A popular variation of the basic Travis fingerpicking pattern is the pinch (twist), hold, then inside, outside, inside strings. The American band Kansas uses this pattern in their hit song “Dust in the Wind.” The melody is contained in the fingerpicking, hence “chord melody.” This accompaniment pattern also works well for Bob Dylan’s “Blowin’ in the Wind.” Hence, the title “Travel with Travis in the Wind” for high G ukulele.
When I teach Travis picking, I play the beginning of “Dust in the Wind” for instant recognition.
It’s possible to fingerpick with only two fingers: thumb and index.
It’s good practice to try two fingers first. Then graduate to three fingers: thumb, index, and middle fingers.
Don’t immediately jump into using four fingers: p i m a.
Since printing this piece at the nearby library, I decided I really should quote “Blowin’ in the Wind.”
Pick! Pluck! Play!
“Travel with Travis in the Wind” is aimed at the second level in the “Pick! Pluck! Play!” book.
The last page “Ukulele Chords” of the new book contains a table of ukulele chord diagrams ordered alphabetically for the chords used in the book.
I’m thrilled about releasing these books as a precursors (prerequisite) to the 12 Chinese Zodiac Suite, which contains three skill levels.
I am recording all my new compositions in the 100 Days of Ukulele 2025 project. To me, this challenge means uploading a new video recording of a new piece each consecutive day from 1st March to 8th June 2025.
For other recent compositions and arrangements by Anne Ku, please visit the Daily Music Writing Project or scroll through the consecutive blog posts.
