Showing posts with label GNUF. Show all posts
Showing posts with label GNUF. Show all posts
6 Jun 2017
7 May 2017
7 May 2017T21:02
Grand Northern Ukulele Festival 2018!
I was very disappointed this weekend that car troubles stopped me visiting GNUF 2017 in Huddersfield..
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4 Jun 2016
4 Jun 2016T09:02
First of all - that fine fellow in the photograph is Paul Redfern - ukulele player and performer in one of my favourite outifts that I have featured on this site many times - The pUKEs!
Second of all, the photograph was part of a series of wonderful shots taken by another ukulele player, the supremely talented Liam Capper-Starr - performer in his own right and organiser of the much lauded Uke-East Festival. Incidentally - Liam has a new full album out now which you can find on that first link!
The third reason is a sadder one - it was taken at GNUF and I wasn't able to go. Still - nice when things from friends come together like this!
Thanks both!
http://gotaukulele.spreadshirt.co.uk
http://gotaukulele.spreadshirt.com
© Barry Maz
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Got A Ukulele Gets Around
I was delighted to see this picture appear on Facebook the other day for a whole heap of reasons, and not just because there is a Got A Ukulele T Shirt in the picture!
| Credit - Liam Capper-Starr |
First of all - that fine fellow in the photograph is Paul Redfern - ukulele player and performer in one of my favourite outifts that I have featured on this site many times - The pUKEs!
Second of all, the photograph was part of a series of wonderful shots taken by another ukulele player, the supremely talented Liam Capper-Starr - performer in his own right and organiser of the much lauded Uke-East Festival. Incidentally - Liam has a new full album out now which you can find on that first link!
The third reason is a sadder one - it was taken at GNUF and I wasn't able to go. Still - nice when things from friends come together like this!
Thanks both!
http://gotaukulele.spreadshirt.co.uk
http://gotaukulele.spreadshirt.com
© Barry Maz
8 May 2016
8 May 2016T09:17
I've said many times before that one of the things that makes GNUF very special is their ability to get artists to the UK that haven't previously been over here. And that is to say, they create a bill that stands out from the multitude of other ukulele festivals where you tend to see the same names over and over. The breadth of the bill is astounding year after year. GNUF brought Aaron and Nicole Keim over for their first UK Festival last year (and they are back this year). GNUF is bringing Danielle Ate The Sandwich over for her first UK dates, and of course the GNUF organiser was responsible for the first UK tour of Jake Shimabukuro and the first ukulele festival appearance for the Ukulele Orchestra Of Great Britain. This year sees the appearance of another US outfit who are revered in ukulele circles - the Flea Bitten Dawgs.
Formed in 2010 by three musicians with MANY years experience in performing (and having shared stages with some seriously impressive names), Flea Bitten Dawgs consist of David Henry Spangler and Thom Pallozola on ukulele and vocals, with percussion provided by Lee Kram. These are real players players and have opened for / shared the stage with some of the ukulele worlds biggest names, such as Gerald Ross, Stuart Fuchs and Cali Rose. Their style? 'Ukulele Jazz Americana'. Sounds great to me!
Their slot at GNUF this year marks the end of a mini tour of the UK and Europe also being organised by GNUF. It sees them perform in Brussells, Bradford, Reading, Belper (with Phil Doleman and Ian Emmerson) and Liverpool.
Take a tip from me - this is an act to watch. Take a look at their 'hello' to the UK!
And have a tune!
Nice huh?
The Grand Northern Ukulele Festival takes place on 27-29 May at Huddersfield, UK.
http://northernuke.com
http://fleabittendawgs.com
© Barry Maz
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GNUF Preview - Flea Bitten Dawgs
Another look forward to this years Grand Northern Ukulele Festival and a real treat for ukulele fans. The Flea Bitten Dawgs in their first UK mini tour and festival slot.
I've said many times before that one of the things that makes GNUF very special is their ability to get artists to the UK that haven't previously been over here. And that is to say, they create a bill that stands out from the multitude of other ukulele festivals where you tend to see the same names over and over. The breadth of the bill is astounding year after year. GNUF brought Aaron and Nicole Keim over for their first UK Festival last year (and they are back this year). GNUF is bringing Danielle Ate The Sandwich over for her first UK dates, and of course the GNUF organiser was responsible for the first UK tour of Jake Shimabukuro and the first ukulele festival appearance for the Ukulele Orchestra Of Great Britain. This year sees the appearance of another US outfit who are revered in ukulele circles - the Flea Bitten Dawgs.
Formed in 2010 by three musicians with MANY years experience in performing (and having shared stages with some seriously impressive names), Flea Bitten Dawgs consist of David Henry Spangler and Thom Pallozola on ukulele and vocals, with percussion provided by Lee Kram. These are real players players and have opened for / shared the stage with some of the ukulele worlds biggest names, such as Gerald Ross, Stuart Fuchs and Cali Rose. Their style? 'Ukulele Jazz Americana'. Sounds great to me!
Their slot at GNUF this year marks the end of a mini tour of the UK and Europe also being organised by GNUF. It sees them perform in Brussells, Bradford, Reading, Belper (with Phil Doleman and Ian Emmerson) and Liverpool.
Take a tip from me - this is an act to watch. Take a look at their 'hello' to the UK!
And have a tune!
Nice huh?
The Grand Northern Ukulele Festival takes place on 27-29 May at Huddersfield, UK.
http://northernuke.com
http://fleabittendawgs.com
© Barry Maz
10 Apr 2016
10 Apr 2016T18:42
That's musical understanding right there. The voices, the laid back style. This is right up my street!
And for UK people who like the sound of this - bear in mind that both of these acts are headlining at this years Grand Northern Ukulele Festival. Would be amazing to hear them do this!
Get your tickets for the fest soon as they are going fast! I will also be sharing some more videos of some of the featured artists at this years festival over the next few weeks.
http://northernuke.com
© Barry Maz
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Danielle Ate The Sandwich with The Quiet American - My Girl
One of those ukulele videos that really takes my breath away at the effortless beauty of it. We've got three for the price of two here - Danielle Ate The Sandwich performing with Nicole and Aaron Keim of The Quiet American.
That's musical understanding right there. The voices, the laid back style. This is right up my street!
And for UK people who like the sound of this - bear in mind that both of these acts are headlining at this years Grand Northern Ukulele Festival. Would be amazing to hear them do this!
Get your tickets for the fest soon as they are going fast! I will also be sharing some more videos of some of the featured artists at this years festival over the next few weeks.
http://northernuke.com
© Barry Maz
T18:33
The act bill themselves as a mix of Vic Reeves, The Bonzo Dog Doo Dah Band and The Divine Comedy and I can see exactly what they mean. Catch them at GNUF this year from 27-29 May in Huddersfield.
http://northernuke.com
http://www.biscuithead.co.uk
© Barry Maz
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Biscuithead and the Biscuit Badgers - Seaweed Under The Sofa
OK, this is an interesting one to keep an eye on at this years Grand Northern Ukulele Festival. Biscuithead and the Biscuit Badgers!
The GNUF event always promises variety - and nothing seems to fit that bill this year as much as this outfit. Not a ukulele band (but they feature one) - but I much prefer that than acts that are just 'uke uke uke'... Seriously - if the instrument is ever going to be taken more seriously we need more that rooms full of people all playing the same thing. Anyway, I rather love this.The act bill themselves as a mix of Vic Reeves, The Bonzo Dog Doo Dah Band and The Divine Comedy and I can see exactly what they mean. Catch them at GNUF this year from 27-29 May in Huddersfield.
http://northernuke.com
http://www.biscuithead.co.uk
© Barry Maz
31 Jan 2016
31 Jan 2016T15:58
Born and raised in Nebraska, Danielle has more recently called Fort Collins, Colorado her home and has been touring the US since 2009 with a string of albums to her name. Later this year she is visiting and performing in the UK at the Grand Northern Ukulele Festival which will be a real treat. I caught up with her recently.
Hi Danielle! Let’s start off with finding out a little more about how you started in music – what were your first experiences?
'I was in choir in school and church and took piano lessons as a kiddo. I studied violin from 4th grade until I graduated high school. I had always loved writing stories and poems! I have a notebook with songs I wrote from about 5th or 6th grade and some old cassette tapes with me singing some of my early songs. I taught myself to play guitar in high school, but kept my songs a secret until my early 20s! That also when I found the ukulele! I’m a late bloomer, so when I finally came out of my shell it was a bit of an explosion!'
