music

MUSIC

In world news dominated by ‘bad’ news, nations at war with people suffering and dying, violent and random attacks on bystanders, women and children and intolerance of others’ race, religion and/or sexuality leading to violent extremism, we could be overcome at the evil perpetrated, man’s inhumanity to man. Thankfully, the creative genius of humanity comes to the fore in science, technology and the arts. Perhaps the foremost of the Arts is music, the language that crosses all boundaries. To begin the week with the regular class of Music Appreciation sets a tone of positivity, a kind of meditation giving impetus […]

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The Joy of Ukulele at U3A Box Hill

At U3A Box Hill, the sound of cheerful strumming and heartfelt singing can often be heard drifting from Strabane Hall. One of our most engaging and enjoyable courses, the Beginners Ukulele Class, is bringing members together through music, laughter, and learning. Under the patient and friendly guidance of Tutor John, participants are introduced to this wonderfully accessible instrument. The ukulele is known for its simplicity, making it an excellent choice for beginners, and this class provides a welcoming and supportive environment to learn the basics. No prior experience is necessary—just an enthusiasm to try something new! A Glimpse Into a […]

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Whitehorse Seniors Festival – Music Appreciation.

Monday 21st October, 9.45 – 11.15.As part of our contribution to the Whitehorse Seniors Festival anyone can sample our Musical Appreciation group. Tea and coffee provided. Music Appreciation: course code: 24MUS02Members with an interest in music from Folk to Renaissance, Baroque, Classical, and Contemporary periods are welcome to join. Programs feature documentaries, visiting professional musicians and excursions to concerts. Sessions are led by different presenters sharing their love of music. This year, visual presentations will be featured, with possible outings to music-related sites. About the image: “Instrumental Music” by Newman University is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0.

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The Fascinating History of the Ukulele

Musical instruments come in all shapes and sounds—stringed, wind, percussion, and more. Among these, the ukulele is a relatively recent addition. Well, fairly recent. The ukulele, or “uke”, first emerged toward the end of the 19th century. A member of the lute family, it’s a fretted chordophone that became synonymous with Hawaiian music and culture. The story begins around 1879-1880, when three woodworkers from Madeira, Portugal, migrated to Hawaii. Just 140 years later, the ukulele has become Hawaii’s national instrument. Curiously, the ukulele’s basic chords differ from traditional chordophones, and while some speculate that the density of its wood might […]

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Ukelele Class

Our long-awaited Ukelele sessions have begun. Handouts received & own or U3A ukes being tuned (as here), members are now practising 3 chords. And here is the homework reminder. 🙂

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