National Play Your Ukulele Day 2023: National Play Your Ukulele Day is observed annually on May 2. The day is commemorated to increase interest in the instrument and to encourage those who already play it to play their favourite songs. The ukulele is a member of the guitar family of musical instruments. Unlike the guitar, which has six strings, the ukulele only has four. In terms of dimensions, the ukulele is considerably smaller than the guitar. This makes the instrument easier to transport and play for individuals with smaller hands, such as children.
National Play Your Ukulele Day: A Brief History
The first thing to understand about the ukulele is that it has four playable notes: G, C, E, and A. The origin of the word ‘ukulele’ is Hawaiian. The word’s meaning in the language is ‘jumping insect.’ The name was presumably chosen because the fingers of a skilled musician resemble fleas jumping on the strings. Even though the instrument’s name has Hawaiian origins, Portuguese immigrants brought it to the Hawaiian island.
In the early 20th century, the ukulele was introduced to mainstream music, and it soon became a popular jazz instrument. In addition to country and mainstream music, the ukulele, also known as the ‘uke,’ is a component of ukulele music. You must have witnessed musical luminaries such as Jimmie Rodgers, Ernest V, Taylor Swift, Eddie Vedder, and George Harrison performing with the ukulele. The dexterous melodies of the ukulele make it the ideal accompaniment to the majority of musical genres. And naturally, those who sing cover songs prefer to sing to the ukulele’s cadence.
Mike Lynch, also known as “Ukulele Mike,” is responsible for the creation of National Play Your Ukulele Day. Lynch was a school teacher and online ukulele instructor when the first Ukulele Day was celebrated in 2011. He passed away in January 2018, but National Play Your Ukulele Day honours his memory. Those who appreciate music and enjoy playing the instrument celebrate the day. This is also an excellent time to master the ukulele!
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ACTIVITIES FOR THE DAY
Play your ukulele
Observe National Play Your Ukulele Day is observed by strumming along to your favourite songs on the ukulele. Perform a concert for yourself by singing along. This is the ideal method to celebrate the occasion.
Publish your work online
Additionally, you can upload a video of your performance for your peers to view. You can also request that your musician peers post videos of their ukulele performances on National Play Your Ukulele Day.
Master playing the ukulele
Not familiar with the ukulele? Fret not. It is observed by enrolling in ukulele courses. Take the instrument one day at a time and have joy with it.
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Five UKULELE FACTS THAT WILL BLOW YOUR MIND
The “Low-G” tuning of the ukulele consists of a high “low” string.
The banjo ukulele exists.
Or a ‘banjolele.’
The instrument does not originate from Hawaii.
It was introduced by Portuguese immigrants to the island.
Nobody knows its inventor
The ukulele’s inventor remains obscure.
Harrison was an avid collector.
He amassed a large number of ukuleles throughout his career.
WHY WE LOVE THIS DAY
It unites us Music is one of the few things we all appreciate in life. Music and musical instruments unite us, so what better way to commemorate this unique bond than with National Play Your Ukulele Day?
Relieves tension
Singing or playing a musical instrument can be effective tension relievers due to music’s calming effect. It is a day to celebrate and appreciate music’s many qualities.
Makes us joyful
Watching music videos, listening to music, and performing music are immediate mood boosters. It helps us appreciate the simple pleasures of existence.
NATIONAL PLAY YOUR UKULELE DAY DATES
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | May 2 | Tuesday |
| 2024 | May 2 | Thursday |
| 2025 | May 2 | Friday |
| 2026 | May 2 | Saturday |
| 2027 | May 2 | Sunday |
