Ukulele For Everyone In Ogden, Utah

If one ukulele can conjure up fond memories of Mai Tais, warm ocean water and tropical trade winds, imagine what a few dozen could do.  

Utah is no stranger to the ukulele, and the state – known for its crimson-colored spire-shaped rock formations, sprawling reserves, and emerald green lakes – is full of enthusiasts. Its premier ukulele festival, aptly named the Utah Ukulele Festival, utilizes the motto: “Aloha Spirit: Unity, humility, and harmony. Sharing aloha through music and culture” throughout its free outdoor event. Showcasing its love for the ukulele and Hawaiian culture, the festival in Logan features family-friendly musical performances, workshops for all skill levels, an open mic competition and some of the state’s best ukulele vendors.  

Enthusiasts from all across Utah gather to take part in the event around August of every year, but locals who are interested in playing the ukulele year-round need not look further than an hour south, in Ogden.  

Proud to call the city known for its historic buildings and proximity to the Wasatch Mountains home, the Utah Ukulele Association is a club for everyone and anyone who is interested in playing the uke. Jam sessions allow members to learn new songs, build their strumming skills, fine-tune their playing and learn about the ukulele in a no-stress atmosphere. Like most ukulele clubs, the Utah Ukulele Association uses The Daily Ukulele during each meeting, but members are encouraged to bring songs that are not in the book to share with others. Those skilled in other string instruments are also welcome to join – and, if you’re up for it, perform during – the meetings. The club gets together every Wednesday at 7:00pm at Golden Hours Senior Center (650 25th St).  

Of course, many uke enthusiasts find just one club is often not enough to satisfy their uke craving – in which case, Salt Lake City and its Salt Lake Strummers lies just 40 minutes away. The group meets on the third Saturday of every month at Millcreek Community Library (2266 E. Evergreen Ave). According to the club’s Meetup page, “experience ranges from ‘not much’ to ‘may or may not be a conductor,’” so anyone – regardless of their skill – will fit right in.  

Whether you’re a beginner looking to learn more about the ukulele or a fine-tuned enthusiast searching for like-minded people, the uke community in Ogden, Utah and its surrounding area will surely welcome you with open arms.