So have you been mainly playing ukulele since or do you have other instruments at home?
'I play mostly ukulele, but this winter I got an electric guitar (with amp and effects) and a banjo. I think that different instruments can help unlock new songs or paths of creativity. Just like if you get a new haircut, you might walk a little bit differently down the street. Ukulele is a true love of mine, but I am willing to have flings with other instruments!'
That’s what I regularly tell my readers – it’s healthy to enjoy all sorts of instruments. Flings are allowed! Aside from the instruments themselves, what styles of music are your real loves?
'What I listen to on a daily basis and what inspires my music are a bit different! I love to find inspiration from folk, jazz and soul music. The lyrical styles found in all of them inspire my own, but I always love pop/jazz vocal melodies and as I develop my singing voice more, I love to let loose with some soul singing! In the car, I listen to pop radio and house/electronic music. The last album I got was Justin Bieber’s Purpose and I love it. It usually surprises people that I like mass consumed radio and cable TV.'
I’ve picked up a soul vibe on the vocals in many of your videos – is there a style you haven’t yet attempted as Danielle Ate The Sandwich but would like to? Do you think everything can work with the ukulele?
'There are songs I love, but can’t seem to make work well with just voice and ukulele. I don’t think that is a limit of the ukulele, so much as it is a limit of my own musical know-how. There are ukulele players who make it obvious to me the ukulele can do anything! James Hill is one of these players-he does Michael Jackson and Jimi Hendrix and his own amazing originals. I am proud to have been able to cover a lot of genres-soul, jazz, pop, rock, country. I would love to do some James Brown and have been working on a Doris Day cover for a long time now!'
Like many artists on the ukulele circuit, you generated a lot of early success with your YouTube videos – how important do you think that channel is for new performers to get noticed?
'YouTube was a very important part of how I got my start and success! I think it’s a great help, but I don’t think it’s essential to success. I know a lot of people ask me how they should get started on YouTube and how they can get big there, but I think it’s a very hard thing to cultivate and it certainly not for everyone. It worked well for me because I got on right when it got big and I’m a goofy performer who loves to be in front of the camera. I don’t think anything I am doing is necessarily right for another musician and vice versa. I should do exactly what they’re doing and expect the same results. I believe that just like finding your musical style and artistic vision, you need to carve your own business path!'
And how did the ‘Ate The Sandwich’ name come about?
'It was in 2006, when i was making a myspace page for my music. I had to pick a URL for the page, so I was making a list of things to call myself and it came to mind. I think food (as an essential building block of life, as well as a visual thing) is fun and lovely. I like the word Sandwich-it’s got nice heavy consonants and sandwiches come in many different shapes and sizes! I didn’t want to change my last name or use a fake stage name, so I just thought what do you do with Sandwiches, you eat them. I’m Danielle, what do I do to Sandwiches? I eat them.'
As a musician, what do you get the biggest buzz from? Songwriting, live performance or a mix of all those things?
'Definitely a mix! I am a songwriter. I am living every day of my life, observing and experiencing every moment as a songwriter. It’s the difference between the question, “What do you do for a job?” and “Who are you?”'
That’s a good point. So tell me how the performance element gives you a buzz?
'Performance is something that I discovered I love in the last 10 years. It makes me feel alive in a different way! When I’m on stage, I’m brazen and liberated. I say what I think and I feel good about myself. The connection between the audience and a performer is really important to me. It’s wild to be two different people, one very timid and observing very quietly and another on fire and up in front of everyone!'
Does that feeling of being on fire come naturally to you? What are your tips for dealing with stage fright and nerves?
'I wasn’t always good on stage! It took me a very long time to face my fears and perform for the first time. When I finally found the courage to get up there, I had to perform several times before I enjoyed it. I was critical of how I did and usually got off the stage feeling terrible about myself. I was always saying, “That was terrible Danielle, but you can do better, you’ve got to try again and do better next time.” There was some fire under my butt that kept me getting back up there. I was always self deprecating and a little odd on stage, so my schtick is natural in the way that it happened the very first time I got up to perform and I’m still doing that today. The experience I was personally having got better and better as I got more experience on stage. I think of stage performance a lot like learning to play a song. You have to practice. You have to do it over and over, know what you’re doing if you mess up, know what you’re doing if you’re doing well, you have to know how to do it when people are talking or when people are REALLY listening. Performance is a skill and an artform! I really like it!
Audiences in the UK and Europe will be thrilled to see you are on the bill for this years Grand Northern Ukulele Festival. Is this your first time over to the UK?
'I travelled to Scotland in 2013 with friends, but didn’t play any shows! This will be my first time in England and my first time performing in the UK! It feels like a very important step for me professional as well as a person! I’m looking forward to the adventure!'
Well I think you are at one of the great ukulele festivals and am sure you will go down well. Of course you have played many other great places already! What would you say is a performance highlight in your career so far?
'I’ve done a few fancy things that people always like to hear about. I got to play the NPR Radio show, ETown with Mumford and Sons. I’ve also opened for Suzanne Vega and I’ve opened on tour for Pomplamoose. I’ve had a few experiences that were very rewarding and personal to me. Sometimes playing a show can be just like another day at work and other days you’re overcome with gratitude and emotions, getting to play your songs and getting to be where you are, sharing it with people.'
Wow! some great names there! What about venues?Do you have any dream stages or events you would like to play?
'My biggest (silly) dream is to be on Saturday Night Live as the musical guest and host! I’d also love to play larger, historic theaters and venues-the same kind of places where Damien Rice and Glen Hansard play! It’s great to be in a venue that helps bring alive your voice and songs, but can still be an intimate setting for you and your fans!'
Naturally, my readers are always keen to know what instruments artists use – tell us a little about your performance instruments.
'My first choice is always the ukulele! I play tenor the most often, but recently got into the baritone. My latest album, ‘The Drawing Back of Curtains’ was almost all baritone ukulele! And I find it’s been a great tool for writing! I play Mya-Moe brand ukuleles. I also play guitar occasionally and just got a banjo! I love to write on any instrument I can get my hands on, but the ukulele is really my strongest writing partner!'
'I’m thrilled to be sharing the bill with The Quiet American! They are very fun people! I love their knowledge of folk music and Americana and the information they can share about playing the ukulele in their workshops is amazing! I always try to sneak into the class they’re teaching! They have also been great sources of wisdom for me through my music career and life.'
Finally – the question that I end all interviews with… Let us know your best piece of advice for ukulele beginners?
'Keep it in tune and give yourself time to learn chords and learn how to switch easily from one to another! That’s the hardest part in the beginning! Also, don’t be afraid to challenge yourself to learn the next thing that may seem hard and impossible! I have that problem myself-pushing through the difficulty and practicing enough to master a new skill! Most importantly, have fun with it!'
Thanks Danielle – looking forward to seeing you play at GNUF this year!
Danielle Ate The Sandwich is one of the headline performers at this years Grand Northern Ukulele Festival in Huddersfield UK from 27-29 May.
Take a listen to one of Danielle's more recent songs below!
http://danielleatethesandwich.com
http://northernuke.com
https://www.youtube.com/user/daniellesmagic
© Barry Maz
Read More »
Got A Ukulele Interview - Danielle Ate The Sandwich
Time for another interview on Got A Ukulele and a performer I am delighted agreed to talk to the website. Danielle Anderson, who performs under her stage name of ‘Danielle Ate The Sandwich’ will be well known to ukulele fans around the world, perhaps from her rather excellent YouTube videos (some of which I have shared on this site) but also on account of her extremely well received live performances and enviable songwriting skills.
| Credit - Kaela Speicher |
Hi Danielle! Let’s start off with finding out a little more about how you started in music – what were your first experiences?
'I was in choir in school and church and took piano lessons as a kiddo. I studied violin from 4th grade until I graduated high school. I had always loved writing stories and poems! I have a notebook with songs I wrote from about 5th or 6th grade and some old cassette tapes with me singing some of my early songs. I taught myself to play guitar in high school, but kept my songs a secret until my early 20s! That also when I found the ukulele! I’m a late bloomer, so when I finally came out of my shell it was a bit of an explosion!'
So have you been mainly playing ukulele since or do you have other instruments at home?
