Although there is no conclusive evidence that the ukulele was born in Hawai’i, in certainly has roots on this island. Because of this, many of us associate our favourite four stringed instrument with palm trees and the ocean breeze, which happen to be things found not just in Hawai’i, but also in today’s feature city: Los Angeles. It’s sure not hard to picture yourself tanned from a day practicing your newest tune in the ‘Bu (that’s Malibu, as referred to by the locals), popping into a group session with the local ukulele group “The Pluckin’ Strummers”, then heading for some tacos to watch the sunset. Easy to imagine, and easy to accomplish on a day off if you’re in the area! It is afterall, the home of Thee Ukulele Teacher. Actually, he’s call The Ukulele Teacher, but he is one of the best on that beautiful thing we call YouTube!  

Now, visiting Los Angeles can be a challenge. It is huge after-all. This is no walking city, but there’s no better door to LA culture than through the ukulele. You’ll never find a more friendly and open group of people in this sunny, gritty city. Where to start? Right here, we got you all covered.  

The Pluckin’ Strummers are the local uke group, they meet twice a month. Their motto is “No politics, no attitudes, no egos”; we can’t imagine meeting up with a more welcoming group of people in LA. All about having fun, sharing the love of music, and growing everyone’s skills, they welcome players of all skill levels and backgrounds. We are sure you will leave with new pals and a new song under your belt.  

If you’re on the West side of the city and are looking to join or meet up with a more serious group, the Westside Ukulele Ensemble are your folks. You can check here for more info on joining or enjoying one of their performances!

If they aren’t performing, there are so many musical gigs happening all over the city, you’re sure to find something! You can check AXC’s Los Angeles page for any events happening or your favourite ticketing service. Word on the street is that Hawaii's ukulele virtuoso Jake Shimabukuro will be playing in LA this year, and getting to LA is usually much cheaper than getting to Hawaii... just saying.  

Probably (definitely) the biggest ukulele event in LA each year is the International Ukulele Festival held in Torrance, Los Angeles by the amazing folks at Kala Koa Entertainment. This massive event is not just ideal for hearing many of the best ukulele players from around the world perform in one place, but they also offer tons of workshops and classes for all skill levels, "Family Jams" (if you don’t think that sounds damn adorable then we just don’t know what to tell you), Group strum-alongs, Hawaiian style shave ice (it’s hot in LA) and bonus, if you’re a kid 12 or under you get in FREE! Here’s the video highlights from last year.  

So if you’re looking at flights to LA now, here’s a link to the chords for the epic Arlo Guthrie song “Comin’ In To Los Angeles” to get you ready. Be that person on the beach playing their ukulele. You know you want to.  

Bonus fun fact: the stunning JACCC (Japanese American Cultural & Community Center) in Downtown LA once held a ukulele expo and they almost beat the world record for the largest strum along!