|
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
In music, there are no small parts even when it involves a lot of small guitars.
Pukekohe-based ukulele players, the Pukeleles, are set to host a charity concert at St Andrew’s Centre in Waiuku on August 2.
Money raised will be donated to such good causes as Ronald McDonald House, Auckland
Hospital and Starship Children’s Hospital.
The group of more than 30 regularly entertains audiences across the region – they’re often
welcome guests at local retirement villages in particular.
“We’ve never really focused on the money, and we don’t really want to, but we’re happy
to help a worthy cause when we can,” ukulele teacher Caroline Zeeman says.
Established in 2018 by a small group of people looking for a shared hobby, the group
has since grown over recent years into a community of ukulelists – yes, that’s a real
word! – who meet regularly to rehearse,perform and share a laugh.
Their lively shows have earned the Pukeleles a reputation for energy and enthusiasm, with
performances showcasing a wide range of songs from Kiwi favourites to ABBA classics and much more.
While leading the group of more than 30 can be difficult at times, Zeeman says it is also
very rewarding.
“It can be quite a challenge working with 35 opinionated adults, but it’s super wholesome
and a lot of fun,” she confirms. “We get a lot out of it because we help make people so happy when we play.”
Ukulelists tend to share similarly fun, quirky and upbeat characteristics, she says.
“You need to have a certain type of personality to play the ukulele – you have to be ready
to have a good time and help others enjoy themselves too.”
For Zeeman and others in her group, the ukulele is more than just an instrument it’s a
catalyst for connection.
“It’s like it’s a tribal thing. Playing the ukulele together creates a bond between us all,”
Zeeman adds.
“We focus very much on the singing as well as playing, so it sounds really cool and we all feel uplifted by it.”
For details about this group and their next show, search ‘Pukeleles’ on Facebook.