'I play mostly ukulele, but this winter I got an electric guitar (with amp and effects) and a banjo. I think that different instruments can help unlock new songs or paths of creativity. Just like if you get a new haircut, you might walk a little bit differently down the street. Ukulele is a true love of mine, but I am willing to have flings with other instruments!'
That’s what I regularly tell my readers – it’s healthy to enjoy all sorts of instruments. Flings are allowed! Aside from the instruments themselves, what styles of music are your real loves?
'What I listen to on a daily basis and what inspires my music are a bit different! I love to find inspiration from folk, jazz and soul music. The lyrical styles found in all of them inspire my own, but I always love pop/jazz vocal melodies and as I develop my singing voice more, I love to let loose with some soul singing! In the car, I listen to pop radio and house/electronic music. The last album I got was Justin Bieber’s Purpose and I love it. It usually surprises people that I like mass consumed radio and cable TV.'
I’ve picked up a soul vibe on the vocals in many of your videos – is there a style you haven’t yet attempted as Danielle Ate The Sandwich but would like to? Do you think everything can work with the ukulele?
'There are songs I love, but can’t seem to make work well with just voice and ukulele. I don’t think that is a limit of the ukulele, so much as it is a limit of my own musical know-how. There are ukulele players who make it obvious to me the ukulele can do anything! James Hill is one of these players-he does Michael Jackson and Jimi Hendrix and his own amazing originals. I am proud to have been able to cover a lot of genres-soul, jazz, pop, rock, country. I would love to do some James Brown and have been working on a Doris Day cover for a long time now!'
| Credit - Corey Hardwick |
Like many artists on the ukulele circuit, you generated a lot of early success with your YouTube videos – how important do you think that channel is for new performers to get noticed?
'YouTube was a very important part of how I got my start and success! I think it’s a great help, but I don’t think it’s essential to success. I know a lot of people ask me how they should get started on YouTube and how they can get big there, but I think it’s a very hard thing to cultivate and it certainly not for everyone. It worked well for me because I got on right when it got big and I’m a goofy performer who loves to be in front of the camera. I don’t think anything I am doing is necessarily right for another musician and vice versa. I should do exactly what they’re doing and expect the same results. I believe that just like finding your musical style and artistic vision, you need to carve your own business path!'
And how did the ‘Ate The Sandwich’ name come about?
'It was in 2006, when i was making a myspace page for my music. I had to pick a URL for the page, so I was making a list of things to call myself and it came to mind. I think food (as an essential building block of life, as well as a visual thing) is fun and lovely. I like the word Sandwich-it’s got nice heavy consonants and sandwiches come in many different shapes and sizes! I didn’t want to change my last name or use a fake stage name, so I just thought what do you do with Sandwiches, you eat them. I’m Danielle, what do I do to Sandwiches? I eat them.'
As a musician, what do you get the biggest buzz from? Songwriting, live performance or a mix of all those things?
'Definitely a mix! I am a songwriter. I am living every day of my life, observing and experiencing every moment as a songwriter. It’s the difference between the question, “What do you do for a job?” and “Who are you?”'
That’s a good point. So tell me how the performance element gives you a buzz?
'Performance is something that I discovered I love in the last 10 years. It makes me feel alive in a different way! When I’m on stage, I’m brazen and liberated. I say what I think and I feel good about myself. The connection between the audience and a performer is really important to me. It’s wild to be two different people, one very timid and observing very quietly and another on fire and up in front of everyone!'
Does that feeling of being on fire come naturally to you? What are your tips for dealing with stage fright and nerves?
'I wasn’t always good on stage! It took me a very long time to face my fears and perform for the first time. When I finally found the courage to get up there, I had to perform several times before I enjoyed it. I was critical of how I did and usually got off the stage feeling terrible about myself. I was always saying, “That was terrible Danielle, but you can do better, you’ve got to try again and do better next time.” There was some fire under my butt that kept me getting back up there. I was always self deprecating and a little odd on stage, so my schtick is natural in the way that it happened the very first time I got up to perform and I’m still doing that today. The experience I was personally having got better and better as I got more experience on stage. I think of stage performance a lot like learning to play a song. You have to practice. You have to do it over and over, know what you’re doing if you mess up, know what you’re doing if you’re doing well, you have to know how to do it when people are talking or when people are REALLY listening. Performance is a skill and an artform! I really like it!
Audiences in the UK and Europe will be thrilled to see you are on the bill for this years Grand Northern Ukulele Festival. Is this your first time over to the UK?
'I travelled to Scotland in 2013 with friends, but didn’t play any shows! This will be my first time in England and my first time performing in the UK! It feels like a very important step for me professional as well as a person! I’m looking forward to the adventure!'
| Credit - Mercedes |
Well I think you are at one of the great ukulele festivals and am sure you will go down well. Of course you have played many other great places already! What would you say is a performance highlight in your career so far?
'I’ve done a few fancy things that people always like to hear about. I got to play the NPR Radio show, ETown with Mumford and Sons. I’ve also opened for Suzanne Vega and I’ve opened on tour for Pomplamoose. I’ve had a few experiences that were very rewarding and personal to me. Sometimes playing a show can be just like another day at work and other days you’re overcome with gratitude and emotions, getting to play your songs and getting to be where you are, sharing it with people.'
Wow! some great names there! What about venues?Do you have any dream stages or events you would like to play?
'My biggest (silly) dream is to be on Saturday Night Live as the musical guest and host! I’d also love to play larger, historic theaters and venues-the same kind of places where Damien Rice and Glen Hansard play! It’s great to be in a venue that helps bring alive your voice and songs, but can still be an intimate setting for you and your fans!'
Naturally, my readers are always keen to know what instruments artists use – tell us a little about your performance instruments.
'My first choice is always the ukulele! I play tenor the most often, but recently got into the baritone. My latest album, ‘The Drawing Back of Curtains’ was almost all baritone ukulele! And I find it’s been a great tool for writing! I play Mya-Moe brand ukuleles. I also play guitar occasionally and just got a banjo! I love to write on any instrument I can get my hands on, but the ukulele is really my strongest writing partner!'
I saw that you play Mya-Moe ukuleles – and obviously there is a connection there with Aaron Keim who you have also appeared in videos with. Are you pleased to be sharing the bill with Aaron and Nicole at GNUF? (nb readers - as well as being a performer, Aaron is a builder with Gordon and Char Mayer at Mya-Moe in the USA)
'I’m thrilled to be sharing the bill with The Quiet American! They are very fun people! I love their knowledge of folk music and Americana and the information they can share about playing the ukulele in their workshops is amazing! I always try to sneak into the class they’re teaching! They have also been great sources of wisdom for me through my music career and life.'
Finally – the question that I end all interviews with… Let us know your best piece of advice for ukulele beginners?
'Keep it in tune and give yourself time to learn chords and learn how to switch easily from one to another! That’s the hardest part in the beginning! Also, don’t be afraid to challenge yourself to learn the next thing that may seem hard and impossible! I have that problem myself-pushing through the difficulty and practicing enough to master a new skill! Most importantly, have fun with it!'
Thanks Danielle – looking forward to seeing you play at GNUF this year!
Danielle Ate The Sandwich is one of the headline performers at this years Grand Northern Ukulele Festival in Huddersfield UK from 27-29 May.
Take a listen to one of Danielle's more recent songs below!
http://danielleatethesandwich.com
http://northernuke.com
https://www.youtube.com/user/daniellesmagic
© Barry Maz
23 Jun 2015
23 Jun 2015T17:37
( DIRECT LINK )
And, if you like the music - the album is now available for download at the link below (and a review of it is coming on this site soon!!)
http://www.cheemaisel.com/digital-albums/scene-1-take-1-digital-download
© Barry Maz
Read More »
Sarah Maisel and Craig Chee - Come Back Home Video
Well this is rather nice. During their recent tour of the UK and Europe, Craig Chee documented their time over this side of the atlantic with photographs. Add in to that some video from Jim Colvin and a delightful tune from their latest album and you have this treat.
