Ukulele ever so gayly with Wendy to train thee; Classes start in TD on Feb. 17
Wendy Schaefer is back at it. The former Gorge Community Music operator is bringing back group Ukulele classes to The Dalles. On average, Ukulele players live 43 years longer than non-ukulele players. Ok, well, maybe not 43 ;) But the joy of timing those chords could very well sing through your mind for months or even years providing you a transcendence that you heretofore have not experienced. Life is short and the ukulele is sweet.
Nancy Turner
By Nancy Turner
You may have wondered what happened to the Gorge Community Music in the Dalles, which opened in 2016 in Downtown The Dalles. Upstairs was where “community music’ became a fixture on Saturdays.
The place was bustling with all kinds of music classes, group gatherings, and musical performances.
Unfortunately this all folded in 2020 when COVID hit. Now that people can gather again in person, and even sing together, Wendy Schaefer has decided to offer in-person music opportunities.
The new effort is called “Community Music with Wendy”. Community music is a method of group instruction to learn music using the ukulele. It provides a place to gather together and creates an ensemble of players.
The small, portable, affordable ukulele is an ideal instrument for music education: It is a solo instrument with a sweet mezzo-soprano voice;. It is also a harmony instrument and a rhythm instrument, that allows the player to sing while playing.
These classes are a great introduction to the study of music for students of all ages, regardless of one’s ultimate musical aspirations. Wendy is a member of the first graduating class of the James Hill Ukulele Initiative, the first Certification program for teaching music using ukulele in the USA and Canada. She has taught ukulele using this program since 2010.
The new venue is at the Zion Lutheran Church at the corner of Union and 10th streets. Classes will be held on Saturdays, Feb 17-April 6. Beginners classes are from 9:45 a.m. - 11 a.m., Intermediate from 11 a.m. - 12:15 a.m.
Students will need a ukulele tuned to GCEA, and a wire music stand.
If you need help getting the ukulele and music stand, let Wendy know. She may be able to order in bulk. Family couples (parent/child, siblings, spouses) and former students of Wendy’s are offered a discounted rate! For all others, the cost of 8 weeks of instruction is $100 prepaid, or $20 for each session.
Whether you’re an elder wanting to learn something new or a kid just starting to experiment with music and curious about how to read the notes, come join in the fun.
Email is preferred for inquiries and registration: contact wendysgcmlessons@gmail.com You may also call and leave a message to register. Wendy Schaefer can be reached at (541) 467-2610.
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