No prior experience is necessary! 

In this course, students will learn the basics of playing the ukulele. By the end of this camp, students should be able to play basic chords, know several strumming patterns, and sing and play a few songs! 

Day One: Introduction to the Ukulele
- Overview of the parts of the ukulele and how to tune it
- Basic chords (C, G, F) and strumming patterns
- Learn a simple song using the chords and strumming patterns taught

Day Two: Building on the Basics
- Review
- Introduction to more chords (Am, Em, D)
- More complex strumming patterns
- Learning to switch between chords smoothly
- Learning a new song with new chords and strumming patterns

Day Three: Melodies and Fingerpicking
- Introduction to playing melodies on the ukulele
- Basic fingerpicking patterns
- Learning a simple melody and practicing fingerpicking patterns
- Introduction to tablature notation

Day Four: Music Theory for Ukulele Players
- Basic music theory concepts such as scales, intervals, and chord progressions
- Applying music theory to the ukulele
- Playing chords using different chord progressions
- Learning a new song

Day 5: Songwriting and Performance
- Introduction to songwriting
- Learning how to write a simple song
- Tips for performing on the ukulele
- Practice performing songs as a group or individually

Day 6: Collaborative Jam Session
- Group jam session where campers can play together and share their favorite songs
- Optional opportunity for campers to perform solo 

Day 7: Final Performance
- Final rehearsal for the performance
- Performance for family and friends showcasing what the campers have learned


Each class will consist of group discussions and demonstrations, including slide shows visually describing course content in an easy-to-follow style.  In my nine years of teaching, I have ensured that students smile and have fun during my classes. Students will be able to interact with the teacher and the other students fully. Students will be asked to demonstrate their newly learned skill in each class so that I am able to assess their progress informally.