And the extra treat is seeing so many friends faces in the photographs. Oh, that and the fact I have never been in a music video before! I'm honoured!( DIRECT LINK )
And, if you like the music - the album is now available for download at the link below (and a review of it is coming on this site soon!!)
http://www.cheemaisel.com/digital-albums/scene-1-take-1-digital-download
© Barry Maz
25 May 2015
25 May 2015T14:59
Still in Huddersfield, Yorkshire, this year GNUF once again looked to develop itself further. 2014 was a huge event on the worlds ukulele calendar, headlined as it was by the Ukulele Orchestra Of Great Britain, but if there is one thing I have learned in the last few years about these organisers it's this. They DON'T rest on their laurels. They wanted to build further on 2014 to create another world class event, and I think they did just that. Heck, I won't even go with the usual pattern of building things up for the reader in order to give you the final, cheesy knockout punch that tells you what I thought. I'll say it right away. This was the best yet. By far.
This will be a long blog post, go grab yourself a coffee and read at your leisure!
Read More »
Grand Northern Ukulele Festival 2015 - Got A Ukulele Diary
Another year another ukulele festival...... Hang on, that sounds dismissive, that's not what I meant. For anyone who has ever been to a GNUF event before, this is not just another ukulele festival, it's a return to what I think is the best ukulele festival there is. So, eight months later, in a new earlier calendar slot, my third Grand Northern Ukulele Festival Diary.
Still in Huddersfield, Yorkshire, this year GNUF once again looked to develop itself further. 2014 was a huge event on the worlds ukulele calendar, headlined as it was by the Ukulele Orchestra Of Great Britain, but if there is one thing I have learned in the last few years about these organisers it's this. They DON'T rest on their laurels. They wanted to build further on 2014 to create another world class event, and I think they did just that. Heck, I won't even go with the usual pattern of building things up for the reader in order to give you the final, cheesy knockout punch that tells you what I thought. I'll say it right away. This was the best yet. By far.
This will be a long blog post, go grab yourself a coffee and read at your leisure!
29 Mar 2015
29 Mar 2015T22:49
The trouble with this post though, there are so many acts performing this year, that I couldn't possibly feature them all in one post. Your browser and your internet connections wouldn't thank me.... So first up, let's take a look at some of the headliners for 2015.
Manitoba Hal Brolund
A regular in the headline slot in festivals all around the world, and a top end performer. Hal has a natural 'blues gift' that transcends the ukulele he chooses to play it on. I've featured him on Got A Ukulele before which was a joy! Not to be missed.
Here he is performing at the UK's Southern Ukulele Store last year.
Sarah Maisel
Sarah made her UK debut in 2013 and absolutely blew the audiences away. Another Got A Ukulele interviewee, and another performer who not only oozes talent but is one of the nicest people you would ever meet. Can't wait to see her again.
Here she is performing in the UK in 2014. Sublime.
The Quiet American
The Quiet American are husband and wife duo Aaron and Nicole Keim from the USA, who deliver a great set of old time Americana with some style. I've not yet seen them live or met them, so I am really looking forward to this one.
Check out the video what also includes Keim Jr!
Craig Chee
Whilst understandably associated with Sarah Maisel since he became engaged to her (!), Craig has been an extremely well known name in his own right on the ukulele circuit and someone else I will be meeting for the first time this year.
Have a listen to him performing with Sarah and Ukulele Undergrounds own Aldrine Guerrero here.
Phil Doleman
Where would a UK festival be without an appearance from one of the UK's best loved stars - Phil Doleman? A real 'players player' and a jolly good egg too. Cover star of the new UKE Magazine as well don't you know?
Here he is at last years Uke East festival in Norwich.
Zoë Bestel
When she performed at her first ukulele festival last year at GNUF 2014 she absolutely knocked the audience sideways. I should know, I was there! A true rising star who is going to go on to great things in the world of music.
Oh boy that voice!
And there you go - she says herself that the Grand Northern Ukulele Festival was the best festival she has ever played at EVER! Wise words Zoë!
So that's about it for this main stage round up - but there are 30 plus artist in total across several stages. Really something for everyone. Hope I may see you there!
I know that tickets may well have run out now - but now it's time to book your Workshops!!
http://northernuke.com
© Barry Maz
Read More »
Grand Northern Ukulele Festival - A Main Stage Preview
Well, only about a couple of months to go before one of the worlds most 'feel good' ukulele festivals takes place in Huddersfield. Time, I think, for a preview of some of the leading acts on show this year.
The trouble with this post though, there are so many acts performing this year, that I couldn't possibly feature them all in one post. Your browser and your internet connections wouldn't thank me.... So first up, let's take a look at some of the headliners for 2015.
Manitoba Hal Brolund
A regular in the headline slot in festivals all around the world, and a top end performer. Hal has a natural 'blues gift' that transcends the ukulele he chooses to play it on. I've featured him on Got A Ukulele before which was a joy! Not to be missed.
Here he is performing at the UK's Southern Ukulele Store last year.
Sarah Maisel
Sarah made her UK debut in 2013 and absolutely blew the audiences away. Another Got A Ukulele interviewee, and another performer who not only oozes talent but is one of the nicest people you would ever meet. Can't wait to see her again.
Here she is performing in the UK in 2014. Sublime.
The Quiet American
The Quiet American are husband and wife duo Aaron and Nicole Keim from the USA, who deliver a great set of old time Americana with some style. I've not yet seen them live or met them, so I am really looking forward to this one.
Check out the video what also includes Keim Jr!
Craig Chee
Whilst understandably associated with Sarah Maisel since he became engaged to her (!), Craig has been an extremely well known name in his own right on the ukulele circuit and someone else I will be meeting for the first time this year.
Have a listen to him performing with Sarah and Ukulele Undergrounds own Aldrine Guerrero here.
Phil Doleman
Where would a UK festival be without an appearance from one of the UK's best loved stars - Phil Doleman? A real 'players player' and a jolly good egg too. Cover star of the new UKE Magazine as well don't you know?
Here he is at last years Uke East festival in Norwich.
Zoë Bestel
When she performed at her first ukulele festival last year at GNUF 2014 she absolutely knocked the audience sideways. I should know, I was there! A true rising star who is going to go on to great things in the world of music.
Oh boy that voice!
And there you go - she says herself that the Grand Northern Ukulele Festival was the best festival she has ever played at EVER! Wise words Zoë!
So that's about it for this main stage round up - but there are 30 plus artist in total across several stages. Really something for everyone. Hope I may see you there!
I know that tickets may well have run out now - but now it's time to book your Workshops!!
http://northernuke.com
© Barry Maz
15 Sept 2014
15 Sept 2014T15:38
FRIDAY
A slow start for me heading up to Huddersfield on what should have been a 90 minute journey. My thanks go out to the Department Of Transport for kindly laying on road works on every single stretch of road on my route, meaning my trip was more like 200 minutes. I arrived, road weary but immediately uplifted in the hotel bar seeing many old friends, main stage acts and thoughts of a night in the town.
The (un) official opening evening for the festival was arranged for the Head Of Steam pub in Huddersfield - a smashing real ale venue that had been the choice of a range of pre festival events for the GNUF team during the summer. On arrival I was greeted to a completely full front room that was already in full swing with a uke jam in progress.
Some beers later and the evening entertainment started with some beautiful playing from Lionel K Hubert in solo mode, and thereafter, the stage was taken over by other GNUF acts giving it what for.
With a late night ahead, retirement beckoned to the hotel bar, and 'late' does not really do it justice. Needless to say I had about two hours sleep before needing to get down to Huddersfield Town Hall the next day (same day?) for the start of the main event. Safe in the protection of my blog I blame Tim and Jake Smithies of Dead Mans Uke for leading me astray.... (my own free will doesn't come into it..)
SATURDAY
So, early start and a trek down to the Town Hall with a bunch of loan ukuleles that have featured on this blog that I needed to hand back. Wristbands picked up, hellos to the organising team. Its when you look into the programme that you realise just how much was actually going on this weekend. My apologies in advance, but I cannot include everyone in this diary. I really wanted to get a broad view of the variety at GNUF this year so please don't take it to heart if you are a workshopper or performer and I couldn't fit you in!
GNUF were keen this year to introduce more acts and another venue to the festival so had introduced the Festival Fringe, taking place at a rather wonderful record store in Huddersfield. The Fringe was also FREE to locals and really did create a kind of inclusive vibe to the event across the town. I managed to get there in time for Dead Mans Uke who absolutely blasted the place with a superb set. You may have seen pictures of them on this site, but you have to go see them - its only when their music starts and Jakes bass kicks in that you will really 'get it'. The venue was rammed and their reception was hot. Other artists on the Fringe Stage included Peter Moss, Lionel Hubert, Phil Doleman, Ukulelezaza and Michael Adcock, but with my young daughter in tow it was time for her lunch and for me to return to the HQ before the main stage opened.
