UKE can do it!

A lively ukulele band based at Mount Zion Church, Cliviger, will be extremely busy over the Christmas period, with performances at rest homes, to local groups, and a significant selection of carols at the Musical Memories group, which uses music to help those suffering from alzheimers.

The group, led by its founder, Alan Scholes, finds they have at least a couple of bookings a month at special events in aid of the hospice, entertaining in residential homes, churches, and fundraising charity events.

“It is nice to feel the group is appreciated and can help in these different ways,” said Alan. He started the group six years ago, and it now has more than 30 members, with an average of 25 at the Monday night practice sessions.

He is delighted that, over the years, they have had at least 60 people of all ages involved in several beginners’ groups, introducing the art of playing to young and old, men and women.

Alan, now 79, started teaching chemistry at Barden High School, Burnley, where he stayed for 32 years before retiring at 50.

When he celebrated his 70th birthday at the church, he did it with a song on his lips. In fact, 70 hymns and songs – a five-hour marathon, when the ukulele and guitar figured as he raised more than £1,000 towards an extension fund at the church.

“It is a lovely instrument and lends itself to many musical opportunities,” he explained. “We have a wide range of music – and some members who might not manage the ukulele play the washboard or even tambourines,” he added. “There is something for everyone.”

NorthernLife Dec/Jan/Feb 25/26