ABOUT

About

The Spirit of Aloha

The literal meaning of aloha is “the presence of breath” or “the breath of life.” It comes from “Alo,” meaning presence, front and face, and “ha,” meaning breath. Aloha is a way of living and treating each other with love and respect. Its deep meaning starts by teaching ourselves to love our own beings first and afterwards to spread the love to others.

Uke4Fun is a Kariong -based (Gosford Central Coast NSW) ukulele learning group, formed in December 2015 as a community learning program for people who have always wanted to learn to play a musical instrument in a relaxed non-judgemental and social environment.

We supply easy to use -learning resources for beginners and encourage you not to rush out and buy a Ukulele when you first start. We will supply you will a learners Ukulele to get you started and assist you when you are ready to purchase your own Ukulele. Our Learner groups run for six weeks after which time you will be good enough to sit in with the players groups where you will continue to learn from your fellow group members and enjoy the social aspects of playing in a group. Private lesson are always available for you to enhance or upgrade your skills and knowledge in your own time and at your own pace if necessary.

In 2016 Uke4Fun a small group of enthusiastic members who started out as a learning group, embarked on their inaugural live performance, performing at the Parkland Café to the welcomed surprise of lunch time dinners. This was followed by a performance at the Kariong Neighbourhood Community Centre Christmas luncheon for the centre’s members and guests.

Uke4Fun, teaches, learns, rehearses and practice’s at the Phillip House (Rotary Hall) at 21 Old Mount Penang Road in Kariong on Saturday mornings from 9:30am until 11:30am. Private lesson are also available at a home studio in Kariong, or we can come to you if you are located in the Kariong/Gosford/Somersby area (subject to availability). If you have never touched a Ukulele and would like to give it a go, why not contact us today. We play a huge range of songs to suit all tastes.

Please remember our emphasis is on playing, having a sing song and having fun with a little gentle encouragement but with no pressure. Everybody’s welcome! We always encourage anyone with or without a ukulele to come along and join us. If you have a ukulele sitting in a cupboard or up in the loft somewhere and you have always fancied being able to play it, then give us a try. You will have a great time and learn a new skill that will impress and entertain your friends and family for years to come. All levels of players more than welcome.

Uke4Fun is a community of ukulele enthusiasts who are dedicated to the enjoyment of ukulele playing, singing and sharing our love for all things ukulele. Remember, when you play Ukulele, it should be for fun and enjoyment.

Meet Garry!

Greetings ukulele enthusiasts! I am a self-taught musician with a passion for creating and sharing melodies that resonate with the soul. My musical journey began with the strings of a guitar, and over the years, I've crafted my artistry through various experiences.

During the vibrant 1980s, I immersed myself in the Sydney Pub circuit, strumming away in cover bands that frequented iconic venues in Wollongong, the Central Coast, and Newcastle. A decade of lively performances laid the foundation for my musical career, providing me with a rich tapestry of experiences and a deep connection to the stage.

The 90s marked a pivotal moment in my trajectory when I clinched second place in the Sydney "Battle of the Bands" competition. This achievement earned me valuable recording time in the esteemed 2Day FM recording studios, empowering me to delve into the world of songwriting and recording my own compositions. This creative shift led me to explore new avenues in the music scene.

In the subsequent years, I found myself part of a dynamic 3-piece band, playing in intimate venues, weddings, parties—essentially, any place that welcomed the power of music. A decade-long hiatus from the industry provided me with time for reflection, but my love for music endured.

In 2013, I discovered a new muse—the ukulele. Since then, this charming instrument has become an inseparable part of my musical identity. In 2016, I took my passion a step further by developing a teaching and learning program tailored for adult senior beginners. I've had the pleasure of guiding numerous community members on their ukulele journey, witnessing the joy that music brings to learners of all ages.

Expanding my outreach, I designed a kid-friendly Ukulele learning experience for the local OSHC provider, the Kariong Neighbour Centre. Today, I find fulfillment in not only playing for residents in Aged Care and Retirement villages but also in passing on the gift of music through teaching.

Join me on this harmonious adventure as I continue to explore the boundless possibilities of music, celebrating the timeless connection it fosters among us all.