The Guitalele (sometimes incorrectly spelled “Guitarlele”) may be new to you now, but you’re sure to hear a lot more about this unique instrument in the months to come. The Guitalele (GL-1) was originally introduced by the Yamaha Corporation in 1997. But only now in 2011, given the huge popularity of the ukulele around the world, has it become available in the US Many musicians refer to the Guitalele as half guitar and half ukulele. It really is much more than that. This unique six-string mini instrument is about the size of a baritone ukulele (17-inch scale) or you could say the size of a small guitar. It has nylon strings similar to a classical guitar, but is tuned more like a ukulele. tuned up (A – or down to a quarter) in (ADGCEA). Think of a guitar with a capo on the fifth fret. The top four strings of the Guitalele (GCEA) are the same as those of the ukulele. The bottom two strings (AD) add a bit of bass.

Although the Guitalele can be tuned by ear, you may find it easier to tune the Guitalele with a clip-on chromatic tuner. Popular brands of string instrument tuners include the Snark SN-2 and the Korg CA-1 or CA-30. Many of the chord shapes played on the Guitalele are the same shapes played on the guitar. However, a D chord played on the guitar becomes a G chord when the same form is played on the Guitalele. An E chord shape played on the guitar becomes an A chord when the same shape is played on the Guitalele, and so on. For those of you who prefer not to transpose chords up or down in your head while playing your Guitalele, you will find it easier to have a Guitalele specific chord chart.

One thing for sure about Yamaha’s Guitalele (GL-1) is that it’s fun and easy to play for all ages. You also appreciate the Guitalele’s small travel size that makes it easy to take anywhere; when going on a hike, to the beach, to the mountains, to school or just jamming with friends, you name it. But don’t be fooled by its small size. The tone is rich and smooth and it’s also incredibly loud.

The Yamaha GL-1 Guitalele is not a toy, but a fine musical instrument built to the same superior quality that Yamaha builds into its acoustic guitars. For those of you who are experienced players, you will love the unique tone that Guitalele will add to your music.