Latest News


  • FASCINATING RHYTHM
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  •  Date Posted: Thu, 7 Mar 2024
    Sally Baker has aked us to let you know that:
    The pluckers group at Carrum is learning how to read musical notes and how they indicate rhythm.
    Hopefully this YouTube video, will help you to understand the whys and wherefors of rhythm too:

     
     
  • MOORABBIN MUSIC & ARTS COMMUNITY CONCERT
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  •  Date Posted: Wed, 28 Feb 2024
    On Sunday 25 February, the Old Spice Girls ( Mandy, Beni, Fran, Veronica plus  Brad on drums and vocals) represented Longbeach Ukes in a fabulous performance at the Moorabbin Music + Arts Community Concert.

    They certainly did us proud.   We had a cheer squad of about ten of our members who came along to support them.   They were greeted with much enthusiasm by an appreciative audience.   There was some dancing in the aisles.

    Brad recorded the 30 minute performance.   If you couldn’t make it along in person, here is that recording for your delight and enjoyment.

    The link to view the performance is :  
    https://youtu.be/z2lyr-vwPjU?si=Klnj5EZ_g9vbNtuA 

    Or click on the video below : 

     
  • SALLY CARTER'S MUSIC WORKSHOP
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  •  Date Posted: Wed, 28 Feb 2024
    SALLY CARTER'S MUSIC WORKSHOP

    Sally Carter led us in a wonderful workshop on ‘Timing and Counting in’ at Carrum Activity Hub on Tuesday 27th February.
    60 members participated in getting the timing right for a number of well known songs. We are now all experienced in getting started with correct counting and maintaining a steady tempo throughout!
    Many thanks to Brad for the photos and to Sally for her excellent work shop!


    Sally Carter leading LUKES Workshop

    Sally Carter Workshop at LUKES Carrum

    Sally Carter Workshop at LUKES Carrum
    Group Shot at Sally Carter Workshop Carrum

  • MOSAIC COMMUNITY CHOIR
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  •  Date Posted: Thu, 14 Sep 2023

    JOURNEY THROUGH SPACE & TIME with the MOSAIC COMMUNITY CHOIR

    A nimber of our club members are performing with the Mosaaic Choir this coming Saturday.
    Venue: Longbeach RSL at 4 Thames Promenade, Chelsea
    Date: Saturday 16th September at 2pm.
    Cost: $10
    Purchase Tickets: trybooking.com/CKJGN

    Mosaic Community Choir Journey Through Space & Time

    Attachment:
  • WHAT IS A BRIDGE?
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  •  Date Posted: Tue, 29 Aug 2023

    Recently the question was asked by one of our members - What is a bridge?
    Peter McDonald found the great YouTube video that simply explains it. 

    we hope it gives you all more insight into the structure of many of the songs we play at LUKES. 

    YouTube Video URL:
  • Valla Beach Ukulele Camp
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  •  Date Posted: Mon, 17 Jul 2023
    Valla Beach Ukulele Camp

    It's ON & Shirley Biggs wanted everyone at LUKES to know about it!!!!!

    Save the dates 13-15 October,2023

     

    Featuring the exquisite playing of our international guest:

    • Samantha Muir UK supported by
    • The Australian Ukulele Orchestra Sydney+Central Coast
    • Blue Gum Blossom Jazz Coffs Coast, Manildra, Brisbane, Nowra
    • Chris Waite South Australia
    • Green Fieldz Melbourne
    • Jack n Jel, Mac n Wal Newcastle
    • Jackie Anifandis Launceston TAS
    • Mama Juju and the Jam Tarts Brisbane
    • Snez and Stewart Valla​
    • The Wild Women of Anywhere Beach Valla Beach​

    ​It's a place where the family can have a great time. Great gigs, fun workshops and super learning experiences.


    VENUE: Valla Beach Holiday Park

    1 Regatta Drive
    Valla Beach NSW 2448​
  • GREAT UKULELE CHORD PROGRESSIONS
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  •  Date Posted: Sat, 1 Jul 2023
    GREAT UKULELE CHORD PROGRESSIONS
    Peter McDonald introduced the Ukulele Chord Progression to the participants in his ukelele class at Bayside U3A and was talking about it the other night over dinner at Mentone with other members of LUKES.

    People showed interest so here it is as general info for members.

    It’s a great little site to use to extend chord knowledge through practice. Fingering is clearly marked.

    Here it is:  https://ukulelego.com/ukulele-chord-progressions/#c-g-am-f

    Best wishes and KEEP STRUMMING

    Peter
     
  • VALE PAMELA KEEBLE
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  •  Date Posted: Thu, 15 Jun 2023
    Dear members of LUKES

    It is with deep sadness that I write to let you know that our Club Secretary, Pam Keeble, passed away on Sunday 11th June.

