Ukulele course at Stamford Arts Centre strikes a chord with class
Absolute beginners became ukulele-strumming musicians following a fun lesson at Stamford Arts Centre.
The Saturday course saw the merry band get straight into learning chords, and by the end they were playing with some confidence.
Chris Gammon - a school teacher during the week - who led the course with his partner, Freyja, said: "The group made fantastic progress and was playing the first song and singing along within 30 minutes of starting, and it only got better from there.
"The enthusiasm was incredible, and even though they had sore fingers by the end, they all left with massive smiles and new hobby to get stuck into. There is clearly a lot of hidden talent in Stamford and this course is the perfect way to develop it!"
Elaine Allwood from Carlby, who took part, said: “Chris and Freyja created a great atmosphere and it was not at all intimidating for those who are not musical - I definitely fall into that category!
“This is the first musical I instrument I've tried to learn since the recorder at secondary school. As a result of Saturday, I, along with a lot of other beginners, have signed up for the next class in February.
“The outstanding funny moment for me was watching back the video of us performing. You can see us all happily strumming along - then the look of worry on our faces when we knew we needed to change chords - and the satisfaction when we achieved it. Well, nearly!
“The good thing about learning as a group is that if you miss a chord you can just carry on and pick up when you can; you do not feel pressurised like might with one-to-one tuition. It was an excellent day in a lovely venue.”
Chris and Freyja have two more courses at Stamford Arts Centre - Next Step Beginners on February 22 and Intermediate Ukulele on April 18. To book click here or call 01780 763 203.
More courses are also due to take place later in the year with details available here nearer the time, and in the Mercury.