This also gave me time to pop my head into a few workshops (and there was some serious variety here too - not just how to play lessons, but really interactive stuff like learning to play and sing with Tricity Vogue and The Mersey Belles, or making your own recording with the Mother Ukers). I also had a bit of time now to explore the Market place - a must for any uke festival. Such beautiful instruments on display - I could have spent a fortune. Sadly for me I am keeping the collection static for the time being, but I did come away with some loan ukes that will be featuring on the reviews section in the near future!
Opening the main stage were 'Some Like It Ossett' comprising Tony Casey from the GNUF team plus Jacqui Wicks, Joe Grant- Mills and Ralph Dartford. They went down extremely well and have a smashing sound. Then an act that will be featuring on Got A Ukulele very soon in the form of the Mersey Belles with their absolutely top drawer close harmony singing. In fact, as you will read on below, they offered their singing skills to festival visitors with their singing workshop too.
Next up, an act who I was really pleased had come to GNUF. I last saw Krabbers at N'Ukefest 2014 and his beautiful (and funny) songs were really appreciated by the audience and sounded just great.
Closing the first half of the concert were a band I have been dying to see for years - Mother Ukers. I think a lot of the audience may not have known what to expect here, but the reception they were given was tremendous. And why was that? Well they just exude energy, fun and talent. Pop covers like you have not heard before! Loved it.
Finally, the Saturday headliner, Del Rey. I have known who Del Rey is, but I will be honest and state that I had not seen much of her work on video. I am so glad she was there though. Appearing on stage with Adam Franklin this was a set of such talent, mainly on resonator instruments, but also guitars, or both. If you like your fingerpicked jazz and blues with style and humour this was the set for you. I totally adored it.
And finally - an all star jam saw the performers re join the stage for a hugely fun play out to the end of the night.
And with that, the night came to a close. More jam sessions were on their way in the pub, but I (please see above, 2 hours sleep remember...) needed to retreat to the hotel bar for a nightcap with a couple of the festival organisers and then bed...
SUNDAY
There was me thinking Sunday was a quieter day. Could not have been more wrong!
Back to the Town Hall for the opening session on the main stage with a 'Mashup' of performances between the musical acts which was huge fun. Then on to a performance from a trio of guys I am proud to call good friends - Chonkinfeckle! I could blog about how Tim got to bed at about 8.00am that day before needing to get to soundcheck for 10.30, but I won't (oops). Yet, they delivered a belting set - in fact they just get better and better the more I see them. This year they were joined on stage on tub bass by GNUF team member Paul McCann and Mia Lynch (her first time on stage) for a couple of songs and got a great reception from the crowd.
Next up, more good friends in the shape of The Anything Goes Orchestra. They tore the roof off the venue in their GNUF 2013 show did so again this year. They perform such a lively and tight set it really is hard not to dance (either in your seat, or in this case in the aisles and in front of the stage). Electric performance with good humour and great songs.
A quick but important word here about Heidi Bang Tidy, the compere for the weekend, and who was the perfect choice. So funny, and equally happy to joke at audience members as she was with performers. She just sparkles and keeps the thing moving with lots of style and good laughs. She even came down to the aisle during the TAGO set to dance with my 4 year old daughter... (her highlight of the whole weekend!).
And with that, the Town Hall came to a temporary close as the Ukulele Orchestra Of Great Britain had arrived. Not only did they need to sound check, but they were also running a workshop in the hall. But that didn't mean that the festival came to a close.
Just outside the Huddersfield Gallery and library, Space to Create had set up a marquee at the Piazza where more performances took place including shows from Ben Rouse (blistering) and Vonck and Vlam (spellbinding) amongst other workshops and open mic slots.
As for this blogger, my day was not over as I had been asked to join the judging panel for the Mersey Belles busk off performance. Earlier in the festival the Belles had each worked separately with two workshop groups to learn and perform 'Tonight You Belong To Me'. Each group had been taught the vocal part of one of the Belles, and then came together to perform the whole song. I think they thought of me as a Simon Cowell type (grumpy blogger that I am), but in reality their performances were superb and it was huge fun to be a part of.
5pm brought the act that all had been waiting for - the Ukulele Orchestra Of Great Britain. Sadly for me, a combination of being dead on my feet and day job commitments the next morning meant I had to bid my farewell to Huddersfield. Needless to say though, social media this morning has been FULL of compliments for their amazing set to close the festival. They even ended up performing in the hotel bar with other festival goers and performers. How cool?
So GNUF 2014 closes. In my book this one topped last year, and in fact has topped any uke festival I have been to. It's all about the 'feel' that the organising team put onto the event and a very clever choice of acts and mix of workshops and ideas. This is far more than just a hall you turn up to and watch some ukulele performances. There were things at every turn, and acts to delight all sorts of tastes. And of course there were NO egos here. The main acts really threw themselves into affairs and mingled and mixed with the crowds. I for one was so pleased to catch up with old friends and make new ones, and having had a bit of an iffy ukulele time recently the very warm words from many mean an awful lot to me. Well done to all of the organisers of this event and long may it continue!
In fact, as for it continuing - the date has been set for 2015 already with a return to Huddersfield on 22-24 May! Early bird tickets are now available on the link below! And what a line up it looks to be - Manitoba Hal, Aaron Keim, Sarah Maisel and Craig Chee, Phil Doleman, Zoë Bestel, Chonkinfeckle, Dead Mans Uke and many more.
Grab your tickets now!! http://www.northernuke.com/2015-festival/
Until next year!
Read More »
Grand Northern Ukulele Festival - Diary 2014
The dust settles and WHAT a weekend to look back on. Time for me to share my memories of this fantastic event - the Grand Northern Ukulele Festival 2014 held in Huddersfield, Yorkshire, UK.
FRIDAY
A slow start for me heading up to Huddersfield on what should have been a 90 minute journey. My thanks go out to the Department Of Transport for kindly laying on road works on every single stretch of road on my route, meaning my trip was more like 200 minutes. I arrived, road weary but immediately uplifted in the hotel bar seeing many old friends, main stage acts and thoughts of a night in the town.
The (un) official opening evening for the festival was arranged for the Head Of Steam pub in Huddersfield - a smashing real ale venue that had been the choice of a range of pre festival events for the GNUF team during the summer. On arrival I was greeted to a completely full front room that was already in full swing with a uke jam in progress.
| Friday Jam in the Head Of Steam |
| Lionel K Hubert |
SATURDAY
So, early start and a trek down to the Town Hall with a bunch of loan ukuleles that have featured on this blog that I needed to hand back. Wristbands picked up, hellos to the organising team. Its when you look into the programme that you realise just how much was actually going on this weekend. My apologies in advance, but I cannot include everyone in this diary. I really wanted to get a broad view of the variety at GNUF this year so please don't take it to heart if you are a workshopper or performer and I couldn't fit you in!
GNUF were keen this year to introduce more acts and another venue to the festival so had introduced the Festival Fringe, taking place at a rather wonderful record store in Huddersfield. The Fringe was also FREE to locals and really did create a kind of inclusive vibe to the event across the town. I managed to get there in time for Dead Mans Uke who absolutely blasted the place with a superb set. You may have seen pictures of them on this site, but you have to go see them - its only when their music starts and Jakes bass kicks in that you will really 'get it'. The venue was rammed and their reception was hot. Other artists on the Fringe Stage included Peter Moss, Lionel Hubert, Phil Doleman, Ukulelezaza and Michael Adcock, but with my young daughter in tow it was time for her lunch and for me to return to the HQ before the main stage opened.
| Dead Mans Uke |
This also gave me time to pop my head into a few workshops (and there was some serious variety here too - not just how to play lessons, but really interactive stuff like learning to play and sing with Tricity Vogue and The Mersey Belles, or making your own recording with the Mother Ukers). I also had a bit of time now to explore the Market place - a must for any uke festival. Such beautiful instruments on display - I could have spent a fortune. Sadly for me I am keeping the collection static for the time being, but I did come away with some loan ukes that will be featuring on the reviews section in the near future!
| Del Rey Jug Band Blues Party workshop |
| Team SUS at the marketplace |
Opening the main stage were 'Some Like It Ossett' comprising Tony Casey from the GNUF team plus Jacqui Wicks, Joe Grant- Mills and Ralph Dartford. They went down extremely well and have a smashing sound. Then an act that will be featuring on Got A Ukulele very soon in the form of the Mersey Belles with their absolutely top drawer close harmony singing. In fact, as you will read on below, they offered their singing skills to festival visitors with their singing workshop too.
| The Mersey Belles |
Next up, an act who I was really pleased had come to GNUF. I last saw Krabbers at N'Ukefest 2014 and his beautiful (and funny) songs were really appreciated by the audience and sounded just great.