    Pam had been unwell for a few weeks and tests revealed that she had an aggressive form of cancer. She died peacefully last Sunday at the Cabrini Hospital surrounded by her loving family.

    At this time, our sincere condolences and thoughts are with her husband Peter McDonald and sister-in-law Rosie Johnston (our Club President), along with her children Tim & Ben and their families, as they come to terms with their loss.

    A celebration of Pamela’s life will be held next Thursday afternoon.

    Venue: WD Rose Funerals, cnr Nepean Highway and Marriage Road, Brighton

    Time: 2.00pm Thursday 22 June

     Please note:
    • In accordance with Pam’s wishes, a small private gathering  will be held after the celebration at another venue
    • Out of respect, the committee has decided that there will not be a session of LUKES that day (Thursday 22 June) at the Mentone RSL

    Yours sincerely,

    Alison
     
  • Sally Carter Song Arranging Sessions and Biersal Brewery Concert
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  •  Date Posted: Fri, 7 Apr 2023
    Sally Carter Song Arranging Sessions and Biersal Brewery Concert
    Sally Carter is running two song arranging sessions on Friday April 28th and Friday May 12th.
    These sessions will be held at the Biersal Brewery in Seaford and will be good for chord players, singers and anyone who wants to try out playing riffs from reading tablature. The main aim is to have lots of fun!
    The sessions lead towards a concert where the two songs we have practiced will be played along with Auld Alliance and Green Fieldz on the day.

    All details are on the attached flyers.
     
    Please email Sally to let her know if you are attending the song sessions. If you can’t make both days, that’s fine. As long as you can make one session.   
     sally.carter@bigpond.com

    The booking link for the concert is:
    https://www.trybooking.com/CHDMK
     
    Attachment:
  • SALLY CARTER ONLINE UKE TUTORIAL
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  •  Date Posted: Sat, 1 Apr 2023
    SALLY CARTER ONLINE UKE TUTORIAL
    ONLINE UKULELE WORKSHOP 
    Friday 28th April from 9-10am. 
    Are you not quite sure about the timing of the notes?
    Do you drop beats or lack confidence in counting in?
    Are you not sure why things sound a bit out of time when you play either by yourself or with others?
    If so, this online workshop is for you. Check out the details in the poster below. The Trybooking link is:
    https://www.trybooking.com/CHCQT 

    https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=687577326706696&id=100063633035410&sfnsn=mo&mibextid=6aamW6 

    Get a head start with one of the headline acts at the Hills Ukulele Festival (HUF) on Friday 28th April online.
    Sally is an amazing musician and an awesome teacher.
    That is why she is a headline act at HUF on the 20th of May.
  • AUSTRALIAN UKULELE TEACHERS & LEADERS ASSOCIATION MASTERCLASSES
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  •  Date Posted: Thu, 2 Mar 2023
    AUSTRALIAN UKULELE TEACHERS & LEADERS ASSOCIATION MASTERCLASSES

    Here’s a  special opportunity to improve your playing skills,

    Three great workshops by very experienced Ukulele Player/Teachers.
    These are being run by AUTLA (Australian Ukulele Teachers and Leaders Assn) prior to the Melbourne Ukulele Festival (MUF) on Friday March 17th in Northcote.
    Go to www.muf.org.au to book your tix and check out the Bios of the presenters.
     
    Attachment:
  • Music Festivals News - 2023
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  •  Date Posted: Sun, 19 Feb 2023
    Music Festivals News - 2023
    Our Secretary Pam has compiled a list of Music Festivals and other Ukulele Events that members might be interested in during 2023.
    Open the attachment to find out more and please let her know of any others that you believe members may be interested in.
    Email details to:  info@longbeachukes.com.au
     
    Attachment:
  • MELBOURNE UKULELE FESTIVAL
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  •  Date Posted: Wed, 1 Feb 2023
    MELBOURNE UKULELE FESTIVAL
    The 2023 Melbourne Ukulele Festival (MUF) will be staged on the 17 - 19th March in all your favourite venues around High Street Northcote.
    Mark it in your calendar so you don't miss a trick!
    The rabbit is well and truly out of the hat and the organisers are excited to share with you the mysterious and magical Festival that they have planned for this March.
    The 2023 Festival will feature several enchanting headline acts, two big concerts, workshops and performances across multiple venues over the weekend.
    Watch out for details of headliners, artists, venues, workshops and program in the coming weeks.
    For those on Facebook the link is:
    https://www.facebook.com/MelbourneUkuleleFestival 
    Alternatively ask Carolyn Coxhead for further details. She asked me to send this article out to all our members.
  • MENTONE RSL PROPOSED SESSIONS AUG - DEC 2022
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  •  Date Posted: Thu, 22 Sep 2022
    MENTONE RSL PROPOSED SESSIONS AUG - DEC 2022
    Brad is keen for all members who attend LUKES Thursday afternoons at Mentone RSL, to have an overview of the proposed sessions until the end of the year.
    See the attached pdf for the printable version of the proposed outline:


