LIVERPOOL - The sound of ukuleles strumming will soon be heard under the roof of the Best Western in Liverpool.
The seventh International Ukulele Ceilidh is set to take place Oct. 13 and 14.
Martin Hilliard, chairman of the organizing committee, said he’s hoping the Astor Theatre will be full for the concert scheduled for 7 p.m. on Oct. 14. He said the concert would feature Ralph Shaw, The Chalmers Doane Trio and the Doanes.
The first day of the International Ukulele Ceilidh will begin with three workshops, each from 2-3:30 p.m. Following the workshops, there’s a free open mic from 4-5 p.m.
“Seven o’clock is a strum and sing-a-long,” said Hilliard.
That strum and sing-a-long is set to feature the South Shore Ukulele Players, Mike Diabo and the University of Maine at Machias Ukulele Club. To end the first day of the ceilidh is a jam session, which is free.
On the second day, things are scheduled to kick off in the morning, with three workshops from 9-10:30 a.m., three from 10:30-11 a.m. and three from 2-3:30 p.m. The workshops are on a variety of subjects, but an example of one would be learning to play the surf music of the 1960s.
The entire event will wrap up with the final concert at the Astor, which Hilliard said the committee is eager to sell tickets for.
Hilliard said those who attend workshops would have the opportunity to enhance their ukulele skills.
“And the rest of it is just a good time,” he said.
Go online: To learn all about the seventh International Ukulele Ceilidh, visit http://www.ukuleleceilidh.ca/. To book tickets for the concert at the Astor Theatre, visit https://secure.ticketpro.ca/?lang=en&server=ww3#achat_AST14JS17 or visit the Astor at 59 Gorham St. in Liverpool.
Did you know?
The following people will be delivering workshops:
Ralph Shaw
Chalmers Doane
Mike Diabo
Sandra Obritsch
Gene Nichols
Fast facts about ukulele music:
- Ukulele is the traditional Hawaiian name that was given to a small instrument called the machete?
- The Internet has played a big role in the ukulele’s increasing popularity
- Ukulele lessons are offered in Liverpool
