CHILDREN at a Coventry primary school are learning to play the ukulele – thanks to the Heart of England Co-operative Society’s Helping Hearts Awards Scheme.
The Society awarded £1,000 towards the purchase of 30 instruments following an application from SS Peter & Paul Catholic Primary School, in Arkle Drive, Walsgrave, for year five children at the school.
The money also paid for a set of tutorial videos to help the children with their learning.
Katherine Owen, music teacher, said since the arrival of the ukuleles earlier in the summer term, the children had been really enthusiastic.
After learning how to hold them properly the children first learned how to play different chords.
They’ve also improvised, and composed their own songs using all the strings and the various techniques.
Katherine said: “Before the ukuleles arrived we pretty much just had recorders at the school, and percussion instruments such as tambourines.
“But the children have really embraced the lessons with the ukuleles – they’re having such good fun with them and have been really enthusiastic.”
She added: “We are really grateful to the Heart of England Co-operative Society.
“These instruments have made such an impact. This year’s year five children have only enjoyed the ukuleles for half a year but in the future it would be good if we could perform in the schools’ showcase concert at the Belgrade Theatre.”