    AUGUST 11              MEMORIES ARE MADE OF THIS 1
    AUGUST 18              MEMORIES ARE MADE OF THIS 2
    AUGUST 25              MEMORIES ARE MADE OF THIS 3

    SEPTEMBER 1       CARRUM OPEN MIC- NO MENTONE
    SEPTEMBER 8       KALISTA BINGO AT MORDY HQ
    SEPTEMBER 15     OPEN MIC PREP FOR MENTONE
    SEPTEMBER 22     OPEN MIC AT MENTONE RSL
    SEPTEMBER 29     ROCK AROUND MENTONE WITH MICHAEL RYAN

    OCTOBER 6             SINGING ON THE DANCE FLOOR (BLUES SHUFFLES)
    OCTOBER 13          MENTONE BLUES - FEST WITH PAUL & ROSIE
    OCTOBER 20          LES FOX IN THE PINK
    OCTOBER 27          PRAISE THE MUSIC - BLUEGRASS HARMONIES

    NOVEMBER 3          RUDY JUDY’S MENTONE CHUCKLE-HUT
    NOVEMBER 10       WE’LL MEET AGAIN- REMEMBRANCE DAY
    NOVEMBER 17       SINGING ON THE DANCE FLOOR
    NOVEMBER 24        LIKE A VERSION - TAKE A SONG, FLIP THE GENRE

    DECEMBER 1          GREATEST HITS - PICK YOUR FAVOURITES-EVERYONE SINGS!
    DECEMBER 8          DECK THE UKES - XMAS PREP
    DECEMBER 15         XMAS PARTY

     
    Attachment:
  • BUF - BOROONDARA UKULELE FESTIVAL
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  •  Date Posted: Mon, 29 Aug 2022
    BUF - BOROONDARA UKULELE FESTIVAL

    Fran Paddington thought you might be interested in the following event:

    The Boroondara Ukulele Festival will be held on Sunday 18 September 2022, at the Ashburton Community Centre
    (160 High Street, Ashburton) and online!
    9am - 6pm
    Tickets $15 - $50


    There will be a variety of workshops, community groups and presenters’ concerts, onsite displays and a music store (thanks Pat’s Music), the BUF raffle, and more, including Community Music Vic’s famous Ukeoke.

    Learn new uke techniques, get artistic, buy a uke (or seriously covet one!), 
    Play along with uke enthusiasts and have a uke-ing good time! 
    There's something for everyone, from absolute beginners (some ukes available to use on the day) to anyone looking to take their playing to the next level (yes, even jazz!).

    For the full program and to secure your tickets visit the BUF 2022 website!


    ►  https://cmvic.org.au/whats-on/boroondara-uke-festival

    ►  https://events.humanitix.com/buf-2022

  • JEWEL BY THE SEA
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  •  Date Posted: Sun, 21 Aug 2022
    JEWEL BY THE SEA
    Two of our members: Colin Prossor and Barbara Mendleson are performing in the "JEWEL OF THE SEA" at Black Rock House, Ebden Avenue Black Rock from 1st - 17th September, 2022, at 8pm.

    This is a creative portrayal of Charles Ebden's life during the planning, building and life at Black Rock House from 1854 - 1861.

    It's presented in an intimate cabaret style in Tamar's Tea Rooms.

    All details are outlined on the flyer attached including bookings.

    Why not support Colin and Barb in their performances. Would you like to form a LUKES table??
    Talk amongst yourselves and work out a date and let Carolyn know - we can pass the word on to others.




     
    Attachment:
  • LATE, LATE AT NIGHT
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  •  Date Posted: Sun, 29 May 2022
    LATE, LATE AT NIGHT
    Paul Wadeson & Carolyn Coxhead thought our members might be interested in this event.

     

    ON NEXT SATURDAY 4th JUNE, 8pm


    at the MEMO MUSIC HALL

    88 Acland Street St, entrance via Albert Street, St Kilda

    A two act, musical play written by award-winning Australian playwright, Kieran Carroll and performed by acclaimed Sydney singer-actor, Jackson Carroll, Late, Late At Night is a new stage adaptation based on Rick Springfield’s best-selling autobiography.

    https://www.memomusichall.com.au/memo-gig/rick-springfield-late-late-at-night-the-play/

    Self-penned, the memoir is written (except for the opening chapter) in chronological form from the 1950s through to 2010. The work traces Springfield’s Australian and British childhood, his early music days in Australia, his rollercoaster ride in 1970s America and the huge pop and acting successes of the 1980s. This is followed by his fall from public view, his mental health demise, and finally, the resurrection of Rick Springfield as an artist in the 21st century.

