Ever wanted to learn the ukulele? Did you know that you can even get a licence in it? A new free online resource for ukulele enthusiasts aimed at children and young people has been designed by Rockjam in partnership with Music Generation Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown (dlr).
Rockjam is a new music course that enables young people ages 7 to 17 and adults to become part of their own rock or pop band, learn to play new instruments and write their own music.
‘The Ukulele Licence has been in development for some months now’ said Music Generation Development Officer for Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown, Majella Boland.
‘We’re so glad we’re in a position to launch it and share it with children, young people and their families at this time. We hope the online tutorials, which are all designed to be easy-to-follow and suitable for whatever level you’re at, will continue to keep music alive in the home, back garden or wherever you sit with your ukulele!’
In a series of online video tutorials, this course will offer musicians of all levels of experience a chance to earn their ‘Ukulele Licence’ from the safety and comfort of their homes while schools are temporarily closed.
The primary goal of this initiative is to give people free access to quality music education. Designed for all age groups, the series has easy-to-follow modules delivered by musicians from the Rockjam team.
Together there are a total of 8 modules and 40 tutorial videos on the Ukulele Licence YouTube Channel.
There are no exams as part of this programme as the focus is on progress and self-learning. A series of free PDFs with things like chord charts, strumming techniques, hints and tips will also be available for participants.
Music Generation is Ireland’s national music education programme, co-funded by U2, The Ireland Funds, the Department of Education and Skills and Local Music Education Partnerships. The programme is currently established in 25 different cities and counties, including Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown, creating some 50,000 opportunities for children and young people to make and create music annually.