Closing the first half of the concert were a band I have been dying to see for years - Mother Ukers. I think a lot of the audience may not have known what to expect here, but the reception they were given was tremendous. And why was that? Well they just exude energy, fun and talent. Pop covers like you have not heard before! Loved it.
| Mother Ukers |
| Mother Ukers Barnaby has his light bulb moment |
A short break and then an act I have also been wanting to see for a long time. I first hooked up with Tricity Vogue some years ago on this site, but had never seen her perform live. This year she was at GNUF with her 'All Girl Swing Band' and WOW. Just WOW. They absolutely lit up the room with their sound, talent and energy. Originals, retro styled pop numbers and the wonderful tap dancing of Josephine Shaker (at one point dressed as a penguin!) blew the audience away. A REAL highlight of my festival weekend with no doubt.
| Tricity Vogue All Girl Swing Band |
You know how a good festival should have one of those artists who just captures the room? Well say hello to Zoë Bestel who had the audience open mouthed with the quality of her performance and sublime vocals. Seriously people, watch this space with Zoë as she will be going on to much much bigger things in a very short space of time, I am sure of it. No word of a lie, there were people in the audience in tears.
| Zoë Bestel |
Next up, a man who is probably the most experienced performer at the festival in Mr Andy Eastwood. Dare I use the word 'extravaganza'? Andy is a multi instrumentalist (in fact I am not sure there is much he CAN'T play) who put on a high energy performance which left the audience speechless. There are those who just pin the act as a 'Formby thing' but that misses out SO much. Yes he plays a banjolele, but you need to hear his work on wooden uke, violin and more. Mesmerising musicianship.
| Andy Eastwood |
Finally, the Saturday headliner, Del Rey. I have known who Del Rey is, but I will be honest and state that I had not seen much of her work on video. I am so glad she was there though. Appearing on stage with Adam Franklin this was a set of such talent, mainly on resonator instruments, but also guitars, or both. If you like your fingerpicked jazz and blues with style and humour this was the set for you. I totally adored it.
| Del Rey with Adam Franklin |
And finally - an all star jam saw the performers re join the stage for a hugely fun play out to the end of the night.
And with that, the night came to a close. More jam sessions were on their way in the pub, but I (please see above, 2 hours sleep remember...) needed to retreat to the hotel bar for a nightcap with a couple of the festival organisers and then bed...
SUNDAY
There was me thinking Sunday was a quieter day. Could not have been more wrong!
| GNUF team member Robert Collins with a couple of mascots |
Back to the Town Hall for the opening session on the main stage with a 'Mashup' of performances between the musical acts which was huge fun. Then on to a performance from a trio of guys I am proud to call good friends - Chonkinfeckle! I could blog about how Tim got to bed at about 8.00am that day before needing to get to soundcheck for 10.30, but I won't (oops). Yet, they delivered a belting set - in fact they just get better and better the more I see them. This year they were joined on stage on tub bass by GNUF team member Paul McCann and Mia Lynch (her first time on stage) for a couple of songs and got a great reception from the crowd.
| Chonkinfeckle |
Next up, more good friends in the shape of The Anything Goes Orchestra. They tore the roof off the venue in their GNUF 2013 show did so again this year. They perform such a lively and tight set it really is hard not to dance (either in your seat, or in this case in the aisles and in front of the stage). Electric performance with good humour and great songs.
| The Anything Goes Orchestra |
| TAGO |
A quick but important word here about Heidi Bang Tidy, the compere for the weekend, and who was the perfect choice. So funny, and equally happy to joke at audience members as she was with performers. She just sparkles and keeps the thing moving with lots of style and good laughs. She even came down to the aisle during the TAGO set to dance with my 4 year old daughter... (her highlight of the whole weekend!).
| Heidi Bang Tidy |
And with that, the Town Hall came to a temporary close as the Ukulele Orchestra Of Great Britain had arrived. Not only did they need to sound check, but they were also running a workshop in the hall. But that didn't mean that the festival came to a close.
Just outside the Huddersfield Gallery and library, Space to Create had set up a marquee at the Piazza where more performances took place including shows from Ben Rouse (blistering) and Vonck and Vlam (spellbinding) amongst other workshops and open mic slots.
| Vonck and Vlam |
| Ben Rouse |
As for this blogger, my day was not over as I had been asked to join the judging panel for the Mersey Belles busk off performance. Earlier in the festival the Belles had each worked separately with two workshop groups to learn and perform 'Tonight You Belong To Me'. Each group had been taught the vocal part of one of the Belles, and then came together to perform the whole song. I think they thought of me as a Simon Cowell type (grumpy blogger that I am), but in reality their performances were superb and it was huge fun to be a part of.
| Mersey Belles Busk Off performance |
5pm brought the act that all had been waiting for - the Ukulele Orchestra Of Great Britain. Sadly for me, a combination of being dead on my feet and day job commitments the next morning meant I had to bid my farewell to Huddersfield. Needless to say though, social media this morning has been FULL of compliments for their amazing set to close the festival. They even ended up performing in the hotel bar with other festival goers and performers. How cool?
So GNUF 2014 closes. In my book this one topped last year, and in fact has topped any uke festival I have been to. It's all about the 'feel' that the organising team put onto the event and a very clever choice of acts and mix of workshops and ideas. This is far more than just a hall you turn up to and watch some ukulele performances. There were things at every turn, and acts to delight all sorts of tastes. And of course there were NO egos here. The main acts really threw themselves into affairs and mingled and mixed with the crowds. I for one was so pleased to catch up with old friends and make new ones, and having had a bit of an iffy ukulele time recently the very warm words from many mean an awful lot to me. Well done to all of the organisers of this event and long may it continue!
| The Main Hall |
In fact, as for it continuing - the date has been set for 2015 already with a return to Huddersfield on 22-24 May! Early bird tickets are now available on the link below! And what a line up it looks to be - Manitoba Hal, Aaron Keim, Sarah Maisel and Craig Chee, Phil Doleman, Zoë Bestel, Chonkinfeckle, Dead Mans Uke and many more.
Grab your tickets now!! http://www.northernuke.com/2015-festival/
Until next year!
| GNUF 2015 flyer |
12 Sept 2014
12 Sept 2014T10:05
Concerts galore, stalls, workshops, open mics, jams, festival cider! If you are going, I look forward to meeting you there. If you are not, then why not??
Keep an eye on this site during the weekend as I will be blogging my Festival Diary from the event covering as much as I can fit in from both days.
http://www.northernuke.com
Read More »
Got A Ukulele Off To GNUF!
Well the car packing is about to commence, then off to the biggest UK uke event of the year - the Grand Northern Ukulele Festival in Huddersfield!
Concerts galore, stalls, workshops, open mics, jams, festival cider! If you are going, I look forward to meeting you there. If you are not, then why not??
Keep an eye on this site during the weekend as I will be blogging my Festival Diary from the event covering as much as I can fit in from both days.
http://www.northernuke.com
31 Aug 2014
31 Aug 2014T18:27
Anyway, I have to kick off with the totally awesome headliners. I believe I am correct in saying that this is their first Ukulele Festival appearance, so a true treat for those attending. They need little more introduction from me - its THE UKULELE ORCHESTRA OF GREAT BRITAIN!!!
Also on the main stage, a performer I am keen to see who plays sublime rhythmic blues and ragtime. Again I think this is her first UK Uke Fest appearance - its Del Ray!
Next up, a band I have not yet seen live, but love their arrangements. I suspect a good many people at the fest know at least one third of the band in the shape of Paul Tucker of the Southern Ukulele Store - its Mother Ukers! ( I had to share this one - anyone covering Janes Addiction on uke is ok by me!)
