Free ukulele lessons in Sonoma

The Sonoma Valley Regional Library will host two free ukulele classes in May.

“Ukulele: Beyond the Basics” will be offered at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, May 9. If you know the basics of ukulele, this class will help you move beyond.

“This class is designed to kick things up a notch,” says music educator Scott Gifford. “It’s for those who are comfortable with the C, C7, F & G7 chords and are ready to learn more.”

Slightly more complicated songs will also be taught. Gifford said, “If you can play a three-chord song without feeling stressed, come try Beyond the Basics and see how it feels.”

Ukuleles will be provided and registration is required.

“Ukulele for Tweens and Teens” will be offered on Wednesday, May 2 at 4 p.m. Students can learn the basics of ukulele and have a song repertoire by the end of the class. The class is most appropriate for kids in grades 5 to 12.

Music educator Gifford will teach the class. “The ukulele is the gateway instrument for other string instruments and is fun right from the start,” said Gifford.

The class is for beginners and also for those who are familiar with playing the ukulele and want to refresh their memory. “We’ll cover four chords: C7, C, F and G7. We’ll learn songs like ‘The Beat Goes On,’ ‘Frere Jacques,’ and ‘My Darlin’ Clementine,’” said Gifford.

Ukuleles will be provided and registration is required. Stop by the library or call, 996-5217 to register or register on-line atsonomalibrary.org under “Events.” Participants are welcome to bring their own ukulele.