Ukulele group strums a cord with Tweed Seniors
06 October 2022
Twice a month a group of Tweed Seniors get together to jam classics by Sam Cooke, Patsy Cline and the Beatles, to name a few.
The group’s instrument of choice is the humble ukulele or ‘uke’ if you’re down with the lingo, a small four-stringed, guitar-like instrument commonly associated with music from Hawaii.
The group is part of the Fun Activities for Banora Senior’s (FABS) program which hosts an array of weekly interest and hobby-based groups at the Banora Point Community Centre.
FABS is currently celebrating its 15th year of providing Tweed Senior’s with a space to foster community connections and enjoy themselves over similar interests, such as strumming a ukulele!
Marinella, who now runs the ukulele sessions said she began coming to the group after starting to feel like she was a bit of a loner.
“When I retired, I would do things like art and music at home on my own,” she said.
“Coming here and being with everyone – it’s joyful and makes you feel great.”
Next to Marinella is Terri, a talented musician said to be versed in several instruments. Both lead the group through a range of songs that end with cheers and laughter.
Members stress that you don’t have to be a master of strings to be part the group - in fact, beginners are encouraged. Participants can hone their skills or perfect their vocals, although that isn’t the focus. Participants are there more for the social connection and the fun they have playing a simple tune together.
“The space is so supportive whatever classes you do,” added Lisa who loves the social aspect of the group the most, and of FABS in general.
She said it was tough not being able to meet up during COVID-19. Throughout that time, she said some in the Ukulele group would meet and play songs in the park albeit socially distanced.
Esther, who has been with the group for a few years laughs as she remembers the time, they got her husband to play shakers at the back of the room while they played.
“We make it a lot of a fun,” she laughed.
The Ukulele group meets the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month from 2.15 pm to 4 pm at the Banora Point Community Centre.
For more info about FABS programs contact Banora Point Community Centre on 07 5569 3162.