Ukule-A-Long

Saturday was the last of our Strummers in the Summer program, Ukulele at the Music Center.  The plaza was filled with ukulele artists, waiting to register for the morning's events!  The sun was shining through those sparkling windows at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion,  causing those gorgeous chandeliers to look like diamonds!

We registered for classes.  The Ukulele Ladies (Mary Jo, Brit and Natalie) and I took the Licks and Tricks class.  Very informative and entertaining.  

We learned bass licks to "Heard it Through the Grapevine" and intro licks to "Brown-Eyed Girl."  Imagine the uke sounding like that funky bass part in Marvin's "Grapevine" song....well, WE DID SOUND FUNKY, COOL and HIP (for the ukulele, anyway)!  Marilyn took the strumming class.  She learned some very syncopated, Hawaiian strums!

Natalie, Mary Jo, Brit

Marilyn and Ellen - Cousins!

After our classes, we reassembled on the second floor area of the Chandler to play all of the songs we'd learned.  It was a blast.  It was also great to see more than 200 ukulele players performing together.  The spirit of ohana and aloha were clearly present in the room.  Everyone was friendly and willing to help their neighbor.  I met so many wonderful new friends, in addition to  running into old friends too!  You can view more photos of the day, taken by the Active Arts Staff, by clicking on this LINK. 

Lisa and Kate

After the workshop I had lunch with the girls at nearby Taix French Restaurant.  We dined in the bar and had a grand time, along with the most delicious lunch! 

Classic, Iceberg Wedge with Bleu Cheese Dressing

Croque Monsieur

Quiche Lorraine

I neglected to snap a photo of Brit's Salade Nicoise.  Everything at Taix is oh so French!  I love the dishes at Taix.  I want my name on the rim of my dishes!   I also learned all about the Moscow Mule!  Thanks Ladies for a wonderful morning!