Thanks to groups like the Wellington International Ukulele Orchestraand the Play It Strange Trust the ukulele is becoming more and more prevalent in New Zealand. It's easy to see why, as ukes are lightweight, small, and pretty easy to learn quickly. Unlike recorder lessons in primary school, songs learnt on the ukulele are worth remembering and fun to play.
It really is super easy to play the uke, and websites like Ukulele Huntmake it easy to find the music for songs you want to play (yes, they've got 'Hey Ya').
It's not just here in New Zealand, either. Amanda Palmer (Dresden Dolls) has been touring round the world these last two years doing Ninja gigs on her days off which she announces on Twitter. She just shows up with her uke and does songs for whoever showed up for as long as they feel like it. A ukulele is perfect for this kind of thing, because it's small enough and light enough to take it with you.
Play It Strange have come to the party once again this year, allowing Auckland City Libraries to offer free ukulele lessons during NZ Music Month. These are popular events, so it's pretty essential that you book in for the lesson. Just phone us on 307 7780, or email Steven.Harley@aucklandcity.govt.nz to make a booking.
Did I mention how easy and fun this instrument is? I keep forgetting because I am having so much fun.
Ukulele lessons:
Tuesday 4, 18 and 25 May, 1:15pm, Central City Library
Other ukulele events:
Blockhouse Bay Community Library:
2 May, 2.30pm – The Grey Lynn Ukuladies
Grey Lynn Community Library
7 May, 7pm-9pm – Great Grey Lynn Uke Jam
21 May, 4pm – Grey Lynn Ukuladies
Mt Roskill Community Library
26 May, 1.30pm – Mt Roskill Primary Ukulele Band
Remuera Community Library
13 May, 11.30am – Meadowbank School Ukulele Group
~Ashley
Photo by http://www.flickr.com/ph otos/design-dog/ / CC BY 2.0
