Join the Celebration: World Ukulele Day in Bonita Springs Attracts Music Lovers of All Ages!

On the first Sunday of February, more than a hundred people came together in Bonita Springs to celebrate the inaugural “World Ukulele Day.” This lively event took place at Riverside Park, where attendees enjoyed free concerts and ukulele lessons for all ages and skill levels.

Emily Stehle, an experienced ukulele teacher, offered lessons during the festivities. She highlighted how fun and versatile the ukulele can be, even for beginners. “The G7 chord may look tricky, but it’s actually one of the best chords to learn. With just three chords, you can play hundreds of songs!” she explained. She reassured newcomers that with just a few more chords, they could play nearly any song they wanted.

After the lessons, everyone was invited to join a jam session at the park’s Bandshell. Bobbie Schuester, who leads a group called HUGS Naples (Happy Ukulele Group of Seniors), enjoyed the jamming experience. She commented on how the ukulele offers joy and connection, especially for seniors. “For many of us, arthritis can make playing a little challenging, but there are easier chord options available. It’s a very friendly instrument that helps with mental sharpness and finger dexterity. I like to call it ukulele aerobics because we are exercising our brains and fingers!”

All donations from the event supported The Right Chord for Veterans, a nonprofit that helps veteran causes. It was a day filled with music, laughter, and community spirit, showing just how enjoyable and inclusive the ukulele can be!