(c) Jane Smith
The Ukelele
The name ukulele (“uke” to afficianados) comes from the Hawaiian for “jumping flea”, an allusion to the rapid movement of the player's fingers …..
Everybody should have and play a ‘UKE’ - it's so simple to carry with you and it is one instrument you can’t play and not laugh!
(Or so said George Harrison - did you know that, he along with fellow Beatles John Lennon and Paul McCartney played the ukulele? All were huge fans of Britain’s most famous player, George Formby - although he often played a bangolele).
... Anyone can learn to play; You don’t need to read music or to have a musical background ....
Ukelele Group One meets at Hanover Court from 9.30-11.30 every Monday. The group welcomes u3a members with some ukulele experience who are keen to develop their strumming, picking and singing skills in a friendly, fun environment. The group plays a wide range of music from traditional to modern. There is a fee is of £1 per week to cover room hire and refreshments. The group currently has some vacancies. Contact Group Coordinator Joan Hoddinott for more information.
Ukelele Group Two meets at at Hanover Court from 9.30-11.30 every Tuesday. This group is more suitable for beginners and is more for people who are looking for a bit of a singalong. The group sometimes performs at care homes and the like. The group currently has a waiting list to join. Contact Group Coordinator Will McCutcheon for more details.