The humble uke is having a major renaissance
For decades the ukulele has occupied a less-than-dignified position as the staple instrument of bad comedians and Foghorn Leghorn cartoons. While it is true the instrument enjoyed a certain popularity in the early 20th century, these days it isn’t experiencing a “comeback” so much as a renaissance, in which its capacity as a beautiful, serious instrument is being explored to an extent never before seen.
To meet the growing demand for and interest in the unique “jumping flea,” local musician and instructor Butch Ross is conducting a weekend ukulele clinic Feb. 27-28.
The weekend kicks off with a workshop dinner and jam in a private home at 6:30 p.m. on Friday, hosted by the Signal Mountain ukulele group Days of Wine & Ukuleles. Saturday classes will be held from 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. at the Mountain Arts Community Center, 809 Kentucky Ave., on Signal Mountain. Participants will receive instruction in strumming, chord basics, navigating keys on the ukulele, and more.
The weekend concludes with a nearby house concert featuring Butch Ross, with an opening set by local singer/songwriter Ken Hicks.
All ages and learning levels are welcome to register for the workshop (bring your own instrument). The cost for the weekend is $60, with $5 for lunch on Saturday. The house concert on Saturday is open to the public with prior RSVP, and a $15 suggested donation. The concert is included for workshop participants.
To register, or for more information and weekend schedule, call Trish Wileman at (941) 330-5547 or email tfwileman@gmail.com