Alan Johnson's ukulele arrangements at 4thPeg.com

Alan Johnson's ukulele arrangements

Songs arranged for the ukulele

I have a special place in my heart for instrumentals done on the ukulele. John King's masterful arranging and playing inspired me to reach beyond myself and to try to grow. But his inspiration demanded that I not just grow but also share. Dominic (Dominator) Pieranunzio is also an inspiration to those interested in ukulele instrumentals as is Curt Sheller. They have all accomplished so much and share just as much.

So I'd like to share some ukulele arrangements I've done. I'll add on as I get them down and also will be adding some type of sound so you can hear the arrangement. Download and enjoy.

Gaudete I always loved this one so I did up a uke arrangement for it. Hope you like it too.
O Tannenbaum I modeled this arrangement from Vince Guaraldi's great jazzy arrangement from "A Charlie Brown Christmas". What can I say? The man was a genius taken from us far too early. Love ya, Vince!
Christmas Time Is Here Another great from Vince Guaraldi's "A Charlie Brown Christmas". I threw in some variations from Brian Heffernan's YouTube version. Click here to see his YouTube video... a must see! Thanks for the inspiration and ideas, Brian!
Coventry Carol A traditional carol that sounds lovely on the uke. Can be a bit of a challenge but I think has the right amount of skill building exercise to be a fun one to tackle this holiday.
Holly and Ivy I think this sounds simple and very pleasant on a soprano uke. But I arranged it so I'm a bit biased it, ain't I?
Silent Night Of the arrangements I've done so far, I think this is my favorite. Rather easy but watch the harmonics at the 12th fret. If they prove too much of a challenge, play them open stringed and the piece will sound nice also.
Simple Gifts It's not a Christmas song but it's a favorite of mine and I think appropriate for this time of year.
Patapan A French Christmas Carol from the Burgundy region circa 1700. Simple melody and arrangement still challenging when played at tempo. Sounds very nice on a Soprano. Want more of a challenge? Bar the 7th fret and try playing it there!