Pa Mele 'O Hokulea 'Ukulele Academy

Come and play with us!

If you've ever wanted to play an instrument but were worried that the learning curve might be too much... think again. I can have you playing music by the end of your first lesson! No musical experience needed. My beginner's course is designed for the first timer.

If you've already had some experience playing and would like to broaden your repertoire, my Intermediate class awaits you. You should be able to play at least a dozen chords easily. We have a great time every week learning new songs, sharing the joy of making music.

All you need is your own instrument and the willingness to give it a try. Whether you want to play for personal interest or to become a part of the fast growing world wide community of ukulele enthusiasts, you'll find my classes lots of fun and a great place to start.

In the past, my students & I recorded two live albums. Not only was it big fun, this class project was a great learning tool. If you'd like to participate in possible future recording projects with us... join the group! We haven't set a date for the next albums yet, so stay tuned for more information.

Students have the opportunity to perform at a variety of public shows throughout the year. To participate, students must be currently enrolled to receive current charts and attend rehearsals. More details below.

To register for classes call or email me with your name, phone number and area code. Returning students may register at the first class meeting. Fees vary by location.

Private lessons are perfect of anyone that might need a slower paced lesson or want to move at a more advanced pace than the group lessons. We can supplement the group classes or develop an area of your personal interest. They are also great for kids. Children should be of reading age. Private lessons are typically in my home in Soquel or within local driving distance. Available Mon-Fri. Call for an appointment.

Michelle Kiba (831) 334-8537 or email me at: Ukalady@cruzio.com 


2013 Ukulele Class Schedule & Locations
 

Tuesdays in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz Art League

526 Broadway
(1 block off Ocean Ave)

 

6:00-7:00  Beginners

7:15-8:15 Returning Students

 

Jan 1 – Feb 5

Feb 19  –  March 26

April 9 – May 14

May 28 – July 2

July 16 – Aug 6
(No class on 7/ 30)

Sept 10 – Oct 15

Oct 22 – Dec 6 
(No class on 10/29 & 11/26)

Holiday show rehearsal 12/4
Holiday show 12/8

 

Wednesdays in San Jose

Yu Ai Kai Senior Center
588 North 4th Street

(Jackson Ave, cross street)

 

6:00-7:00  Returning Students

7:15-8:15 New Beginners 

 

Jan 2 – Feb 6

Feb 20 – March 27

April 10 – May 15

May 29 – July 3

July 17 – Aug 7
(No class on 7/31)

Sept 11 – Oct 16

Oct 22 – Dec 7
(No class on 10/30 & 11/27)


Holiday show rehearsal 12/5
Holiday show 12/8
 

 

Student Performance Opportunities


The Hayward Ukulele Festival of Northern California (April)
Cowboy Campfire

Aloha Campfire
Holiday Christmas Shows
 

Performance opportunities: Students are encouraged to sing and play for each other at our recitals nights (typically the last class of the session) where friends and family are welcome to join us. We also entertain at public venues throughout the year. Last year's show included the Meow Luau at the Animal Shelter, the Cowboy Campfire, Aloha Campfire, the Ukulele Festival of Northern California and Holiday shows. To participate, students must attend rehearsals and be currently enrolled in classes.



Course Description

Beginning Ukulele: You do not need any musical experience. This course is designed for students who have never played an instrument before. It is also a great refresher course for those who have some experience playing the ukulele. Students will be able to play 2- 3 songs by the end of the first lesson. Each time we meet, we will build on the previous lesson and add new skills, with chords, and new songs. (IMPORTANT! Registration closes after the first class meeting. If you can not make the first class, please sign up for the next session).

Continuing Ukulele: This course is for students that already play at least 8-12 chords proficiently. (If you need to ask "which chords?" you may not be ready. It's recommended you take the beginning class first). This class moves along. We focus on building song repertoire, learn new chords and developing advanced right and left hand techniques. Each 6-week session will feature a different theme of music (i.e. Rock, Hawaiian, Swing, Oldies, etc.) 

Class Objectives: Students will have a great time singing and learning to play the soprano, concert or tenor ukulele. (Sorry, my curriculum doesn't support the BARITONE ukulele-different tuning). We’ll cover a wide variety of music including, light Rock, Tin Pan Alley, easy Jazz, Hawaiian songs and more. Reading music is not a requirement nor will music theory be emphasized, however in the continuing classes we will occasionally explore basic theory elements to gain a better understanding of how music works. All classes are taught by watching, listening, singing and or course playing along.

Instruments/Equipment:  You must have a ukulele by the first class to participate. Please contact the instructor if you need information about how or where to buy a ukulele. Sorry, my curriculum does not support the baritone. Only Soprano, Concert and Tenor 'ukulele tuning.

It is HIGHLY recommended you bring a tape recorder to class. Recorded classes are helpful during practice at home and will help you learn new songs. 

 

Click here to open a Ukulele Chord Chart PDF   UkeChart.pdf