Method for the Ukulele (Hawaiian Guitar)

Rick Pfrogner, a Ditson ukulele enthusiast and historian, recently submitted this exciting find. Published by Oliver Ditson Co. with a copyright date of 1909, this book represents one of the very earliest ukulele method books. It collects several different arrangements for ukulele, along with a primer on tuning, chords, and notes.

The booklet is shown above with two very early ukuleles sold by the Chas. Ditson store of New York. On the left is a Style 1 with no fret markers and maple nut & saddle dating to 1916-17. On the right is an exceptionally rare “pre-dreadnought” Style 2 made in early 1916 for Chas. Ditson.