One of the youngest performers at the festival, Zoë Bestel has the voice of an angel and has already been recognised as a huge talent, with comparisons being drawn to KT Tunstall and Amy MacDonald
Next, somebody I am really looking forward to meeting in the flesh - I've interviewed Tricity Vogue on this blog and also reviewed one of her CD's - she performs with her All Girl Swing Band.
And for those wanting a dance - returning to the festival since they absolutely nailed their 2013 performance at GNUF, its the Anything Goes Orchestra!
Beyond that, they also have the likes of the Mersey Belles, Krabbers, Andy Eastwood, Chonkinfeckle, Phil Doleman, Some Like It Ossett, Ukulelezaza, Lionel K Hubert, Vonck and Vlam, Peter Moss, Michael Adcock, Eek, Uke Of Carl and more surprises to come. What I really like is the variety across the acts - really is something for everyone.
There are some tickets still available, but I believe it is now already the biggest uke festival in the UK with sales to date! 13-14 September, Huddersfield, UK
http://www.northernuke.com
Read More »
Grand Northern Ukulele Festival 2014 - Main Stage Treats!
Only a couple of weeks to go now, and thought I would share some of the delights that you will see on the main stage at this years Grand Northern Ukulele Festival at Huddersfield this year.
In fact, the whole weekend has SO many act performing I have to apologise in advance as I can't list videos of every performer - frankly this page would then load so slowly it would be useless - but if you are thinking of going, this is just a taster. The event also has workshops, a full fringe event with many performers of true renown playing in unusual venues around the town and lots of other surprises too.Anyway, I have to kick off with the totally awesome headliners. I believe I am correct in saying that this is their first Ukulele Festival appearance, so a true treat for those attending. They need little more introduction from me - its THE UKULELE ORCHESTRA OF GREAT BRITAIN!!!
Also on the main stage, a performer I am keen to see who plays sublime rhythmic blues and ragtime. Again I think this is her first UK Uke Fest appearance - its Del Ray!
Next up, a band I have not yet seen live, but love their arrangements. I suspect a good many people at the fest know at least one third of the band in the shape of Paul Tucker of the Southern Ukulele Store - its Mother Ukers! ( I had to share this one - anyone covering Janes Addiction on uke is ok by me!)
One of the youngest performers at the festival, Zoë Bestel has the voice of an angel and has already been recognised as a huge talent, with comparisons being drawn to KT Tunstall and Amy MacDonald
Next, somebody I am really looking forward to meeting in the flesh - I've interviewed Tricity Vogue on this blog and also reviewed one of her CD's - she performs with her All Girl Swing Band.
And for those wanting a dance - returning to the festival since they absolutely nailed their 2013 performance at GNUF, its the Anything Goes Orchestra!
Beyond that, they also have the likes of the Mersey Belles, Krabbers, Andy Eastwood, Chonkinfeckle, Phil Doleman, Some Like It Ossett, Ukulelezaza, Lionel K Hubert, Vonck and Vlam, Peter Moss, Michael Adcock, Eek, Uke Of Carl and more surprises to come. What I really like is the variety across the acts - really is something for everyone.
There are some tickets still available, but I believe it is now already the biggest uke festival in the UK with sales to date! 13-14 September, Huddersfield, UK
http://www.northernuke.com
11 Aug 2014
11 Aug 2014T10:31
On the playing side you can learn tips and tricks from the likes of Phil Doleman (who has created brand new classes for this festival covering unlocking the fingerboard and blues) and Chonkinfeckle's Les Hilton looking at open tunings, this year based around the Van Morrison classic, Brown Eyed Girl. Ken Middleton also makes a return to the workshop section.
GNUF also have new workshop additions from the likes of Del Ray (one of the festival headliners, with a Jug Band Blues party), Andy Eastwood (one of the most technically gifted players I have seen on stage) who is teaching Formby styles, and the magnificent Ukulelezaza teaching the 12th Street Rag. Also recently added is a workshop from Peter Moss - a hugely talented player and well respected tutor who is teaching chord sequences, minor chords and timing. Like your jazz? Adam Franklin will be on hand to teach 20's and 30's hot jazz rhythm picking styles.
On offer are a singing / busking workshop with the Mersey Belles in which you will get to perform on stage with them, musical clowning with Vonck and Vlam, and one I particularly like in which you will get to learn to record a song with the Mother Ukers, and then get a download of it after the festival. It will also appear on a future Mother Ukers album!
Read More »
Workshops With A Difference at The Grand Northern Ukulele Festival
One thing that you will always find at a ukulele festival are players workshops. Its something of a peculiarity that goes with the instrument I guess, but they are always hugely popular with those attending. The most common sort of workshops are the 'learn how to play' type, where you can often learn along with some of the headline acts from the show. This year though, the team at the Grand Northern Ukulele Festival have decided to offer some extra workshops with a difference which certainly look exciting!
In fact, GNUF this year are promising that EVERY playing workshop is brand new - they have never been done at other UK festivals, ever! Their workshops cover three distinct types this year - playing, performing and making. Check out the full listing on the grid below.| Click to enlarge |
| Phil Doleman |
On the playing side you can learn tips and tricks from the likes of Phil Doleman (who has created brand new classes for this festival covering unlocking the fingerboard and blues) and Chonkinfeckle's Les Hilton looking at open tunings, this year based around the Van Morrison classic, Brown Eyed Girl. Ken Middleton also makes a return to the workshop section.
| Andy Eastwood |
GNUF also have new workshop additions from the likes of Del Ray (one of the festival headliners, with a Jug Band Blues party), Andy Eastwood (one of the most technically gifted players I have seen on stage) who is teaching Formby styles, and the magnificent Ukulelezaza teaching the 12th Street Rag. Also recently added is a workshop from Peter Moss - a hugely talented player and well respected tutor who is teaching chord sequences, minor chords and timing. Like your jazz? Adam Franklin will be on hand to teach 20's and 30's hot jazz rhythm picking styles.
| The Mother Ukers |
And finally, what a delight it would be to appear on the main festival stage with Tricity Vogue and her All Girl Swing Band! Yes, you can do that too.
| Tricity Vogue and her All Girl Swing Band |
And then on to 'making', GNUF returns with two great hands on workshops from last year which were HUGELY popular last year. Making a wash tub bass or making a Diddly Bow with master UK Luthier Rob Collins. At both you get to keep the instrument you made!
| Rob Collins with Diddly Bow |
So why am I telling you all this? Well places on these are going really FAST, with some I didn't mention sold out now, so not long to go. The festival takes place on 13-14 September in Huddersfield. If you want to attend a workshop, DON'T leave it until you get there as you may be disappointed.
All details on the workshops can be found at http://www.northernuke.com/2014-festival/workshops/
I will be at the festival too if you want to come and say hello! Roll on September!
14 Oct 2013
14 Oct 2013T10:16
So in we go and some more hello's to new faces and a chat about the day before with old. I suspect this blog post will serve to be a little more reflective than Day 1, mainly because I have more time to write it! But on that point, the common theme people seemed to agree on about GNUF - it was about as friendly and inclusive as a festival or get together could be. Everywhere you turned, people were smiling, chatting and making new introductions. Had a real nice 'feel' to it.
I popped back in to the Grand Bazaar stall area which had changed around a little. The guys at Southern Ukulele Store needed to head back the day before, but Omega Music had expanded their stall (or so it seemed) and were having a great day, including selling a Godin Multiuke that you know I like so much. Omega's range of ukes is really starting to grow well and was good to see them as dealers for Bruko and carrying quite a range of their ukes.
Meanwhile on the MainStage, Krabbers was leading the 'Unplug The Wood' session to the audience. This is a great idea and stems from what he does with a club at home. On stage were a trio of performers, amplified, and next to them a large projected songbook. They led the singing and playing and the audience joined in - kind of the perfect club jam but on a huge scale. It went down really well and I thought the choice of songs was inspiring as it was miles away from the usual ukulele songbook which seems to be repeated through so many clubs.
Next up, and possibly with the award for the greatest band name ever were the Leeds duo that are 'Ukulele Bitchslap', delivering a witty set of ironic / sarcastic covers which had the audience smiling. Nicely done.
