The Ukes on the Move project offers the spark to ignite the imaginations of young and old, while also providing the experience of success in acquiring a skill that is tangible and real.
After five 45-60 minute lessons in a single week, or 5 weekly sessions, participants will learn the 3-4 simple chords and basic strumming techniques, enough to be able to play hundreds, even thousands of songs. Built into the program will be continued access to ukulele workshops and jam sessions after the initial five-session residency -- to help ensure sustained success. Another follow-up component is a five-session songwriting residency so that ukulele players can acquire the skills and confidence to write their own songs.
Ukes on the Move flyer for the Viers Mill Elementary School program
MATCHING FUNDS NEEDED
Carpe Diem Arts was awarded a Wheaton Cultural Project grant from the Arts & Humanities Council of Montgomery County to bring our Ukes on the Move program to a Title I elementary school in Wheaton. The program will start with the Fall 2022 semester. Third graders will be given a ukulele of their own to keep, they will learn how to play the ukulele, and they will perform at their school and at a nearby senior center. The grant only pays for a portion of the program, so if you would like to support the purchase of a ukulele for a child, please donate below.
We have also received a grant from the Foley Hoag Foundation to serve Oak View Elementary School with our Ukes on the Move program!
And the good news keeps coming, we have a grant from the Nora Roberts Foundation to serve a third elementary school this school year as well.
Special thanks to the Sparkjoy Foundation for their support of all our ukulele programs.
We are so proud of our 3rd grade songwriters!
“I love the fact that people don't see the ukulele as a serious instrument. A lot of people see it as more of a toy, and I love that because it just proves that people aren't intimidated by the instrument. They aren't afraid to pick it up.”
— Jake Shimabukuro