Here we go! The Third Annual CascoBay Ukefest is happening soon, July 29 from 9:30 to 4:00 to be exact, at St. Luke's Cathedral Portland, ME. Here's what The Day will look like.

SCHEDULE FOR THE DAY

WORKSHOPS led by Stuart Fuchs - one or both workshops for a total of $10

Stuart is a performing and teaching artist who has presented his innovative and holistic music workshops at the top ukulele festivals across the US and Canada. In his concerts, Stuart balances virtuosity and heart on his classical guitar, ukulele, Native American flute, and didjeridoo. Stuart is committed to a compassionate and holistic vision of music education and has taught and led clinics for all ages - from pre-K through college. 

9:30 Ukulele 101: Beginner Ukulele Workshop

This workshop is for ukulele enthusiasts of ALL LEVELS who would like to review some of the foundations of ukulele playing and music study in general. While this session is geared for beginners, there will be plenty of great takeaways for more experienced players as well. By the end of this session players will understand how to play with greater coordination, speed, tone, and a relaxed control. Stuart will also lead the group through a sequence of his "Ukulele Zen" exercises that will strengthen and improve flexibility in your hands and fingers.

10:45 Rockabilly and Classic Rock ’n’ Roll for the Ukulele

This workshop is open to BEGINNERS AND UP - some basic experience playing ukulele is recommended. Rock and roll ukulele is not so much about technique as it is about an attitude. This workshop is about shedding inhibitions and letting your inner rock and roller out. In this workshop, Stuart adapts Rockabilly and Rock ’n’ Roll guitar styles adapted for ukulele. You’ll play classic songs and learn the style of Rockabilly rhythm and lead playing in the styles of Carl Perkins, Chuck Berry, Little Richard, Eddie Cochrane, The Beatles, Elvis, and more. Stuart orchestrates the group into a fun multi-part band. This workshop will teach you some killer rock ’n’ roll tricks for ukulele including songs by Chuck Berry, Little Richard, Carl Perkins, Eddie Cochrane, Elvis, The Beatles, and more.

Noon Concert by Stuart Fuchs - A $10 donation is suggested; and the net proceeds of the UkeFest from the concert and the sale of tee shirts, decals, and lunches will be donated to the St. Luke’s Food Pantry.

1:00 - 1:30 Bag Lunches available A limited number of bag lunches will be available for $6 - delicious cheese, pepperoni, a thick bread roll, hummus and carrots, a banana, a bottle of water, and a homemade cookie.

UKULELE GROUPS WITH AUDIENCE STRUM-ALONGS - all free

1:30 The Merry Plinksters -The Merry Plinksters Ukulele Group is the ongoing year-round extension of a 4-week Ukulele 101 class that is offered twice a year at RSD9 Adult Education in Farmington. Facilitator Michael Burd is also the Technology Instructor there. The group, founded in 2010, has an extensive and unique catalog of songs spanning many decades and genres. 

2:00 The PI Ukes - The PI Ukes (Peaks Island Ukes) are a grass-roots group that gets together on Monday nights at 6:30 to play for an hour and enjoy each other's company. They play diverse repertoire, members number over 30, and they are warm and welcoming and focused on having a good time. 

2:30 The FLUKES - The FLUKES (Falmouth Library Ukulele Society) boast a membership of over 35 ukulele musicians. During weekly Wednesday night rehearsals, they’ve built a repertoire from many different musical genres, practicing, playing and most of all having a lot of fun.

3:00 The Ukulele Strummers of Southern Maine - The Ukulele Strummers of Southern Maine (USSM) welcome all to their twice-monthly meetings on the first and third Sundays at Parsons Memorial Library in Alfred, Maine, from 1:00-3:00 p.m. They play round robin style: bring a song or two to share or perform--everyone gets a turn--or just play along for fun. All level players are welcome. 

3:30 The UU’s - The UU’s are a small group of ukulele-playing friends who get together regularly in Lee Urban’s living room in Portland to play ukulele, sing, and have great fun.

All are welcome - ukulele players, wannabes, and admirers of all things uke!