    The aim of this biographical and musical stage adaptation – much like the result of the autobiography – is to go far beyond Rick’s popular pop image or what he is best remembered for on the 1980s pop charts. This stage adaptation captures the heart and essence of Springfield’s major concerns and musings: depression, God, no God, his parents, self-motivation, a long sustaining career, love versus sex, music versus acting, his wife and sons, the way America shaped him and what he left behind in Australia as he built his career to lead the seemingly glamorous and not-so-glamorous expatriate life.

    Late, Late At Night is a vast one-man work moving between the text and the songs throughout. It is a tumultuous and exhilarating journey of an Australian-American songwriter whose 17 top 40 hits in America with sales of 25 million albums worldwide make him one of Australia’s most successful musical exports of all time.

    Late, Late At Night is an epic journey of a suburban boy whose journey to fame and fortune came with enormous personal costs.

    With the permission of and based on the best-selling autobiography Late, Late At Night by Rick Springfield.

  • HUF - HILLS UKULELE FESTIVAL
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  •  Date Posted: Sun, 8 May 2022
    HUF - HILLS UKULELE FESTIVAL
    It's not too late to sign up to join in a full day of ukulele workshops and performances on Saturday May 14th at Emerald Primary School.
    Cost $60 for the whole day. 
    On Sunday May 15th you can attend for free and enjoy performances on four stages, including your crazy Lukes mates who are performing at 12noon. 
    Go to the website for more details and tickets. 
    ⇒www.ukulelefestival.com.au
    Attachment:
  • UKED! THE MUSICAL - CRESWICK June 24-25, 2022
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  •  Date Posted: Thu, 28 Apr 2022
    Cheryl Gardner thought this is an article that many of you would find interesting & perhaps interesting enough to pursue.

    Jane Carafell's Hit Show "Uked!" - the first play along ukulele musical will be taking place at the Creswick Courthouse Theatre on 24th and 25th June, 2022.
    Jane, the writer and producer says it's a fun, uplifting story, touching on themes of ageing and isolation, and which celebrates the power of the humble ukulele to connect communities.
    Bring your uke and sing and play along with Karla, the heroine of the story, as part of the audience or up on stage as one of her fellow ukulele club members.
    All details are contained in the article but it certainly looks like a wonderful night of interactive entertainment PLUS it's for ukulele enthusiasts.
    Attachment:
  • LUKES MEMBERS' SKILLS QUESTIONAIRE
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  •  Date Posted: Tue, 15 Mar 2022
    Please fill out the questionaire attached and return it to info@longbeachukes.com.au ASAP

    Open the Read more .......  link below to find the attachment as a Word Document.
    Attachment:
  • THE GIRGARRE MOOSIC MUSTER
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  •  Date Posted: Sat, 11 Dec 2021
    THE GIRGARRE MOOSIC MUSTER

    The Girgarre Moosic Muster is on again from 5th - 9th January 2022.
    Girgarre was one of 6 rural towns in Victoria to be selected for a Regional Arts Victoria Transformation / Development Grant with  help from the art and music world. It has a strong community group, who have been through some tough times but who welcome all warmly to this and other festivals held locally throughout the year. 
    The Moosic Festival begins Wednesdaynight, 5th January with a bush dance and any musicians are welcome on stage to join the bands playing .........  dinner this evening may be arranged prior to the night but please check out the website at: https://www.girgarre.com.au/music-muster - also visit FaceBook and join the event to get the latest updates.

    Costs can be:

    • $90 - includes: 2 meals and a Sunday brekkie plus for for a pass and to camp at Girgarre
    • $60 - for entry pass but staying at Kyabram or similar spots a short 11 km away.

    There is an Arts Trail, so check all the options out on-line
    Looking forward to seeing you there,
    Shirley Biggs

  • PLAY MUSIC ON THE PORCH DAY
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  •  Date Posted: Sun, 29 Aug 2021
    PLAY MUSIC ON THE PORCH DAY

    In 2020, Mandy Cooper introduced us to Play Music on the Porch Day.
    This event is held on the last Saturday of August. and is an International Day of music which began with a simple idea back in 2013. The idea is that music is powerful and universal and goes beyond words. When you pick up an instrument and start to play the world disappears and you get lost in the sounds.  

    The idea is to just  go outside and play music - share our talents, our passions, and our music. Together let us show the world the power that music holds to transcend the most difficult barriers.

    A number of us from LUKES did just that on Saturday 28th August, 2021.. Please enjoy the photographs sent in so far.

    ==> View the Photos of 2021 Play Music On the Porch Day
     

    If you have photographs that haven't been include please email them to Alison D.

