Think Norfolk, Virginia and images of proud Naval vessels navigating the waters surrounding the city comes to mind. Among the many military homes and families that call Norfolk home, music makes it’s stand prominently. The Virginia Opera was founded in 1974 and in the Harrison Opera House they have staged many a breath-taking show for locals and tourists alike. Museums are a forte of this city and among the most notable attractions are the USS Wisconsin which was the last battleship to be constructed in the US and has served in World War 2, and later in the Korean and Gulf wars.

The humble ukulele is in its baby steps in Virginia, however if your Bondi Uke is need of some company, there are options around. A short drive east to Virginia Beach will lead you to a group called The Kings of Ukulele. Founded in 2006 the Kings play a wide variety of music and have shared the stage with recording artists such as Mishka, The Beach Boys and Marilyn Manson. They perform at regular events and festivals and are a crowd favourite. You can catch up with these Uke-Renegades on the weblink listed below.

https://www.beachstreetusa.com/kings-ukulele 

A few miles north in Fredericksburg, Virginia you’ll find the River City Ukulele Society. From ukulele nights to ensemble gatherings at multiple venues, this group pulls out all the stops when it comes to uke-ing. Workshops are also a regular occurrence and they welcome players of all levels and abilities to join in the fun. They invite players from all over to perform and give valuable tips to beginners and the seasoned among us. If you’d like to join up with this lively bunch, have a look at their Facebook page which is listed below.  

https://www.facebook.com/groups/rivercityuke/about/

Did somebody say “Festivals”? Indeed. The annual Ukefest Virginia is held at the Cultural Arts Centre in Glen Allen. This is a fun celebration brought to you by the River City Ukulele Society. There are workshops, concerts and a community stage where you can join in with a group and impress the revellers to their heart’s content. Friends from far and wide are welcome, all you need is your Bondi Uke and loads of enthusiasm. So head on over to the Ukefest Virgina Website (listed below) and save the date to attend this exciting spectacle of all things ukulele.

https://www.ukefestva.com/artists 

If lessons and proper tutelage is at the top of your to-do list, then Mr Wesley Stevenson is your man at the Virginia Beach Library. Wesley has been teaching for over ten years and all levels of strummers are welcome. You can get a hold of Wesley on the weblink below.

https://pilotonline.com/news/local/article_84bdf11e-d0ae-5c1c-9227-607fb20a86ab.html

Navigating your way through the rich military and historical landmarks of Norfolk and surrounds, you’ll find more than enough inspiration to take your ukulele game to the next level. Whether you’re a Norfolk native or just passing through, make sure to check out the growing uke scene in Virginia with your Bondi Uke by your side.

Keep strumming, all!