When Pat and Colin Hamblyn of Windaroo began their Beenleigh Ukulele Group in 2013 they had no idea it would last nearly a decade. Indeed, it shows no signs of slowing down with a devoted number of Ukulele players meeting twice a month in the Beenleigh Neighbourhood Centre.
The ukulele is naturally associated with Hawaii and its Pacific neighbours. The four stringed instrument is remarkably adaptable far beyond island songs.
“There is scarcely a song or tune that could not be played and sung with a ukulele,” says Pat Hamblyn.
The sessions are open to anyone with a love of music and a ukulele of their own. Compared to other instruments, ukuleles come cheaply. A beginner’s version will set you back around $50, and advanced up to $200.
The Beenleigh Ukulele Group (BUG) meets on the first and third Friday each month. Regardless if you are a novice or advanced, the BUG welcomes you.
Costs are kept at a minimum. A gold coin donation to the Beenleigh Neighbourhood Centre and $1 for coffee and biscuits in the ‘intermission’ is all it will cost you.
Contact Pat and Col Hamblyn for further information on 3808 0389. Before you know it Burl Ives’ Pearly Shells will emit from your ukulele with a smile on your dial. – Stig R. Hokanson
