Ukuleles! and JFK 5th HW

Ukuleles are in!

If you have not already heard, the Franklin Elementary music staff wrote and received a grant from the FEA to start a ukulele program for 5th graders at all of the elementary schools in Franklin! With the grant and generosity of the Franklin Music Boosters we were able to buy enough ukuleles for at least half a class!

Unlike recorders, the ukuleles will have to stay at school. Many parents have been asking about ukuleles as a gift for their child for the holidays!

I thought I would share the ukuleles we purchased to help guide you in getting a ukulele that will be durable and have a great sound!

Ukuleles:
These are the ukuleles we purchased. We received it at a discount because of our large order but you may be able to shop around and find it at a better price.
http://www.musicarts.com/Kala-Makala-Soprano-Ukulele-MAIN0113851-i4728379.mac
Description from West Music rep below:

For the classroom, I highly recommend the 303685 Makala (by Kala) MK-S Soprano Ukulele.  It is a traditional wood model that plays really well - with nice geared tuners and the highly sought after Aquila nylgut strings.  The bridge is set up to have the strings wrapped around and knotted in place, which is the most reliable and secure for peace of mind.  I know that you will be pleased with the quality and sound of this ukulele! Here is a link:

http://www.westmusic.com/p/kala-mk-s-makala-soprano-ukulele-303685

Another choice described by West Music rep:

The Makala Dolphin model you mentioned is in the same series.  It features a molded plastic body over a wood top and painted in a variety of bright colors (black, blue, green, pink, purple, red, white, etc.) and is comparable in price.  These  play really well due to the Aquila nylgut strings, metal frets, and rosewood fretboard and bridge.  The tone is not as warm as the MK-S wood model, but has plenty of volume and projection.  These Dolphin models are extremely durable due to the plastic construction.  Here is link for more info:

http://kalabrand.com/ukulele/makala-dolphins

Ukulele String Tuner:
I also recommend getting your child a tuner to help them tune their strings. Here is the one we purchased.
http://www.musicarts.com/Lanikai-Clip-on-Ukulele-Electronic-Tuner-H71317-i1789759.mac 

JFK 5th Grade HW!

Practice 5x a week for 10 minutes

Please make sure you practice the A section of Quest of the Three Kings this week and be ready to play it for me next Friday! Here's a video for when you're ready!

*Reminder, extra copies of music are always left on my counter. It is your responsibility to grab another copy if you lose yours or are absent.