What's that sound? SMS students learn the ukulele

Those walking past the music rooms of Solvay Middle School may have recently heard a different kind of instrument being played. It has four strings, is smaller than most musical instruments, is fairly easy to learn, and has been featured in popular Disney movies like “Lilo and Stitch.”
 
Students from SMS have been invited to take part in a ukulele class, taught by SMS Music Teacher Chris Jabot and funded through the 21^st Century Learning Grant Award. The class consists of a group of ten students and meets once a week. At each class, students learn to tune, care for, and play a soprano ukulele.
 
“Coupled with its smaller size, the ukulele is a very accessible instrument for people to pick up and learn,” said Mr. Jabot. “The group is really enjoying getting to work with such a unique instrument.”
 
Students have had enough meetings where they now know enough chords to play a variety of popular songs. At a more recent meeting, students came prepared with a song to teach the class. The class consists of a mixture of students from fifth to eighth grade. So far everyone has enjoyed and found success with the instrument.
 
“The ukulele serves the music students in the class well,” said Mr. Jabot. “It reinforces specific music reading concepts, but is open to any students who wish to learn. The group is really enjoying getting to work with such a unique instrument.”