Strumming Exercises: The Calypso Strum

Get access to more exercise and Playalong videos to help you on your journey at my Patreon page:   / stringlessons  

This is a strumming exercise comprising of patterns made from quarter note and 8th note rhythms.

These rhythms are the building blocks of music, and of most strumming patterns. Master these and you will become a strong and confident strummer.


The ukulele plays each pattern four times, then stops for four passes through the pattern. Play along with the Ukulele and then play four times on your own. This gives you practice at holding the rhythm by yourself. Sometimes the accompanying drum part will be sparse. This is to help strengthen your own internal rhythm.

Aim to be as relaxed as possible when playing and to feel the rhythm as well as understanding it intellectually. Keep practicing regularly and the co-ordination and muscle memory of your rhythm playing will strengthen over time.