Best Ukuleles for the Classroom

Learning Music, Building Confidence, Having Fun!

From afterschool clubs to a dedicated curriculum, the role of the classroom ukulele in our schools is expanding every year.  Kala is proud to make a variety of models that continue to be embraced by educational programs all throughout the country.

Let’s get to know them!

Most Popular Ukuleles for Students:

THE WATERMAN®

Light, economical, and truly versatile, there are so many reasons why The Waterman is our reigning champ in schools, summer camps, outdoor clubs. They can be dropped, rinsed, scrubbed, and strummed with ease! Bundled with a custom tote, The Waterman is ideal for large groups of younger players. Tested for ages 3+

Grades Pre-K - 6

• Colorful
• Durable
• Easy to Clean 

MAKALA® SHARK & DOLPHIN

Stepping up to a walnut fretboard and bridge, The Makala Shark and Makala Dolphin give you plenty of value with an even wider selection of colors and styles. While they can’t go for a swim, the thick finish on both models allow for them to be routinely disinfected and wiped down. Give your students a clean and colorful experience with their very first wooden instrument!  Tested for ages 3+

Grades K - 6

• Colorful
• Projection & Sound
• Easy to Clean

MAKALA® CLASSIC

The Makala Classic offers that classic island tone and look, plain & simple. With a satin Mahogany finish, this series still keeps costs low while providing a more uniform look for the big concert and recital. The Makala Classic line offers our greatest variety of shapes and sizes, including models with EQ for amplified play.

Grades K - 12

• Projection & Sound
• Natural Look
• Size Variety and Electronics

KALA® KA-15 SERIES

The Kala® KA-15 Series is our flagship series, with the Soprano size — KA-15S — claiming the title of world's best-selling ukulele! Similar to the Makala® Classic Series in satin mahogany finish, the KA-15 Series offers upgraded tuning machines, Graphtech® NuBone nut and saddle, and subtle touches for some added Kala style! The KA-15 series includes the Soprano, Concert, and Tenor ukulele size.

Grades K - 12

• Projection & Sound
• Natural Look
• Upgraded Tuning Machines and Graphtech® NuBone components

KALA® KA-20 SERIES

Our only exotic wood ukuleles on this list, the KA-20 Series has allowed educators to pair visual variety with natural wood at a budget-friendly prince point. These ukuleles are made with satin Burled Meranti: a reliable instrument wood with plenty of character and personality in its unique wood grain. The KA-20 Series offers three core ukulele sizes — Soprano, Concert, Tenor — including models with EQ for amplified play.

Grades K - 12

• Reliability & Sound
• Exotic Wood
• Size Variety and Electronics
• Upgraded Tuning Machines and Graphtech® NuBone components

Extra Credit!

Designed with learning in mind, the following bundles each have their own unique approach to music education. Make no mistake, they deserve your attention too!

Kala Learn To Play Color Chord Ukulele

With the body of a Waterman ukulele, the Kala Learn To Play Color Chord series was created to assist with early chord education for both visual and tactile learners. The wonderfully talented Emily Arrow will be your guide through the Color Chord experience!

Kala Learn To Play Ukulele Starter Kit

Complete with a Satin Mahogany soprano ukulele, a Kala® Klipz Tuner, a quick start guide, a custom tote, and free online lessons, the Kala Learn To Play Ukulele Starter Kit is the perfect all-around bundle for a small group or adult learners.

We hope you found this guide helpful! For more information in our Kala Education program for educators only, visit us here.