  • USB MICROPHONE
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  •  Date Posted: Thu, 26 Aug 2021
    USB MICROPHONE
    Many members asked us today about the microphones that some of the members are using along with their laptops or computers.
    By adding a USB microphone to your computer, you will notice a great difference in the quality of sound that you transmit by way of ZOOM. THe USB dynamic microphones are designed for Streaming and Podcasting or playing and singing as we do at LUKES. The main advantage of a USB mic is that there is no competition between the singing and intrumental music. They are both transmitted in equal amounts rather than the loudest winning out. or the voice.
    Some of us have purchased from OfficeWorks an Audio-Technica USB Microphone.
    Ours is the ATR2100x-USB. It is listed as a Handheld Dynamic Microphone but comes with a stand for stting up on a desk. We bought it early last year for about $150 and i notice that the same one is listed currently for $149.
    Other types are also for sale these include the Blue Snoball iCE Versatile USB mic for $68,  Samson Metori USB Studio Microphone for $89. Have a look and read the reviews on line and see what you think.
    Just google OfficeWorks - USB Microphones. and a full range will appear.

    You can order on line and do a click and collect or pay for delivery.

    They are simple to use but there are a few tricks to be aware of:
    • When you plug in the USB microphone, you need to check that it is turned on (on ours the blue light appears when it is plugged in but you also have to turn the switch to ON.
    • In ZOOM click on the arrow immediately to the right of the Mute button - this brings up a range of options. Make sure that you click on the USB Microphone.
    • On the same button is the option to test it - click on that - it will firstly ask you to test  your speakers and then it enables you to speak and test the microphone
    • In order to save bandwidth and increase intelligibility, Zoom does various tricks with sound. The main one is that it decides who is speaking at any given moment and concentrates on their sound and quietens down everyone else's. There's not much you can do about this apart from mute your mic when someone else is singing or playing.  It also prioritises speech over other sounds such as music, which it can regard as extraneous noise. However, there is a way to minimise some of the effects of this by using what they are pleased to call 'Original Sound', ie. the sound captured by your computer's microphone before Zoom get their mitts on it.
    • To make this work there are things both the meeting host and the participants have to do, but almost all of it needs to be done once only.. Once the host has enabled the "Show in-meeting option to Enable Original Sound from microphone"
    • The participant(s) also have a job to do. Again, you'll only ever need to this once but it has to be done while you're in a meeting, because the audio settings aren't available outside of meetings on some platforms. At the bottom left-hand corner of your screen you'll see a picture of a mic and an upward–pointing arrow ('^'). Click on the arrow and a menu of options will appear. The one you want is the bottom one: 'Audio Settings...'. Click on this and you'll get a screen full of settings. Clear the setting that says 'Automatically adjust microphone volume'.. If you need to you can set the mic level here yourself.
    • At the bottom right-hand corner you'll see a button labelled 'Advanced', which takes you to another screen full of settings. Towards the top of this you'll see 'Show in–meeting option to Enable Original Sound from microphone'. Make sure it has a tick next to it. You should also set both 'Suppress Persistent Background Noise' and 'Suppress Intermittent Background Noise' to Disable.
    • Having done that you can now close the settings screens and return to the main screen. You should never need to do that again.

    • Back at the main screen (if the meeting host has done their job) you'll now see a new box at the top left-hand corner saying 'Turn on Original Sound'. Click on this and it will change to 'Turn off Original Sound'. Once you've done that you're using original sound. You may need to do this last bit at the start of most Zoom meetings.

    If you purchase a USB microphone and would like to have a practise run, give Alison a call and we can set up a ZOOM meeting to make sure you're on the right track and that it works for you.. You can only test these by way of ZOOM we've found.

    NOTE: Original Sound - allows you to preserve the sound from your microphone without using ZOOM's echo cancellation and audio-enhancing features.

    Technical infromation thanks to https://www.soundonsound.com/techniques/how-make-zoom-work-music
    I hope this is helpful.
    Cheers
    Alison

  • MEMBER'S WAITING LIST
  •  
  •  Date Posted: Sat, 14 Aug 2021
    MEMBER'S WAITING LIST
    We are unable to invite new members or visitors to our meetings at this time because of Covid restrictions.

    Please contact info@longbeachukes.com.au to put your name, phone number and email address on our waiting list.

    If you would like to join and observe one of our Zoom sessions please request the link from info@longbeachukes.com.au
  • LUKES VACCINATION STATUS
  •  
  •  Date Posted: Fri, 16 Jul 2021
    LUKES VACCINATION STATUS

    Dear LUKES members. 

    Keep up the good work!  From our limited sample survey last week as to the vaccination status of LUKES members, we can happily report that we are very responsible citizens.


    The situation last week was that one third of us had had a double dose, and two-thirds one dose, with plans to have the second.  We expect to see this change quickly as second doses become due after 12 weeks, and some of us are opting for an earlier second dose at between 8 and 12 weeks.

    If we needed reminding, our current lockdown is proving our actions in getting vaccinated to be a very wise choice.  Then again, we knew we were wise (comes with age, they say).  

    See you on Zoom in the short-term and hopefully soon in person.

