There has been a real revival in playing the ukulele with nearly 50 groups in the North East. This covers groups catering largely for retired folk through to an increasing number of primary schools setting up their own ukulele bands. Groups not only create the chance to learn and play the ukulele but also give a fun social activity for many folk living on their own. Groups also provide entertainment for care homes, nurseries and other community groups. Ukulele players love getting together to play and share but there are not many opportunities to do this other than on the periphery of professional festivals. These are great but can be a bit expensive for many players on a restricted budget. The Ukes of the North Club Festival will provide a full day’s strumming giving the opportunity for amateur ukulele clubs, groups and soloists to take to the stage and share their music. All performers will have their own dedicated slot with staging and amplification to show them off to their finest.

What we'll deliver:

• A ukulele festival for local amateur players to perform.
• For north east ukulele players to share and learn from each other.
• To make arrangements for festivals to be arranged for future years.

Why it's a great idea:

Ukulele groups provide fun and social activity for their members which is particularly helpful those living alone or having a limited circle of friends. Many older folk find the atmoshere of ukulele clubs welcoming and supportive. The ukulele is an instrument which, whilst easy to strat to play can allow progress from happy strummer to virtuoso. This makes it particularly useful for working with young children. Many ukulele groups are fairly small and, particularly in rural communities, can be quite isolated. The chance for groups and individuals to come together is important to learn from others and share songs. The Ukes of the North festival will enable groups and players of all abilities to perform their music to others improving self esteem and just feeling pretty good about themselves. We hope to develop a network which will continue links between groups providing a springboard for future events. Non-players will also be invited into the festival to spread the word.

Steps to get it done:

• All ukulele clubs in North East contacted - end of March
• All performers to have timetable for their performance - end May
• All funding in place - end June
• Ukes of the North Festival - 11th July
• Programme of events for ukulele players across the region developed - end October

The Ukes of the North is seeking funding to allow us to allow free entry for performers. All too often the entrance fee to festivals is a major obstacle to people having the chance to play.