Some more time now mooching around the venue and catching up with people. And yet again, everyone you spoke to was reflecting on what a great event it had been. Those stalls really are alluring, and over the weekend arranged with Matt at Saigon Guitars to take a look at his Noah Ukes on Got A Ukulele (watch this space!). It was also good to see some new traders such as Eagle Music and a homebrew beer stall! And what a genius idea it was to get a nail bar at a uke festival! They did a roaring trade, and were christened Ukunaile by Clarice Wokes!
Outside I spotted the compere for Day 1, Martyn 'Eek' Cooper being told by Uke Box's Marko van der Horst remarking that his oversize jumper didn't quite fit... He then quickly saw to that!
A word about the compères for the weekend. It's essential to get good people to this job, to keep the thing moving between acts and inject some humour into proceedings. They did that in spades, and really entertained the crowd. Special mention goes to Heidi Bang Tidy, the queen of burlesque who compèred the second day. She was funny / naughty and just great to listen to. Oh, and she was also responsible for calling out the raffle prize winners in which I bagged a rather nice thin body Ohana Tenor uke!! (People - there is a comments box below for you to deliver the jealous notes..... just kidding).
Back in the main hall, Emily Scott delivered a quite beautiful, laid back, melancholic set, accompanied by strings which was rather nice and had those 'pin drop' moments going on in the hall. Emily is based in Glasgow and is worth checking out.
And before you know it, it was time for the final act to close the festival. For that you need something that is going to send people home with a bang. Boy did the organisers deliver on that front. To the stage came Sheffield based five piece The Anything Goes Orchestra. This is a band who play a range of songs with a leaning towards more old time numbers delivered with fire and style. And the audience got that by the bucketload.
From the first track the whole room was jumping, punters were jiving in the aisles, clapping, singing along. Their stagecraft is just superb and you can see them really enjoying themselves, ribbing each other during songs and generally having a great time. And it's quite beyond my how Jake 'The Shake" Smithies manages to play double bass so well and so tightly whilst doing everything with it apart from swinging it around his head - brilliant. And to top it all off, they finished their set to a raucous, noisy, footstamping call for an encore that the organisers just couldn't ignore despite working to a tight deadline. What more can I say? Well, I am going to stick my neck out here: I loved Day 1, and there were some stellar performances, but the TAGO set was, for me, the act of the festival - I could have watched them all night, and I'd urge you to try to see them if you can.
All good things must come to an end, and the stage then filled with the performers from the weekend, together with organisers and volunteers to lead the whole room with a playalong. Led by Phil Doleman, the whole room joined in to the Beatles 'Little Help From My Friends'. What a great end.
Out on to the drizzly streets of Pontefract, hugs and goodbyes to friends old and new, getting jostled by people carrying workshop diddly bows and washtub basses, a smile on every single face. In my opinion, a total success. And as something that just developed from a conversation organised by Mary Agnes Krell, she and her team should be completely proud of themselves. They pleased the audience, they worked tirelessly behind the scenes in the months beforehand to bring it together. They also worked with local charities to put something back into the community such as the Pontefract Miners Recreation Charity and Faceless Arts. So a thank you from this blogger to Mary, Tony Casey, Rob Collins, Lou Armer, Paul McCann and Kris Ball, as well as all the volunteers who helped you (yes that's another mention to you Clarice Wokes!).
Same time next year? Yes please!
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Grand Northern Ukulele Festival Diary - GNUF Day 2
GNUF DAY 2! Well, as you read yesterday, Day 1 at the Grand Northern Ukulele Festival was a blast, even if it did find me posting my diary report through the fog of a hangover... But with that blog posted and some breakfast wolfed down, it was back to Pontefract Town Hall for Day 2 - could it be even better?
There is something quite amusing about starting your second day at a festival which followed a very 'good' night - you realise most people are walking around in the same sort of daze that you are! (I say most people - some were sensible!!). That also explains why I made the complete mistake of not charging the camera battery and as such my pics from Day 2 are taken with a cameraphone. Unforgiveable as a blogger, but I blame Tim Cooke, Les Hilton, Mike Warren and Paul Redfern who 'forced' me to be propping the bar up until late the night before (just kidding fellas!)So in we go and some more hello's to new faces and a chat about the day before with old. I suspect this blog post will serve to be a little more reflective than Day 1, mainly because I have more time to write it! But on that point, the common theme people seemed to agree on about GNUF - it was about as friendly and inclusive as a festival or get together could be. Everywhere you turned, people were smiling, chatting and making new introductions. Had a real nice 'feel' to it.
I popped back in to the Grand Bazaar stall area which had changed around a little. The guys at Southern Ukulele Store needed to head back the day before, but Omega Music had expanded their stall (or so it seemed) and were having a great day, including selling a Godin Multiuke that you know I like so much. Omega's range of ukes is really starting to grow well and was good to see them as dealers for Bruko and carrying quite a range of their ukes.
| Matt on the Omega Music Stand |
Meanwhile on the MainStage, Krabbers was leading the 'Unplug The Wood' session to the audience. This is a great idea and stems from what he does with a club at home. On stage were a trio of performers, amplified, and next to them a large projected songbook. They led the singing and playing and the audience joined in - kind of the perfect club jam but on a huge scale. It went down really well and I thought the choice of songs was inspiring as it was miles away from the usual ukulele songbook which seems to be repeated through so many clubs.
| Unplug The Wood |
Next up, and possibly with the award for the greatest band name ever were the Leeds duo that are 'Ukulele Bitchslap', delivering a witty set of ironic / sarcastic covers which had the audience smiling. Nicely done.
Some more time now mooching around the venue and catching up with people. And yet again, everyone you spoke to was reflecting on what a great event it had been. Those stalls really are alluring, and over the weekend arranged with Matt at Saigon Guitars to take a look at his Noah Ukes on Got A Ukulele (watch this space!). It was also good to see some new traders such as Eagle Music and a homebrew beer stall! And what a genius idea it was to get a nail bar at a uke festival! They did a roaring trade, and were christened Ukunaile by Clarice Wokes!
| Simon Grove taking advantage of the nail bar |
Outside I spotted the compere for Day 1, Martyn 'Eek' Cooper being told by Uke Box's Marko van der Horst remarking that his oversize jumper didn't quite fit... He then quickly saw to that!
| Eek and Marko get close |
A word about the compères for the weekend. It's essential to get good people to this job, to keep the thing moving between acts and inject some humour into proceedings. They did that in spades, and really entertained the crowd. Special mention goes to Heidi Bang Tidy, the queen of burlesque who compèred the second day. She was funny / naughty and just great to listen to. Oh, and she was also responsible for calling out the raffle prize winners in which I bagged a rather nice thin body Ohana Tenor uke!! (People - there is a comments box below for you to deliver the jealous notes..... just kidding).
Back in the main hall, Emily Scott delivered a quite beautiful, laid back, melancholic set, accompanied by strings which was rather nice and had those 'pin drop' moments going on in the hall. Emily is based in Glasgow and is worth checking out.
| Emily Scott |
And before you know it, it was time for the final act to close the festival. For that you need something that is going to send people home with a bang. Boy did the organisers deliver on that front. To the stage came Sheffield based five piece The Anything Goes Orchestra. This is a band who play a range of songs with a leaning towards more old time numbers delivered with fire and style. And the audience got that by the bucketload.
| TAGO - (L-R Doc Strong, Tim Smithies, Dave Thornett (drums), Mighty Mo, Jake The Shake) |
| Rocking! |
From the first track the whole room was jumping, punters were jiving in the aisles, clapping, singing along. Their stagecraft is just superb and you can see them really enjoying themselves, ribbing each other during songs and generally having a great time. And it's quite beyond my how Jake 'The Shake" Smithies manages to play double bass so well and so tightly whilst doing everything with it apart from swinging it around his head - brilliant. And to top it all off, they finished their set to a raucous, noisy, footstamping call for an encore that the organisers just couldn't ignore despite working to a tight deadline. What more can I say? Well, I am going to stick my neck out here: I loved Day 1, and there were some stellar performances, but the TAGO set was, for me, the act of the festival - I could have watched them all night, and I'd urge you to try to see them if you can.
All good things must come to an end, and the stage then filled with the performers from the weekend, together with organisers and volunteers to lead the whole room with a playalong. Led by Phil Doleman, the whole room joined in to the Beatles 'Little Help From My Friends'. What a great end.
| The closing song |
| Happy punters |
Same time next year? Yes please!
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