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The easiest way to play minor scales is to use the relative major scale (the major scale that has the same key signature, i.e. the same sharps and flats, as the minor scale). For example, C major and A minor have the same key signature (no sharps or flats), so the two scales have the same notes. So if you need an A minor scale, you can use the C major scale. The scale won't start on "A", but you can deal with that (remember how the "F" pattern scale doesn't start on the tonic note either). You'll have all of the notes of the scale under your fingertips, and that's what we're looking for here: a way to play all of the notes of the minor scale in sequence. Every major scale has a relative minor, starting on the 6th note ("La")
of the major scale:
Notice that I'm not saying that an A minor chord and a C major chord have the same notes in them, but that an A minor scale and a C major scale have the same notes in them. So now, with, no additional work, you can play both major and minor scales in any key! Take some time to practice your scales. I know, I sound like your
piano teacher. But it really is a good skill to add to your uke playing.
First of all, as you practice scales, you'll be improving your speed and
dexterity, something you'll need as you move on to fingerpicking styles
of playing. And as you start to learn how to play solos or do improvisation
(Hawaiians call it "pa`ani"), you'll need to be able to play scales in
any key without having to stop and think about it.
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