The Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra has just launched Uke Box, a new interactive digital resource for ukulele beginners and adept strummers alike.
Uke Box features video performances of seven original songs, written and arranged by Tasmanian songwriter Eleanor Tucker. Each arrangement showcases orchestral instruments as well as encouraging ukulele players of all levels to have a go and play-along with diverse TSO ensembles. Uke Box is the fourth online resource for TSO Join In initiative.
“Each song has been written with the ukulele in mind,” said Tucker. “I have tried to keep these parts as simple and accessible as possible (mainly 1 & 2 finger chords/ some pentatonic melodies) while simultaneously providing enough variety to retain interest, and extend playing technique.”
Uke Box is suitable for all ages and all levels – from beginners to beyond. It can be enjoyed at home by lifelong learners, community groups. For teachers wishing to use Uke Box in the classroom, there is a full set of and notes for teachers (suitable for non-music teachers).
Chord and tab charts are displayed on screen, and each song is followed by an up-close demonstration of ukulele technique. Duplicate videos displaying song lyrics are available as well as support materials for free download, including lead sheets.
Uke Box is available now, completely free of charge, on the TSO website.
