you share your own struggle and insecurities. Your videos are truly insightful.
Your videos are genuine and inspiring. I fall into a couple of those reasons but haven't given up yet, but am taking things slower than I would like. Watching your videos encourages me to continue. Please don't ever stop.
#1 reason to keep playing ukulele;
Having Bernadette as a teacher. She is by far, the best teacher for beginners. She teaches in a way to make it easy to understand. And she also throws in some challenges to help you advance your skills. She makes her channel educational, interesting, entertaining, and just fun to watch. She has great guests and brings in her husband sometimes who is funny too.
You will be at 100,000 subscribers very soon. And you get that because
you are very good at what you do.... ;)
Wishing you and your husband a Happy New Year.....
Great post today, about reasons to stop playing. Well organized & presented. Everyone has that imposter syndrome inside them, you’ve got to learn to bury it to grow & continue. (I’ve been practicing architecture for 35 years and that syndrome still surfaces but, as I’m not forcing myself on anyone, It’s easy enough to ignore) Students will always advance beyond their teachers, but that is testimony to the effectiveness of the teacher. Life would be much less wonderful if the ukulele teachers were all top singers. You sing way better than most of us and that’s okay. I can’t sing a note myself but started sending my family & friends singing ukulele birthday videos since I started learning uke with you about a year ago. It’s all good. You’re a wonderful teacher! Thanks for this important post.
Excellent video. I never knew there was a actual name for number 9! I experience it with art, singing and playing ukulele . It keeps me from doing those things...
However, I am learning that I must do what I love and not care so much what others think. Easier said then done😉
The real reason I am writing is to say YOU are a gifted teacher. That’s your gift and you give it away every day. Like all wonderful teachers your other gift is encouragement! You can’t be one without the other! Thank you for all you do and for giving of yourself to all of us. There is no greater gift than that. The Lord has made you this way for a purpose. Keep running with it. You go girl!
PS I found this video very helpful! Thank you!!!😘
I originally wanted to start playing ukelele because my husband and I moved to hawaii In March (he is also in the navy) and I became mesmerized with the instrument. My husband and I have been trying to have a baby for over 2 years now, and after treatments and procedures, still nothing. So, me being a crazy person, I thought that playing the uke could be something I could do when I'm pregnant, and play for a baby, and then something that I could take away from the island that would always be with me, that I could teach to our kids. And then my brain starts spinning, like, "what if I was the cool mom who played the happy birthday song on the ukelele for birthday parties...and Christmas traditions of singing Christmas songs together, and all that mushy gushy stuff!" So my fear, I guess, is that what if I never get pregnant, i don't want to avoid and despise the instrument because I establish it with children and family. But then it goes the other way to I cant sing. and what if I dont get good enough to want to play and sing and teach my children. I've loved our time in Hawaii so far and learning and loving this instrument, and I don't want to lose this beautiful part of the culture here, that I've had to pleasure of learning from you.
Now that my deep dark ramblings are over... I just want to say thank you! You truly are a bright presence in the community and a great teacher!
Thank you for sharing, you sound just like how my brain works. Anxiety is a curse !
without being indiscrete, do you have a child now ?
Sorry to seem rude or something
I'm 68, just retired, and just got a ukulele - I'm waiting for it to arrive. I'm so thankful I found you. You are such an inspiration and so reassuring. I'm now subscribed to your channel and feel blessed to have found you. Thank you so much for the gift of you. 🙂
nunca te desamines, cuando nos gusta lo que hacemos deja de llamarse trabajo, you are not a fraud we are here because we like it
On action, a luthier or guitar tech can help, but a third alternative is a player who has done setups on his or her own instruments. Most good ukuleles can be made quite playable by doing three things: lowering the saddle, filing the nut and leveling the frets.
A caveat: filing the nut and leveling the frets requires some very specific tools (NOT a nail file and NOT a sanding block!), so if your helpful friend does not have those, stay clear.
But, I frequently set up ukes for friends, and show them how as I do it. It saves them a little time and money, and it helps me to stay in practice, as setting up is a perishable skill.
So, ask when you go to jams. Chances are good that you’ll find someone who can correct the action on your uke in less than half an hour.
Bernadette, you're a great teacher! My wife is learning ukulele as a complete beginner and is picking up many things. I'm a guitarist of many years and I'm learning for fun & to help my wife learn. I think someday I may take up the tenor uke (with a low G) to be a uke player like a guitarist capo'ed at the 5th fret. I'm guilty of no/low focus and have stalled many times on plateaus in my many years of guitar playing. Today, I encouraged my wife to go through your full 30-day challenge. Thank you for all your videos on TH-cam!