    Jill Thompson

  • SINGER'S MASKS
  •  
  •  Date Posted: Wed, 7 Jul 2021
    SINGER'S MASKS
    It is looking like mask wearing may potentially be with us for a while when singing is involved.
    No pressure, but we have a contact who will make singers’ masks to order for $15 if anyone is interested.
    They are 3 layers with 2 of cotton and the inner one of sturdy nonwoven interfacing which follows recommended guidelines.
    One size fits all, with adjustable elastic to help with the fit. There is a wide colour choice available on the order form.


    If you wish to order one it is a 2 part process.
    1 – Pay for the mask  by bank transfer to the LUKES Account ( see details on the order form)
    2 – Fill in the order form and email to Cheryl G

    Both these things need to happen by Tuesday 13 July after which a bulk order will be placed.
    Turnaround to Cheryl from time of placement of order will be 5 – 10 days depending on the quantity ordered. They will then be brought to your nominated venue at next meeting.

    Alternatively, if interested,  there is a pattern attached in the next News Item (including how-to video) for a mask which is not technically a singers’ mask but is relatively user friendly for singing and fairly easy to sew.
     
    Attachment:
  • PATTERN FOR 3D MASK
  •  
  •  Date Posted: Wed, 7 Jul 2021
    PATTERN FOR 3D MASK

    There is a pattern attached (including how-to video) for a mask which is not technically a singers’ mask but is relatively user friendly for singing and fairly easy to sew.

    YouTube Video URL:
    Attachment:
  • LEGS GIG AT THE VIEW CLUB OF CHELSEA
  •  
  •  Date Posted: Sat, 8 May 2021
    LEGS GIG AT THE VIEW CLUB OF CHELSEA

    On Saturday 8th May, Fran, Veronica, Beni and Mandy, on behalf of LUKES Entertainment Group, provided entertainment for the Cheltenham/Dingley VIEW CLUB Luncheon. 

    VIEW members support the education of disadvantaged Australian children by raising much needed funds for The Smith Family. Through fundraising activities and social events in local communities, members raise money that goes directly to The Smith Family's learning and mentoring programs for disadvantaged students.

    The ladies at the luncheon enjoyed listening to the performance which included some old favourites and a couple of new songs as well.There was much toe tapping and singing along, and quite a few questions about the Lukes Club and playing ukulele in general. A lovely afternoon, enjoyed by all.


    LUKES LEGS perform at Chelsea View Club

    The Ladies: Beni McMaster, Mandy Cooper, Fran Paddington and Veronica Young  looked resplendent in their red and black and were well received by the guests at the luncheon with their lively perfomance.
  • HAPPY 89th BIRTHDAY TO LES WEST
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  •  Date Posted: Fri, 7 May 2021
    HAPPY 89th BIRTHDAY TO LES WEST
    What a fabulous celebration we had for our Club's Treasurer, Les West, on Thursday afternoon. Les has reached the fine age of 89 and is still incredibly active in our club both from a performance perspective, as well as the time he contributes to the club executive committee and the Club's finances. Les you are an inspiration and we all see you as 89 years young.
    Fran Paddington, made an amazing birthday cake, depicting some of Les' favourite historical experiences and the 40+ members at the Mentone RSL joined in an enthusisatic rendition of "Happy Birthday" in Les' honour.
    Happy Birthday Les!

    Happy Birthday Les

    Singing Happy Birthday to Les West

    Another view of Les' cake
  • LORDS AND LADIES OF THE DANCE
  •  
  •  Date Posted: Mon, 3 May 2021
    LORDS AND LADIES OF THE DANCE
    Our celebration of International Dance Day on April 29th at the Mentone RSL certainly exceded expectations. Every one got in to the spirit of the night as was evidenced by the outfits worn, the enthusiastic way the music was played and time many spent on the dance floor. We all managed to play some very difficult songs along with the easier ones in the program.
    We were deligthed that the RSL allowed us to keep the dance floor free for people to get up and in to the groove of the songs played and it was ideal for the cha-cha, waltzes, rock and roll, YMCA and of course Beni's line dance workshop along to Achy Breaky Heart.  
    Thank you to everyone for your participation on the night - we truly had a rollicking good time.

    To see the other photographs go to :https://www.longbeachukes.com.au/dbpage.php?pg=album&Category=22

  • MENTONE STATION OFFICIAL OPENING
  •  
  •  Date Posted: Mon, 3 May 2021
    MENTONE STATION OFFICIAL OPENING

    Sixteen members of the LUKES Entertainment Group (LEGS) enjoyed wonderful 25 degree weather as we entertained the crowds on the lawn adjacent to the new Mentone Railway Station at its official opening on Saturday 1st May from 11am till 2pm.
    We were booked by the LXRP - Level Crossing Removal Project for a 3 hour gig.. There were breaks as we watched an official welcome to country smoking ceremony and later the Mayor of Kingston opening the Station and launching a book on the historyof the Mentone Railway Station.

