Ukulele, Singers, and Acoustic Instruments

Guys and Gals, our next sing along, will be in Encore Theater on Sunday, April 30 at 7:30 pm.  The theme is names of Guys and Gals.   Our programs are free, though we usually request a donation for the Benevolent Care Fund.

We send a small group to play with Intermissions each month. We would love to return to playing at Arbor Ridge too.

Come play with us — We meet weekly for practice on Tuesdays, 3:30 – 4:30 pm at the Encore Theater or via Zoom.  For information contact Becky Hedin, Director, at acousticats@riderwoodlife.com.

How we work. The group selects themes such as ‘Birds and Blooms’ or ‘Colors’ then members search for songs related to the theme. The director finds easy versions of these songs and posts them on the large screen in Encore. Hard copies are also given to members so each can practice during the week. When we are comfortable playing the songs we invite Riderwood residents and their friends to a sing-a-long program. These programs also are taken to Arbor Ridge and to Intermissions.

Song Sources. Check out the songs at http://www.doctoruke.com/.These have ukulele chord charts and a little ‘player’ so you can hear many of the songs. Another web site with lots of songs is http://kids.niehs.nih.gov/music.htm. Here you can listen to the music being played. There are no chord charts at this site but you can find some treasures.

What You Need & Need to Know. A willingness to try new material, a regular practice time, a 3-ring notebook (you might find one in the Treasure Chest), instrumental players, your own instrument, a folding music stand (optional). If you are purchasing an instrument here are some local stores…do call before going!

• • Chuck Levin’s in Wheaton 301-946-8808
  • House of Musical Traditions in Takoma Park 301-270-9090
  • Music and Arts in Laurel 240-568-0600
  • Ukulele note–the Kala,Lanikai, and Cordoba companies each have good ukuleles. You can purchase a soprano ukulele for under $50.00.

Ways to tune your instrument: With a piano, with an electronic tuner ($15.00 or less on Amazon.com), with a app on your phone–Ukulele Toolkit is very helpful, or with a computer…one place ishttp://www.get–tuned.com/online_ukulele_tuner.php

Special Notes. If you can’t attend a regular practice please inform Becky …via phone or email or cubby note (HS T19) or via a reliable friend.

Lessons: On www.youtube.com there are LOTS of how-to-play videos. Also, about once a year, several beginner lessons are offered to acquaint new people with ways to join in our fun. Watch the bulletin boards for these.