The Free Paint and Play Ukulele Workshop with Tricity Vogue is exactly as described. Gathered in the Rae Macintosh Music Room on Queensferry Street, people of all ages and abilities are provided with a ukulele, tuner and song sheets, whilst being instructed by the host of the Ukulele Cabaret show, Tricity Vogue. With step-by-step instructions, the group went through classic songs, such as ‘You Are My Sunshine’ and ‘Que Sera Sera’, with each finger positioning thoroughly explained and practised, so that the class could eventually sing along with their playing.
The space provided is large enough to incorporate whoever turns up, and the seemingly endless supply of ukuleles means that everyone gets to play. Vogue was mindful of the differing levels of ability, giving more advanced players different strum patterns whilst the beginners practised the new chords. The two hour workshop was split in half, increasing the difficulty in the songs as the session went on. Although not everyone stayed for the whole time, those that did were also treated to a performance by the instructor, who ended the session with several songs from her cabaret show.
There was an option to paint and decorate the instrument for those that bought one to take home, but most of the session was spent practising songs. The group was very mixed, with lots of kids getting involved and enjoying the workshop as much as the adults did. It was a great chance to have a go at an unusual instrument for free, with no pressure to buy anything, although I personally couldn’t resist taking my masterpiece home.
