Little Cities Are Going Mad Over The Uke

Ukuleles are an unbelievable bargain for such a serious instrument. Not only can you get a decent one dirt cheap, you can learn the basic chords in minutes, fit it under your arm, bring it anywhere with you and adapt its sound to any style. With so much going for it, it’s not exactly a surprise that its currently having a big moment. Almost everyone is picking one up – from kids to adults and seniors – and the little instrument can be seen in nearly every music store in America.

Even little cities are going mad over the uke, and Spokane is a reflection of that popularity.  

The eastern Washington city is no stranger to arts: It’s home to the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture, plenty of live entertainment and their vibrant metropolitan center is Spokane’s meeting place for creative of all types – including ukulele musicians.  

The Spokane Ukestra ukulele club meets twice a month on Fridays (usually the 2nd and 4th) at 7:30pm to jam, socialize and learn. The exact schedule and location can vary, so members are encouraged to watch the group’s private Facebook page for specific dates and venues. Ukestra uses “The Daily Ukulele”, “The Daily Ukulele Leap Year Edition” and the “HUG (Halifax Ukulele Group)” songbook. Don’t have them? Don’t worry, if the club doesn’t have extras, you can buy The Daily Ukulele online or download the HUG here.

While any skill level and age is welcome, natural performers are also encouraged to join as Ukestra periodically performs for audiences outside of their meetings. This group is also open to residents of Coeur d’Alene and its surrounding area.

If sitting back and watching someone else perform is what your after, Spokane is home to an incredible local band. Sulphur Banks, a trio based out of the eastern Washington city, features haunting harmonies and a perfect collaboration of dialed back acoustics and multi-faceted vocal melodies. They’re made up of three members: Sarah Jean, who plays the fiddle; Kaylee Goins, who plays the guitar; and Mackie Hockett, who plays the uke.  

The bands name, quite fittingly, is also the name of an area in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.