August 30th, 2022 • Music Education
All About Explorers: Part 2 — UKULELE!
The academic year is off to a great start here at the Omaha Conservatory—can you believe it’s almost September? There’s lots of excitement still to come as the leaves begin to turn—if you want to learn more about lessons, classes, and so many of the other amazing things we have going on at OCoM, check out our website!
Today, we’re back with another blog feature on one of our amazing Explorers classes—Ukulele Explorers! As we mentioned in our previous post, we have launched a blog series featuring FIVE of our spectacular course offerings—Explorers classes! For the next few weeks, we will be featuring each of these awesome classes in a blog post to give our community some better insight on what they are all about—who they’re for, what type of activities you can expect to participate in, and what’s cool about each unique class/instrument. If you’ve never heard of these awesome group learning opportunities, you’re in for a treat. Each “explorers” class, no matter the subject or instrument, is perfect for beginners and first-timers of all ages, and introduces you to the basics of instrumental technique and covers various styles and genres of music. There’s truly something for everyone with these courses. You can take a peek at all of the explorers offerings as well as other classes available at the Omaha Conservatory here.
Next up—Ukulele Explorers!
What is Ukulele Explorers?
Ukulele Explorers is a unique and hands-on class that will introduce students to the basics of playing and tuning a ukulele, led by Artist-Faculty member Kevin Sullivan. Students will start by exploring scales, strumming patterns, and notation and tablature, and will eventually be able to strum through some of their very favorite songs—all in an enjoyable, supportive, and engaging group environment.
Why should I enroll, and what will I learn?
Students will learn proper playing technique, including holding, tuning, and various forms of strumming the ukulele. Participants will also practice reading notation and tablature, scales, learn basic chords, and apply their knowledge to eventually play their favorite songs on their own! With new techniques, ideas, and material every week, students will enjoy the consistently fresh and fun class atmosphere while not feeling like they fall behind if they miss a week. Students will leave with a solid foundation of beginner skills, be prepared for future advanced classes, and be a part of our great community at the Omaha Conservatory.
Who is Ukulele Explorers for?
This class is for any student ages 6–8 looking to to explore the ukulele in a fun, low-pressure environment! Ukulele explorers is totally beginner-friendly (no experience necessary!)—just bring a great attitude and eagerness to learn. Ukulele Explorers is a prerequisite to Famous Strums 101 and Rock Lab, so this class is also perfect for students with big rock & roll dreams for the future.
Which styles of music will be featured in the class?
In addition to learning how to hold, tune, and strum the ukulele, students will get to apply their knowledge to their favorite songs of any genre….from “Somewhere over the Rainbow” to “I Love Rock & Roll!” Other styles include Island Music, Reggae, Pop, Rock, Americana, and even film music.
Are instruments provided for this class?
Instruments are not provided for this course, but upon registration, we will send you some recommendations on instrument purchasing.
When and what time?
Fall trimester runs from October 1—November 19. Ukulele Explorers meets at the following time(s):
Saturdays (ages 6-8) from 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM.
How much?
$140/8-week trimester. However, we offer financial aid opportunities for all students! To apply for aid for Ukulele Explorers, first complete this form.
Learn more, explore all of the details, and ENROLL TODAY in Ukulele Explorers by visiting us on our website!