    Mandy Cooper the LEGS Gig Co-ordinator devised a lively program - including a variety of train songs in conjunction with some old favourites. Along with our group of ukulele players the ensemble included a mandolin, a bass, a washboard, a guitar and numerous percussion items and of course a number of train whistles to add to the overall effect.

  • PAT'S MUSIC STORE MAY SALE
  •  
  •  Date Posted: Mon, 3 May 2021
    PAT'S MUSIC STORE MAY SALE
    Pat's Music Store located at 940-944 Centre Road, Oakleigh South has generously sponsored our club and is our preferred supplier for 2021.
    They are celebrating their 31st Birthday with a special sale this year.
    Let them know you're a member of LUKES and they'll give you a discount at any time.
    Pats have a great range of Ukuleles as well as strings, accessories, percussion instruments and song books - along with their other musical instruments. So if you're thinking of upgrading or need to get your uke serviced with new strings, go and visit them.
    To find out more about their BIRTHDAY SALE go to the following link:
    https://www.patsmusic.com.au/birthday-sale/

    Pats Music Store
  • R.I.P. Dave Paddington our Bass Man
  •  
  •  Date Posted: Sat, 20 Mar 2021
    R.I.P. Dave Paddington our Bass Man
    Our friend and longtime Club Member David Paddington passed away peacefully on Sunday morning, 28th February, 2021. 
    Dave has known he was unwell since before Christmas and he and Fran were hoping for a miracle. Sadly this wasn't possible. 
    We will always think of Dave when we play "These Boots Are Made For Walking". That was one of his bass favorites and it was such fun to follow him on that riff. 
    We like to imagine Dave is "Walkin'" on to his new uke group. 
    We will wrap Fran in our music and let it gradually work its healing magic. Fran described Dave as the ying to her yang.
    Dave was big brother to Mick and Adrian and loving father of Steven, Kevin and Gary. 

    There is a private funeral and at Dave's request, Fran will host a party to celebrate his life.
    Rest In Peace Dave.
  • LUKES COVID SAFE PLAN 2021- V3
  •  
  •  Date Posted: Mon, 1 Feb 2021
    LUKES COVID SAFE PLAN 2021- V3
    In order to satisfy both the State Government COVID Safety Regulations and those of the Kingston City Council, the LUKES Executive has devised a COVID SAFE PLAN..
    This has been attached.
    The COVID situation, as we've seen around the world as well as close to home is quite fluid and unpredictable and we at LUKES take the health and welfare of our members seriously.
    Please take the time to read the LUKES COVID SAFE PLAN and ensure that you implement each point made in the plan.
    Version 2 was posted on 1st February, It will be updated as new regulations come to our attention.
    Attachment:
  • HALL MONITOR JOBS FOR CARRUM HUB & MEMBER RESPONSIBILITIES
  •  
  •  Date Posted: Sat, 30 Jan 2021
    Hall Monitor Responsibilities
    For meetings held on Tuesday evenings at the Carrum Activity Hub we will need a Hall Monitor to prepare the hall and ensure that it is COVID SAFE and ready for members.
    All of the tasks are set out in the document attached.
    If you are the Hall Monitor on a Tuesday night, please print off the document, date it and then run through the checklist.of tasks to be done both before and after the meeting.

    Member’s Responsibilities
    • Bring your own instrument, music stand and music.  (Sharing is only possible by people living in same house)
    • Bring your own drink and nibbles if needed. The kitchen will be closed.
    • Do not enter the hall before 6.30pm
    • Wear your mask until seated
    • Do your QR code before entering foyer.
    • One member at a time in the foyer
    • Do not move your chair from its position.
    • Remain seated while the session is in progress
    • If not singing wear your mask
    • There will be no microphones in use for the time being. We will review this as soon as it is allowable.
    • If you need an amp please bring your own. 
    Updates will be made as the situation changes
    Attachment:
  • SONGS SUNG BLUE with The Ubiquitous Uke - Mr Fox
  •  
  •  Date Posted: Thu, 5 Mar 2020
    SONGS SUNG BLUE with The Ubiquitous Uke - Mr Fox

    Les Fox who always leaves us with a sense of anticipation about what badge will be accompanying our chocolate, did the same as he led us in his first LUKES Session "Songs Sung Blue" on Tuesday 3rd March:

    The majority of members were dressed in Blue and sang an eclectic choice of Blue Songs or songs featuring Blue. The singing was punctuated by the inevitable Blue Badges, Blue Decor, Blue Jokes (not too rude!) and Blue Prizes.

    The joy in the room was infectious and everyone left with a spring in their step, a Blue Gift and definitely not in a Blue mood at all. Well done to Les for a wonderful night - you've set the bar really high.

    ⇒ View the photographs of our Songs Sung Blue night.