WOW!!! finally had time to watch this. I have so many mixed emotions right now. Happy knowing not alone in having all the stated anxieties or sad as you hit the nail on the head. I have been frustrated, doubted my progress and questioned where to go from where I am. Your videos and challenges have given me direction and focus. What an amazingly genuine person you are Bernadette. Seriously thank you!!!!! (and Jose) without your help I would have a Ukulele hanging on the wall as a glorified decoration. You have given me a love for playing this instrument. I still have frustrations when playing and a lot of anxiety on posting the challenges you offer but "Eat the Frog" and do it.
Hi Bernadette, I’ve been playing for a year and I know I wouldn’t be as far ahead as I am without your lessons-keep up the great work-l really appreciate everything you do
Fear of rejection, negative and mean comments can also be demeaning! Especially for a perfectionist also makes it difficult to put yourself out there! 😞
you are the best ukulele teacher in the entire history of TH-cam, and I am grateful and honored to be your student.
Bernadette, you have encouraged and taught me and my three children (ages 8, 11 and 13) to learn the ukulele. We loved your videos from the first one we saw. We love the Beatles, and enjoyed your challenge (although we can't play all the music yet). I can identify with impostor syndrome and I understand the fear. I have tried to learn different instruments from the time I was a little kid and never persevered, and often feel like a failure musically because of it. I also sing but have shelved it for a long time. It's so true that comparison is the thief of joy. And when you try to do something about the goals you have always had, then all the other reasons why it won't work try to stop you from going ahead - including the idea that you are not talented enough compared to everyone else. All this to say, please keep on persevering with the lessons on your channel. When I was little, I completely dreaded my piano lessons. You make playing the ukulele fun and attainable. The beauty of the ukulele is that you can gain wins quickly, and that encourages you to keep going. You teach it so well. I appreciate you speaking so openly about your feelings. It makes me realize that I should keep pushing forward, because I experience the same thing. You are the last person on earth that should feel like you are not talented enough or don't deserve the success. Thank you for the wonderful work you put out there. We are so grateful for it, and for being four of your students.
Woah this was actually very insightful! I have finished the 30-day challenge and I am so happy with my simple accomplishment. I never knew that my perfectionism would actually harm me! I don't know if it's just because I'm just beginning with ukulele, but every time I almost fall into the plateau stage, I always grab my ukulele and just play random chord progressions. I am glad my curiosity kept me going. Also, the printable totally helped me (it added on more info alongside the video's info). Dang! I think I might have a small case of imposter syndrome only due to the fact that sometimes, I just feel my accomplishments aren't as amazing as others perceive it to be. Thank you so much for this video!
Jenny Chen I’m sure you are amazing, I think that everyone who finishes the 30 day challenge is, if you think about it, all you know now, where you were and where you’re at, it’s amazing! Just keep at it! 💪
Unrelated but your profile picture!! I love Kehlani and her cloud19 mixtape was amazing
Dear Bernadette, you are the best ukulele teacher, you are a true educator. Remember that some of the best teachers in life are not impresarios who perform to huge audiences, you understand the teaching PROCESS and you are wonderful, I have followed you almost from yo7r beginning listening to your tips and thoughts, thank you so much for being a wonderful teacher. 😍
Thank you Bernadette for all you do to share the " joy" of learning Ukulele! 😊 As an Elementary Music Specialist for 25 years now I find you very inspiring as you share how to play. As I teach Beginning Strings (Uke/Guitar), Woodwinds (Ocarina/Recorder) and Percussion (World Drums + Buckets!) to young musicians in K-8 I hope to inspire them to choose an instrument that they enjoy and begin their adventure in music making. Your passion for sharing and teaching Ukulele is very evident! Also...as a Vocal Music Educator I would encourage you to "stop" saying you are are not a good singer. Take some time to develop your singing voice like you do your Uke....I think you can excel there also! Honestly, I also find it difficult to sing with the same quality as I play Uke...hard to focus on both. Maybe rehearse separately then put together? Anyway...keep strumming and sharing! You are a blessing!! 😆😆😆
Omg! You totally hit the nail on the head! As a music educator and instructor people assume that we are experts in everything music related when that’s not always the case. Being a vocalist I struggled learning instruments and over time developed my skills a little at a time, but now I feel everyone expects me to be an expert on those instruments which couldn’t be further from the truth. Thank you for sharing and for allowing me to see that I am not alone. 😊
I love this video and your pure honesty. You are my favorite teacher of all the teachers I have had over the years. It was you who got me excited about learning how to play the ukulele and having fun. My biggest hurdle to jump over is the fear of failure because I’m a perfectionist. However, you have helped me to calm down about it and learn to love the ukulele. Even though I am a beginner and make mistakes, I have found that “she” sings to me which puts me in a happier place and I have you thank for it. Thank you again for being you and for teaching us.
