Two hundred and fifty pupils from Central primary schools hit all the right notes at jam sessions in Alexandra yesterday (Tuesday June 24).

A Kiwilele jam is when students learn to play the same songs on the ukulele and then join forces, uniting with music and having fun.

The students from Alexandra Primary School, Clyde School, The Terrace School and St Gerard’s School have been learning ten songs since the start of the term and many have practiced alongside their teachers, classmates and with the support of their families.

Highlights of the morning jam here (two minute video). Video: The Central App

Central Otago district mayor Tamah Alley picked up a uke and hit some chords, joining in with tamariki from Clyde. Photo: Central App

Music teacher Liz Conway wrote the song ‘Tomayto Tomahto’ which was part of the jam, and she donned a tomato costume. She was supported by students in carrot and banana outfits.

This is the second year Liz has organised the jam, but last year only two schools took part (APS and St Gerard’s).

“It was a bit of work to bring together last year, and we knew we could double it, and make it twice as fun,” Liz said.

“Between all the four schools we’ve got 150 ukes here for kids to play, that is pretty cool.”

A feast for the eyes and ears, as colourful ukuleles were held up prior to playing. Photo: The Central App 

Clyde School teacher Alistair Banks said some of the pupils were nervous but the beauty of the ukulele was that you could sing, slap or ghost strum to take part even if you weren’t fully confident on the chords. 

This year two sessions were held at Alexandra Community Hall, Clyde School and TTS at 11am -12 noon; and APS and St Gerard’s at 1.15 - 2.15pm. 

The group benefited from Central Lakes Trust (CLT) Central Lakes Art Support Scheme (CLASS) funding of $2,300 to help with running costs including venue hire, a sound system and the live band.

Along with Liz, the band consisted of school parents Hamish Dunn on drums, Ollie Yeoman on ukulele, Kim Froggatt on rhythm guitar, Jono Conway on bass guitar, and Paula Brown on keyboard, flute and recorder.

Band members (from left) Ollie, Liz, Kim, Hamish, Jono and Paula. Photo: The Central App 

This year the group performed a song in Samoan, ‘Ta Lau Ukulele’, along with four waiata in Te Reo Māori (Nga Iwi E, Tihore Mai, Purea Nei and Aotearoa, no te katoa).

The winners of a ukulele art competition were also announced, and Caylee Blisset from TTS won the morning prize, a ukulele donated by Alexandra’s Central Appliance Plus.

Students and teachers left buzzing, excited and happy after the musical experience. 

For more information see the NZ Ukes Trust website.

Have a story to share? Contact [email protected]