There is music in all of us, and ukulele is a key to help easily unlock your musical joy.
Yes you can learn on your own from a book or on the internet, but there’s a whole lot more learning that happens when you’re part of a group led by a skilled teacher.
Joining a Ukulele Beginners Class launches you with learning the how-to of the instrument. But it’s also about having fun learning with other people. It’s playing the uke and singing. It’s realizing – “I can do this!” and “Hey – we sound pretty good together!”
A note of caution - ukulele can be addictive!
About Tony
Tony Hansen is a musician and singer who loves seeing others discover the joys of music. In 2015 he set out on a ukulele teaching adventure that's spreading throughout Taranaki.
Growing up in a musical family in Northland and the Manawatu, I learned songs on guitar by listening to the radio and records. I was part of the gigging gospel choir Jubilation in Auckland in the 1990's, and loved the singing highs from weekly practicing and performing. When we moved our family to Taranaki, playing music with friends sustained me.
In 2014 I caught up with an Aussie mate who with his partner was teaching ukulele. The more I looked into it, the more I thought “Yes, I could do this!” In a classic “empty nest” response after our daughters left home, I left my job of 9 years and pushed the boat into music teaching waters.
I love seeing people discover being musical with others - the magic of the 4 strings on a sound box, held in your own hands. The smiles and connections that people make with each other as they learn is so good to see. Everyone can sing, and develop their singing – it’s about joining in and having a go. We often start with voice warm-ups and I teach simple harmony singing.
HOW IT WORKS:
To get started, do an Intro and a Beginners' Class (see the home page).
Then you can join one of 5 Ukestras where you can sit with more experienced players who can offer tips. There’s a little more “variety and stretch” in these groups so having coaches around you is helpful. Ukestras are weekly happenings in social spaces.
In 2024 the 5 options areThe Paritutu Bowling Club (Mon + Wed 7pm), The Fitz cafe/bar (Tue + Wed 10am) and Butlers Reef in Oakura (Thurs 1.30pm). We play for a while, learn a new song each week, have a pause for a drink and a natter, then play some more! Each of these groups has a bass player too, and there are opportunities for vocalists to lead songs.
Doing this regularly brings people together - many friendships have developed and a strong sense of community. It’s a ukulele thing! As confidence grows, people tell stories of singing at family events, and having their grandchildren singing along, and wanting to learn the uke too! Warms my heart that does.
Combined ukestras of 20-30 people busk in town, play at community events and market days.
It all starts with picking up a ukulele…..
I'd love for you to join us! Please get in touch.