Bernadette, You are an excellent teacher. I have some experience as a teacher myself and some experience evaluating other teachers so I can speak with authority here and assure you that you are not an impostor, but the real deal. You know how to break things down and explain them in a way that people will understand. You also know the problems that learners will experience when they attempt each skill and you point out how to solve those problems. I think one of the problems with music instruction is that there are a lot of people who are excellent musicians who teach as a way to supplement their income, but they really aren't very good teachers or very interested in teaching others.
You are clearly a great teacher, I have two Master’s degrees one in organ performance and another one in music ed and you are the best resource I’ve found for learning how to play ukulele. I think not having students you can hear and having the immediate feed back that other teachers have when teaching may be why you have some doubt. I recommend you to all of my students who get a ukulele of their own. Please continue, one thing that you did not mention is in my experience is that kids want to give up right away because they can not play after one or two tries, music takes years to really get good at and a lot of practice and perseverance, which is not common in today’s society. If they can not accomplish it quickly they do not want to keep trying and want to do something else. The instant gratification syndrome.
I have no fear long as Bernadette The Teacher is here!!!!!!))) Great Video !!!!!)))🎈🎈🎈👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼😊
Dear Bernadette, your succsess is being close to us ordinary people. I don't have time nor will for Gurus or You tube "divinity" from whom I could learn more or better. That is why I choose you and one of your female colleagues. Sometimes less is more, I'm dooing just fine with you in only four months and I keep being involved. Keep going girl, your path is clear andy shiny!!! :*
Hello, Bernadette! Thank you for your insightful, instructional videos. Having recently bought my first ukulele, I've subscribed to about 6 channels with ukulele tutorials. But I find myself coming back to yours most often because you always add your valuable insights into your lessons, which other channels cannot provide. I'm sure it has to do with the fact that you are a certified music teacher, but also because you care about your students, and that empathy comes through in your teaching. Your empathy motivates you to share insights, like the "10 Reasons" in this video. Your videos are a gift. So, thank you so very much for being here and sharing your knowledge!
Hi Miss B, I’m Alice from Malaysia. I’ve always wanted to learn how to play the ukulele but never had the confidence as I’m already 55 years old. I watched so many TH-cam tutorials and I found you. I took up the 30 days Challenge, printed out your printable notes, made myself a corner. And now after a few weeks, I just can’t stop playing. I would like to thank you for making all the videos. Without your videos, I don’t know when I will pick up a ukulele. Great job, Miss B. Give yourself a pat on the back. 👏👏👏
I don't stop because of the encouraging qoutes at insta Thank Ms. B 🙂🙂🙂
I feel very called out by this video, nearly all the reasons apply to me, and not only for the ukulele, often for instruments or sports or just hobbies I've done and given up before.
Thank you for this incredibly honest video, I think it's gonna spark a lot of interesting conversation. It's so important to share the uncomfortable things too.
Lu Bold hey you are amazing! You may feel all of this but tell your brain to go (insert swear word here) himself! You’re brilliant and an amazing part of all this experience! 😘
Oh my gosh, HOW are you in my head??? This was a timely video, as just a few days ago I was doing a little pouty tantrum, because I thought my playing was too loud, and crappy and buzzy, and I wanted to practice but didn't want anyone to hear me and sometimes I didn't want to hear me, and my hubby was saying I was doing fine and to keep going, and I wasn't sure I wanted to but he got me this nice Uke for Christmas and what if I disappoint him.....SIGH. So I sit down today after a couple days break and go to your channel and here it is.....your Message Of Wisdom! Thank you for your encouragement. You are fantastic!
Well I experienced some of the things you talk about and I can definitely relate to the feeling of quitting (not just ukulele but things in general). I think the fact that you opened up and talked about your feelings and fears makes you an even better teacher! I love what you're doing and I learned almost everything I know about uke through your channel, so a big THANK YOU Bernadette! ❤
Never doubt your talent and competence and keep on helping people to find happiness through music!