  • 2020 MEMBERSHIP IS DUE NOW
  •  
  •  Date Posted: Sun, 23 Feb 2020
    2020 MEMBERSHIP IS DUE NOW

    ALL MEMBERS NOTE:

    If you are not a financial member by March 17th 2020, you will be removed from the Club Database and lose access to the club website members login area.
    Every new and 2019 members of LUKES are required to fill out the 2020 Registered Club Membership Application Form.
     

    ⇒ Download 2020 Registered Club Membership Application Form


    The form can be filled out, scanned and emailed to LUKES Membership Administrator: Veronica Young, or handed to the person on the door on Tuesday nights with $10 cash.

    Payment can be made by EFT into our bank:

    • Account Name: Longbeach Ukes Inc.
    • BSB: 633 000
    • Account Number: 164527905
    • Reference: Surname & Initial
    Attachment:
  • A Blast From the Past!
  •  
  •  Date Posted: Sat, 22 Feb 2020
    A Blast From the Past!

    Chelsea - Mordialloc - Mentone NEWS 22-11-2017

    Happy Song

    Judith Crocker is all smiles a the Melbourne Ukulele Kollection's (MUK) Bayside get together. The ukulele playing group began in Aspendale five years ago and is always happy to welcome new members.
    Read the accompanying article that was in the local paper - it gives a great outline of the history of  LUKES.
    Attachment:
  • LUKES MEMBERS NAME BADGES
  •  
  •  Date Posted: Sat, 15 Feb 2020
    LUKES MEMBERS NAME BADGES
    As a means of encouraging friendship, courtesy and inclusiveness at LUKES we encourage all members to wear a name badge at each LUKES meeting. Some people have placed their Membership Cards in a plastic sleeve and clip it on their tops, hats etc. others make their own but if you'd like one of our special LUKES name tags please put your name in the order book at the front desk.
    The badges cost $12 each.
  • Beginners Classes
  •  
  •  Date Posted: Sat, 15 Feb 2020
    Beginners Classes

    Beginners Classes will be run on Thursday nights, in two periods this year, each of six consecutive weeks.

    The first period of Beginners' Classes will begin on Thursday 20th February and run through until 26th March.
    The second period will begin on Thursday 23rd July and run through until 27th August.

    Dates: are listed on the website Calendar.
    Time: 7:00 - 8:00pm
    Venue: Carrum Activity Hub
    Contact to Enrol: secretary@longbeachukes.com.au
    Requirements:
    Classes are free for LUKES members. You can take up Membership of LUKES on the first Thursday night of the lessons.

    Ukuelele; Please do not buy a ukulele from ALDI or a really cheap one - from experience they do not hold their tune. Expect to pay upwards from $60 for an insturment which is not a toy. Consider a Tenor Ukulele if your fingers are stiffer and less dextrous as they have bigger fret boards than the smaller sized Soprano Ukuleles. Ukuleles range in size from Soprano (smallest) to Concert (mid size) up to Tenor (large size). Try out ukuleles from local music shops and see which one suits your fingers best - our Club's preferred supplier is Guitars Plus at 5 Melrose Street, Sandringham. We have a few ukuleles we can lend to our beginners until you are able to purchase your own, on both Tuesday and Thursday nights. 

    Resources: A Beginners Booklet will be provided and LUKES Main Songbooks can be purchased and are available at the lessons for $15 each. They are not necessary for the Beginners Classes but will give you material to work with going forwards at the Tuesday night LUKES Meetings and are a wonderful resource to practise from.

    LUKES has 3 Main Songbooks - 1, 2 and 3 and to make it easier for beginners, the degree of difficulty of each song is listed on the Index pages, beside each song.
     

    LUKES MEMBERS - Do you have a friend who has shown an interest in joining LUKES? - why not encourage friends or family members to come along to the Beginners' Classes to try it out and gain some confidence along the way.

  • Cheltenham Rail Crossing Removal Gig
  •  
  •  Date Posted: Tue, 19 Nov 2019
    Cheltenham Rail Crossing Removal Gig

    Street Performance Charman Road, Cheltenham November 15th 2019


    Follow the sucess of "Jessie's Girl" we were asked by Kingston Council to come and perform in the street, to entertain the public while the street was closed, in preparation for the removal of the railway crossing. I wasn't sure how many LUKES members would be keen to do this, but then to my surprise,we had a really good turnout.  I lost count after 25!
    We performed after an amazing band called Vados, who did some wonderful Russian folk type melodies, on violin accordian and double bass, that had some of us dancing. So we thought they be a tough act to follow.

    Everyone loves to sing a long with songs they know and we certainly managed that. We had quite a crowd gather and stay a while, to listen and join in. Everyone in in the group was smiling and jigging, which really engaged the audience. The songs were well performed by all the team with their solo parts, group and all in sections. There were beautiful harmonies and backing shoo-ups, for variety and interest. 

    Great show guys, you made me proud.

    Fran 
     

    ⇒ View the photogallery of all the Cheltenham Street Party

    Attachment:
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