It's Been a While!

Starting this 'fun' project a month ago I planned to teach myself the ukulele by playing it every day. This worked for two weeks, then I didn't pick it up for another two and a half. I had thought the summer holidays would be the ideal time to learn, however life and going on holiday got in the way. Turns out I didn't take the uke to Cornwall. The more time that passed the bigger a deal it felt to pick up my poor abandoned instrument, like I'd need to invest hours of time to 'catch up'. This evening, feeling determined, I got reacquainted and bumbled my way through the songs I learnt (and posted) a few weeks ago. I feel like I've missed out on a chunk of learning, as I had hoped to become good enough to play and sing with my class. Still, there are two weeks of the holiday left so I'll do my best! For me things stop being fun when they become chore-like. It took me this evening to remember I actually enjoy it. I learnt 'Mama Said' with Laurence. I've uploaded two recordings. One of Laurence singing and me playing, then one of me trying to sing and play together (very rough around the edges!)

Mama Said 13.08.15

Mama Said 2nd Version 13.08.15

Playing Music

My parents-in-law came over a few days ago. We ate some experimental chocolate beer cake then Laurence and his dad settled down to play though some Cuban songs for Dom's jazz band 'Quizás'. They asked me to join in and I did! I struggled to keep up but enjoyed playing live music together so much!

On a sort of related note, in that it involves Dom.... I learnt 'Moon River' on ukulele. He worked out the chords for me. Here it is in its rusty glory.

Moon River 25.07.15

Riptide

I was happily looking forward to Cornwall, Kayleigh and Boardmasters when I discovered this cute beachy song. The ukulele/guitar rhythm is difficult for me if I try to sing along. I've adapted it slightly to better fit my beginner level. I still can't manage to keep in time and sing, yet I've recorded a rough version anyway. I will practise and polish and post a better one sometime!

Riptide 24.07.15

I Am Not a Robot!

What a lovely weekend of having friends to stay! Definitely the moment this ukulele lark could have dwindled and died since I haven't played or recorded anything since Thursday. I was actually happy and excited to get back to it today. I've been learning 'I Am Not a Robot' by Marina and the Diamonds. I love this song although it will take me a long time until I'm anywhere near good at it. To fit with the original I've tried to replicate the rhythm of the keyboard which holds the song together. This means a tricky strumming pattern and having to mute the strings. I struggle with both! I'm hoping if I keep practising I can post a retake in the near future that's less painstakingly slow. Bless you if you manage to hear the whole thing out!

I Am Not a Robot 20.07.15

Sweet Tea & Chariots

Today was the first day of my holidays and I woke up late, with a very sore throat. I kept up with my newly formed ukulele practising habit although this is all I managed to record. Oh and I got some new tea to ease the pain!

Swing Low Sweet Chariot 16.07.15

Footsteps & Teardrops

We had another go at 'Teardrops' last night. I think we kept to the beat a bit more. Laurence is playing bass. And so as to not lose the nostalgic vibe here's 'Pop Goes the Weasel' from the song book!

Teardrops 14.07.15

Pop Goes the Weasel 14.07.15

Ukulele

My husband built this beautiful ukulele three years ago using salvaged wood he was given. I've discovered the joy of it three years late, better late than never. It has a little star inlaid into the fretboard and sweet palm trees carved into the body. I was exhausted after work yesterday, flicking through the song book until I found 'House of the Rising Sun'. Cerys says it's the first song she learnt on guitar so I guess I'm in good company. Laurence then taught me 'Molly Malone', a catchy song that was new to me yet feels familiar.

House of the Rising Sun 13.07.15

Molly Malone 13.07.15