Seasoned musicians to pull heartstrings at ukulele event

A Busselton not-for-profit has pulled strings to gather top ukulele players from the region and beyond to host four interactive workshops and a concert. Busselton Ukulele Strummers will aim to celebrate the diverse talent and entertainment the region has to offer, with president Barbara Taylor telling the Times this would not be their first big show in town. “It’s really good to bring over international and national artists and accomplished professional musicians,” she said. “Anyone who has come to any of our workshops in the past has benefited from fabulous tuition, wonderful concerts and exploring the ukulele in all its facets and musical genres. The Wild Women of Anywhere Beach, from New South Wales, will give three workshops on September 18 and 19 focusing on different themes. “For example one workshop, which is called Naughty and Nice, will include songs from the 20s and 30s, so that’s more traditional stuff, and on the Friday night we’ve got a concert where they will perform and also invite people to bring their ukuleles and join in for the second half,” Taylor said. “There will be modern genres as well, depending on what workshop people register for, so there’s a bit from everything like jazz and contemporary music. “I think the thing about the ukulele is there is something for everybody, because the teachers are very accomplished at setting the workshops across all levels. “Several years ago, not many people could play the ukulele, but it’s become so popular, and there’s obviously a wide range of talent. “I think my goal is for somebody to pick up something that’s different and new for them, and to improve their skills, and also their repertoire.” Those keen on registering for the September 18 and 19 workshops, or securing tickets for the concert, should head to the Busselton Ukulele Strummers Facebook page.