Thank you for this honest video! I kind of am the no focus person, but somehow it goes on and I am making progress, yay! But I have to confess that I've learned two complete songs for christmas :D
Dear Bernadette, please know that you are a wonderful teacher! We are so lucky that you are here for us. ❤️ This video nearly brought me to tears because I, too, have experienced all of these feelings while trying to learn. Thank you for bringing this to light and giving us ways to overcome these feelings. You always seem to know just what to say to help us, your students. 😊
ありがとう！
Thanks for sharing this. I feel like all the reasons you described were what I needed to be made aware of. You are the best!
Hi Ms B., I’m a ukulele beginner from Hong Kong, and this is my first time leaving a comment on TH-cam 🤗 Just would like to say a good teacher may not be the most skilful one (vice versa usually), but the one who has a great mind to observe and think carefully from beginners’ perspectives. Many experienced players could have forgot the difficulties beginners may face, but you’ve been doing it very well. I learned chucking from your video cuz you know what exactly confuse beginners and use slow pace and shots from different angles to explain in details, which is rarely seen on TH-cam. Thank you so much for your generous sharing and I’ll keep following you ❤️
This is so helpful, I'm totally a number 1.
Oooh no, no, no!
You deserve to be here, you have worked so hard, and a lot of people don't know the skill and time it takes behind the scenes.
You have encouraged and helped and inspired soooo many people!
I am so thankful for you, all of your talents and knowledge!
Your most humble student,
Darla :)
Ukulele is synonymous with lightness and peace of mind, so absorb that and don't think you're a fraud... think that you're giving your best, helping people reach their own level of personal skill.
Thank you for your words of wisdom!
Thank you for this! I am guilty of at least 6 reasons! But...I don't want to quit. Ive been playing for about 2 months. I am so thankful for your 30 day challenge. That's where I started. I love how you explain the basics so well such as holding the uke and how to properly form chords. You're my favorite teacher! 😊
Becky Hornak hey we started together! Are you sharing stuff on insta? If you are tell me your handle I’ll go follow you and cheer you on!!
@@thespas9678 Yay! So much fun. Unfortunately I'm not on Instagram. TH-cam is my only social media outlet!
Becky Hornak well now you have one subscriber 😉maybe I’ll see you there one day!! Good ukings for you!!
I can relate to so many of the points you have listed. You are really brave for being open about this subject. I have dealt and will forever deal with selfdoubt. So much that I often doubt it whether someone speaks the truth when they give me a compliment. Especially omparison causes me to be harsh and not satisfied with myself.
I truly believe that you deserve the size of this channel. The growth that the channel has been through doesn’t happen overnight. It happens through dedication and hard work and having a beautiful soul like yours. And you ARE a talented ukulele teacher. Just think about the amount of people that have learned to play the uke with the help of your videos! I would have never come this far without you as my teacher.
Maybe you are not a perfect player - I can't say it as I'm just a bit better than a beginner - but it doesn't matter. You taught me - and others - who did not know anything the basics and with your kind personality and you step by step challenges you made me keep going.
My problem is the plateau... If I want to play a a new song it is not a problem. There are many songs I can play with the chords I'm able to play. But I want more... some finger pickings, some different strumming patterns... some days I find some on my own and am really proud. Sometimes I can't figure out how to make it more interessting and then I'm frustrated.
But nothing makes me more calm down tgan playing my Uke
Keep playing, singing, and teaching ukulele, Bernadette! I enjoy your videos ❤️
Great video! And one I’m sure we all can relate to. I used to experience imposter syndrome a lot. (I never knew there was a name for it.) Especially in my career as a music therapist. The music therapy program where I went to college was kind of at a crossroads at the time. It lacked quality instructors and real life experiences. As a result, I really had to kind of teach myself techniques through trial and error and observing other music therapists after I graduated. I’m kind of over it now because I realized that if you are constantly trying to hide your weaknesses, you cannot work on them. So my solution was to be realistic and get to know myself- my strengths and my shortcomings. I try my best to be comfortable with that. Unapologetic even. And that leaves me space to ask questions about things I don’t know, work on my shortcomings and embrace my strengths. ❤️
I mainly find myself wanting to play less if I'm not involved with learning something. That's why your ukulele challenges are a great resource because it gives me something to work on and achieve
I quited ukulele not just because I didnt want to play, its because I had no time and because of my mental inless. But I decided to keep going. I bought a better ukulele and I will start playing it again :) Its a really fun instrument and I really enjoy it.
