Katoomba will be buzzing with ukuleles on the weekend of February 13 and 14, with an audience of around 8,000 people expected for the 7th annual Blue Mountains Ukulele Festival.
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With over 120 acts and five free workshops it is the largest ukulele festival in the world. And it’s free.
This home-grown community celebration of the ukulele is run entirely by the volunteers of the Blue Mountains Ukulele Group (The Blue Mugs) and friends. The Blue Mountains Cultural Centre, the Carrington Hotel and The Paragon Café also generously provide venues for the free festival.
One of the attractions of the event will be the beginners workshop with John Chandler, ‘Ukulele John’, on Saturday at 10.30am at the Blue Mountains Cultural Centre. All ages are welcome; from 8 to 108 years old, although children should be accompanied by an adult. While covering the basic concepts there will be time for some fun too.
During the class Ukulele John will teach some of the basic chords, the fundamentals of strumming, basic ukulele technique and play some familiar songs. You will be encouraged to sing along during the workshop (prerequisite is shower singing and your own uke). This workshop is aimed at people who have not played before or who need a refresher. Ukuleles, starting at $40, can be bought from some of the festival’s vendors but get there early to take part in any of the workshops.
For more information visit www.bluemugs.com.au or www.facebook.com/bluemountainsukefest.
