Local Students Learn the Ukulele

The ukulele is making headlines this week, as one of the world’s smallest orchestras heads out on a globe-trotting tour, performing at some of the world’s most prestigious music venues.
Now, the desert will have its own group of young up and coming ukulele players.
Sixteen fourth and fifth graders at James Madison Elementary, in Indio are the first to participate in the after school program, sponsored by the Stienway Society of Riverside County. The program is called “Ukes in Schools.”
The students were chosen by their teachers and principal to take free ukulele lessons.
They’ll learn how to play the instrument every Tuesday and can take the ukuleles home, to practice.
Due to lack of funding for music programs at the elementary level, this is music to the ears for everyone involved, especially the kids.

Fourth grader, Ashley Hodulik says, “I think playing the ukulele is really, really fun and I really want to come back next week, and sing to my parents when I get home and I think it’ll be a lot of fun!”

Even the principal is getting in on the action. He will learn to play the ukulele one day a week, alongside his students.