Ukulele[/caption]Editor - If you want friends, or to develop your musical talents or help pave the way to world peace, taking up the ukulele may do that all for you and then some.
Ukes are becoming the rage on college campuses, and in community centers, music stores and music hangouts of various stripes. They are no longer for the Tiny Tim, George Formby, Arthur Godfrey or the Marilyn Monroe of "Some Like It Hot." They are no longer just an amusing toy for a child at Christmas or the joke on the wall of some older person who speaks of how music was "only" the ukulele, while the family is amused about Grandpa's hobby. The ukulele is making a comeback in a big way, as people from small children to the elderly, from musically gifted to the amateur plunker, join the growing queue of folks who enjoy making music with a small instrument known now for its range of style and capabilities.
These days nearly every music store has a section devoted to the ukulele. Players have an opportunity to join others in play and performance all over metropolitan areas, like Portland, Oregon. The Portland Ukulele Association maintains a calendar of events and a roster of opportunities for learning the magic and fun of the ukulele. But it doesn't stop there. YouTube is filled with players and performances, with various degrees of talent, some who can awe and inspire with their musical abilities.
It's a world phenomenon. Ukuleles are being used to bring Arab and Jewish children together in a movement for peace. Whole orchestras are devoted to the uke, with the one in Great Britain leading the charge and the Wellington Ukulele Orchestra not far behind.
Have a listen to the fun of the ukulele, as folks celebrate the "happy instrument" that is making music enjoyment personal for many people everywhere.