Over 2,150 ukulele players have signed up to setting a new world record, in July, for the largest ukulele ensemble but still many more are needed to boost the chances of success.
Hampshire Music Hub (a partnership led by Hampshire County Council’s Music Service) is organising the record breaking attempt, taking place at Southampton Football Club on Friday 18 July 2014 (1.30pm to 3pm).
Jill Larner, Head of Hampshire Music Service, said: “The response to our initial appeal has been excellent and I am grateful to all those who have signed up so far but would love to see even more coming forward. I have just learned that an American ukulele world record attempt is taking place later this month, so we are going to need all the help we can get if we are in to be in with a chance of bringing the world record to Hampshire in July.”
Hampshire Music Hub wants to beat the current record of 2134 participants in a ukulele ensemble, set during the Leiland Grow Incorporated Ukulele Picnic at Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse in Kanagawa, Japan in 2012.
Leading the record attempt will be Cbeebies’ actor and entertainer, Justin Fletcher MBE.
Councillor Peter Edgar, Executive Member for Education at Hampshire County Council, said: “This will be a truly special and fantastic event that will enable hundreds to play the ukulele and sing together in an atmospheric venue. Support from more ukulele players is essential if we are to achieve the world record.”
“Our Music Service has been working with classes and groups all over Hampshire teaching them how to play the ukulele and this world record attempt is a marvellous motivation for learning and a great way to end the school year on a high note.”
Entry is £6 (£3 for concessions) with charges contributing to cover the cost of the venue hire. Tickets can be ordered from Hampshire Music Service on 023 8065 2037 or email music.service@hants.gov.uk
The Hampshire Music Hub is one of a national network of innovative music education hubs established by the Arts Council in 2012, as part of the Government’s re-organisation of music education across the country. Hampshire’s Hub not only provides children with access to high quality musical education but also to a range of opportunities to participate in large scale, high profile performing arts events. The hub also provides development opportunities and training for school staff in a bid to widen participation in the arts.
The Music Hub has the backing of famed composer and leading impresario Andrew Lloyd Webber who agreed to be its champion, a role similar to that of a Patron in a charitable organisation.