“Of all the beautiful towns it has been my fortune to see, this is the chief”.

Legendary author Mark Twain had this to say about the city of Hartford, Connecticut during his tenure as a resident here while raising his family and writing his most famous works in the “City of Dreams”. Today Hartford is fondly known as the “Insurance Capital of the World” with this being the region’s main industry. Among the hustle and bustle of Hartford’s business world there remains a deep cultural factor. The Bushnell Centre for the Performing Arts, Cathedral of St Joseph, Connecticut Science Centre, and the Elizabeth Park and Rose Garden are a few of the historical points of interest.

Any Ukesters around? Well, the first group you should get in contact with is the Ukulele Society of Connecticut. Founder Geoffrey R. Rezek has a deep passion for everything uke-related and is looking for one million ukulele players. How do you qualify? You already have! Your Bondi Uke will open these doors instantly to set you on your path. Geoffrey can be contacted on the email address listed below. Get in there!

ukulele@grrezekassociates.com

A fifteen-minute drive East will put you in the territory of Dr Uke and his merry Uke-Patients in Glastonbury, CT. This group meets twice a month and their main purpose is to provide an atmosphere for ukulele enthusiasts of all ages and abilities to meet regularly where they can play songs, share techniques and learn. Arrive early for the beginner’s class and stick around to enjoy the BIG SING. Song lists are available on their website (listed below) and you can contact Dr Uke himself on the email address given.

doc@doctoruke.com

http://www.doctoruke.com/gluc.html

If you feel like attracting friends or family to the Uke, why not book a performance with the Four Strings Ukulele Band of Southern Connecticut? These veterans of life and strum can perform anywhere and for any size crowd. Their repertoire includes classics, popular tunes and renditions of all your favourites and transform your party or function into a ukulele extravaganza. Who knows, you might even be asked to do a cameo appearance with your new Bondi Uke by your side. Contact the Four Strings on the weblink listed below.

http://www.orgsites.com/ct/uke-club/_pgg5.php3

An hour’s cruise East from Hartford in Danbury, CT you’ll meet the Hat City Uke Club who meet regularly at the Danbury Senior Centre. They’ve been strumming for over ten years and all levels of skill are welcome to join in the fun. Expect popular tunes like “Ain’t Misbehavin’”, “BayFace” and “Are you Lonesome Tonight” to headline to sessions among other classics. Get in touch with this lively bunch on the weblink listed below.

https://www.newstimes.com/news/article/Danbury-ukulele-group-keeps-on-rocking-6663524.php

Well there you have it, folks. Hartford isn’t all work and no play as one would expect. These people know how to get down and strum their ukes until the cows come home, or at least until they can play all of their favourite songs together and have a great time.

Keep strumming, all!