I agree with all the points you mentioned, having fun in what you do makes things a little easy 😄
Thank you , this was great. Very helpful !
Thank you so much for not quitting. Honestly you are good at teaching ukulele and I like your voice whenever you hum while teaching it sounds peaceful. I have seriously learned a lot from your videos. I will re-watch this video whenever I feel like quitting ukulele to remind myself not to quit. I had quit my art for almost a year due to this imposter syndrome combined with comparing to others.
Strength to you for continuing this good work and we are grateful. 💙
I love love love this vid. One challenge i do experience is when my hands get sweaty while playing esp. when i try to make a cover. It could be disappointing but i can't continue learning if i stop just because of it.
You deserve what you have right now Miss B. You taught me how to play - someone who has a fear of playing instruments for a readon that i might not learn just like what happened when i was in High school. I got a guitar, bought it from my savings. I never learned how to play to the point that my guitar was borrowed and never returned. My guitar being stolen did not bother me, what traumatized me was the fact that i did not learn. After 13 years i realized i still wanted to play an instrument and thought maybe an uke would be better because i have small hands. In a nut shell i watched your tutorials Miss B even before getting an Uke and now i am starting to learn songs and playing it on Uke wholeheartedly ~ you are one of the reasons i overcame that fear and crushed it because now i can play 😊
When you told about what you never told about your insecurity I begun ro cry: too bad, because you deserve all the credit
Thank you so much, Ida ❤️❤️❤️
Bernadette
You are an excellent teacher!
It is so easy to doubt your own gifts when you really care about your subject. I taught middle school band for almost 25 years and was always learning new things about my craft. If you ever feel like you know it all, you will cease to be a good teacher. You are approachable and honest. You give solid skills and reasons why things should be done a certain way. Your instruction is multi-layered and you give so many helps along the way. You make learning the ukulele fun. You are an excellent teacher.
Dina, thank you so much.
Wow, middle school band for 25 years?! Your heart must be full of beautiful memories. And your students must have fond memories of their time in the band room. ❤️❤️
As a beginner i get you.. other people compare themselves to me.. since i dont have any experience in other instrument.. i feel discouraged.. they say i dont know how to stum.. etc.. but its fine.. i will keep on going because i love the feeling when i play with my ukulele..
Your videos are so easy to follow, I've recommended them to friends are thinking about learning or whose children are starting to learn at school. Your success is definitely not down to luck, you are good at what you do. The pace of your tutorials are great too.
You are a great teacher. Not being the best at something isn’t always the way to go. Me and my wife watch your videos over anyone else because of your down to earth approachable technic. We hope you never stop teaching!
Thank you for all you do, to help the rest of us!! You're not a fraud, you're very talented and on a higher level than the majority of us, that come here to learn from you!! So again... THANK YOU! ❤️
I experienced plateau a few months ago. 😔I couldn't find any thing new to learn on guitar. Just played old songs every day. 😞
Now I finally recovered and am learning some fingerstyle. ❤️
Ms. B, you are so talented in teaching ukulele. Your explanations are always soo clear. And your ukulele playing is out of the world. 😍😍😍Please don't feel that way. Have confidence in yourself. 😊😊😊
I almost freaked out when you said you had imposter syndrome. 😱😱😱
You are sooo talented Bernadette! I am so happy you decided to make this Chanel. You are such a great teacher and I learned so much from you the little bit of time I started playing the ukulele.
Love the info. All these pointers will help so much.
Bernadette, Great video! I appreciate the fact that you are able to call out your students who place roadblocks to their learning. I am guilty of a number of your reasons why people quit Ukulele, and its good to challenge myself to overcome this mental roadblocks. I really appreciate your videos and all of the hard work that it takes to create this awesome TH-cam channel. You are a very good instructor! Remember a good teacher must be a subject matter expert and they have to be able to relate to their students. If one of these components is missing than learning will not take place. Your channel is very informative, information is disseminated, and the instructor (you) has a fantastic ability to relate to her students. Keep up the great work and thank you for helping me along this journey.
Thank you for sharing! I've got the poor setup going right now. Hoping to remedy soon. But I appreciate all of these because I could see falling into some of these. Hopefully I can recognize these and make a change.