Ormskirk Ukulele Club looks for new members

Sep 27 2012 by Jamie Bowman, Ormskirk Advertiser

A NEW community music group is channelling the spirit of George Formby after forming Ormskirk’s first ukulele club.

The group, which played its first gig this week, performing for freshers at Edge Hill University, is hoping to encourage musicians and beginners of all ages to join the club.

Jayne Marsh, a founder member, said: “Playing the ukulele in a group is something completely different.

“You get to meet new people and if you are having a bad day there is nothing better than getting your uke out and having a good old strum.

“I never thought I would be able to play a musical instrument all my life, but with the ukulele you don’t have to be good to enjoy it – it’s all about having fun.”

First popularised by the legendary George Formby, the ukulele has recently undergone a massive revival, with comedian Frank Skinner one of many celebrities expressing a love for the instrument.

Acts as diverse as Portishead, Van Morrison and Florence and the Machine have all recently used the ukulele on record.

Jayne said: “People who have never played an instrument in their lives are increasingly finding themselves attracted to taking up the ukulele, as the popularity of the instrument grows.”

The club are now embarking on a programme of events and concerts, where they will play at venues all over the region, including residential care homes.

For more information on the Ormskirk Ukulele Club, please see the Club’s website at www. ormskirkukuleleclub.org.uk

The club meets every Thursday evening at 7.15pm at the Farmers Club, 65 Burscough Street, Ormskirk.

New members, including complete beginners, as well as more experienced ukulele players, are welcome.