What is the Difference Between Tenor and Concert Ukulele

The main difference between tenor and concert ukulele is that tenor ukulele is larger than a concert ukulele and produces a fuller sound.

Ukuleles are small guitars with four strings, having a Hawaiian origin. They come in different shapes and sizes, and these sizes have an impact on the sound they create. When the body size of the instrument increases, the more volume, bass, and warmth it creates. Soprano, concert, tenor, and baritone are the common types of ukuleles. Their difference mainly lies in their size and, consequently the sounds they produce. Soprano ukulele is considered the standard ukulele. The exact measurements of these instruments will vary depending on the manufacturer, but baritone is the largest among them while soprano is the smallest.

Key Areas Covered

1. What is a Tenor Ukulele
     – Definition, Features
2. What is a Concert Ukulele
     – Definition, Features 
3. Difference Between Tenor and Concert Ukulele
     – Comparison of Key Differences

Key Terms

Alto Ukulele, Tenor Ukulele, Concert Ukulele, Soprano Ukulele, Ukulele

What is a Tenor Ukulele

A tenor ukulele is a ukulele that is smaller than a baritone ukulele and larger than a concert ukulele. When compared to a concert ukulele, its scale is about two inches longer, and its neck is a little wider. Moreover, a tenor ukulele is heavier than a concert ukulele. This size of ukuleles are popular among professional musicians, but those with some experience and skill can also play it.

The larger size of a tenor ukulele results in a deeper and fuller sound. It also projects better and makes a louder volume than smaller ukuleles.  Since tenor ukuleles are larger in size, there is a wider space between the frets, which makes it ideal for fingerpicking. When compared to smaller ukuleles, they are also great for those with larger hands and fingers.  

What is a Concert Ukulele

A concert ukulele is a ukulele that is smaller than a tenor but larger than a soprano ukulele. It’s usually around 23 inches. It’s about an inch longer than a soprano and has a wider neck. While it’s heavier than a soprano, it’s not as heavy as a tenor. It’s scale around 15 inches. A concert ukulele has a fuller sound and warmer tone, and a louder volume than a soprano. Another name for this ukulele is alto ukulele.

A concert ukulele is a good combination of a soprano and tenor. Like the tenor, it has more frets, but it has the signature sound of the soprano with a touch more volume and tone. It has 15 – 18 frets and has a range of C4–C6.

Difference Between Tenor and Concert Ukulele

Definition

A tenor ukulele is a ukulele that is smaller than a baritone ukulele and larger than a concert ukulele, while a concert ukulele is a ukulele that is smaller than a tenor but larger than a soprano ukulele.

Size

Moreover, a tenor ukulele is larger than a concert ukulele. A concert ukulele is around 23 inches, while a tenor ukulele is around 26 inches.

Scale

The scale of a tenor ukulele is around 17 inches, while the scale of a concert ukulele is around 15 inches.

Sound

Since tenor ukuleles are larger, they have a deeper and fuller sound and louder volume.

Price

A tenor ukulele is more expensive than a concert ukulele.

String Tension

A tenor ukulele has a higher string tension than a concert ukulele.

Conclusion

Both tenor and concert are good choices if you are looking to buy a ukulele. Both produce somewhat similar sounds. The main difference between tenor and concert ukulele is that tenor ukulele is larger than a concert ukulele and produces a fuller sound.

Reference:

1. MarchukSam, Sam. “How to Choose the Right Ukulele: Tenor Ukuleles, Soprano Ukulele.” West Music.
2. “Ukulele Sizes Explained!” Kala Brand Music Co.

Image Courtesy:

1. “Ukulele-instrument-music-string” (CC0) via Pixabay
2. “Uke sizes and scale lengths” By Lardyfatboy – Own work (CC BY-SA 4.0) via Commons Wikimedia