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	<title>News</title>
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<item>
<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/hills-ukulele-festival-2026_117s98</link>
<title><![CDATA[Hills Ukulele Festival 2026]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[There&#39;ll be Music in the Hills of Victoria at the Hills Ukulele Festival. And we&#39;ll be there!
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[There&#39;ll be Music in the Hills of Victoria at the Hills Ukulele Festival! And we&#39;ll be there!

When: May 16-17.

Where: Emerald Primary School, Heroes Ave, Emerald, Victoria.

Stay tuned for details!

Learn more about the festival
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/hills-ukulele-festival-2026_117s98</guid>
<pubDate>13 Apr 2026 01:42:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<item>
<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/another-gig-on-the-horizon_117s99</link>
<title><![CDATA[Another gig on the horizon!]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[The UkeAlohas are once again out and about this Friday, sharing the Aloha Spirit with our &ldquo;Anthems of Inspiration&rdquo; Roadshow at the Box Hill Salvos CHATS group.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[The UkeAlohas are once again out and about this Friday, sharing the Aloha Spirit with our &ldquo;Anthems of Inspiration&rdquo; Roadshow at the Box Hill Salvos CHATS group.

It&rsquo;s always a privilege to bring music into the community&mdash;encouraging people to sing, clap, and connect through feel-good songs. Many of the performers are part of my wonderful community of students, which makes these events even more special.

CHATS is a fantastic social group that meets weekly, offering connection, activities, and entertainment for those aged 50+.

When: Friday, 10:00&ndash;11:30am

Where: Box Hill Salvos &ndash; Level 1

We are grateful for opportunities like this to share music, build confidence, and spread a little joy. 

If you&rsquo;d like to learn more about lessons or getting involved, feel free to reach out!

About Salvos Social Groups
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/another-gig-on-the-horizon_117s99</guid>
<pubDate>09 Apr 2026 02:12:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/melbourne-ukulele-festival-2026_117s100</link>
<title><![CDATA[Melbourne Ukulele Festival 2026]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Following our success at the recent Multicultural Festival, we&rsquo;re excited to be performing again at Australia&rsquo;s premier Ukulele event &mdash; the Melbourne Ukulele Festival (MUF). It&rsquo;s always a privilege to be part of something this special, and to help create opportunities for our group to shine.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[I recently read that 2025 has been described as a year of &ldquo;turmoil and hope.&rdquo; I choose to lean into the &quot;hope&quot; &mdash; and I&rsquo;m proud to help lead a devoted group of community musicians, the UkeAlohas, who feel exactly the same way.

Through a lot of behind-the-scenes work, planning, and passion, I&rsquo;ve been fortunate to help bring our &ldquo;Anthems of Inspiration&rdquo; Roadshow to life &mdash; and this weekend, we&rsquo;re continuing that journey of sharing music, connection, and Aloha Spirit with the community.

Following our success at the recent Multicultural Festival, we&rsquo;re excited to be performing again at Australia&rsquo;s premier Ukulele event &mdash; the Melbourne Ukulele Festival (MUF). It&rsquo;s always a privilege to be part of something this special, and to help create opportunities for our group to shine.

We&rsquo;d love your support if you can make it along!

 This Sunday 29 March

 1:45 &ndash; 2:15pm

 KOS Klub
1 Bastings Street, Northcote
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/melbourne-ukulele-festival-2026_117s100</guid>
<pubDate>26 Mar 2026 02:22:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/multicultural-festival-gig-timetable_117s107</link>
<title><![CDATA[Multicultural Festival Gig Timetable]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Here&#39;s the confirmed final program for our Multicultural Festival Gig. Our combined group of players - The UkeAlohas - are on at approximately 11.45.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[Here&#39;s the confirmed final program for our Multicultural Festival Gig. Our combined group of players - The UkeAlohas - are on at approximately 11.45.

Address: 47 Kitchener St, Box Hill South

10:00 am

Opening Ceremony

10:15am-12:00pm

Cultural Performances:


	Lion Dance
	Tai Chi
	Taiko Japanese Drumming
	Indian Dance
	Ukulele
	Family Costume Parade


12:00pm-1:00pm

Multicultural Food Sharing

1:00pm-3:00pm

Cultural Experience and Workshops:


	Tea Ceremony
	Paper Cutting and Origami
	Face Painting
	Henna Hand Painting


1:00pm-3:00pm

Interactive Games:


	Ring Toss Challenge
	Pass the Parcel with a Twist
	Cooperative Parachute Games

]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/multicultural-festival-gig-timetable_117s107</guid>
<pubDate>14 Mar 2026 04:07:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/multicultural-family-fun-day_117s106</link>
<title><![CDATA[Multicultural Family Fun Day]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[2 more sleeps to go! Our intrepid and generous ukulele group The UkeAlohas are playing at this wonderful, free, multicultural family fun day.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[2 more sleeps to go! Our intrepid and generous ukulele group The UkeAlohas are playing at this wonderful, free, multicultural family fun day.

We play at 11.45. Come and support this great cause if you can!

Delivered by Box Hill South Neighbourhood House.
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/multicultural-family-fun-day_117s106</guid>
<pubDate>13 Mar 2026 04:05:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/ukealohas-community-gigs-ndash-sharing-the-aloha-spirit-through-music_117s105</link>
<title><![CDATA[UkeAlohas Community Gigs &ndash; Sharing the Aloha Spirit Through Music]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Our incredible GuitarStart music students are once again sharing their time, talent &amp; hearts with the community. In true &quot;Aloha spirit&quot;, they give freely of themselves to spread connection, kindness &amp; musical joy &mdash; something especially meaningful in these challenging times.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[Our incredible GuitarStart music students are once again sharing their time, talent &amp; hearts with the community. In true &quot;Aloha spirit&quot;, they give freely of themselves to spread connection, kindness &amp; musical joy &mdash; something especially meaningful in these challenging times.

We&rsquo;re so proud that our players have recently been invited to perform at several upcoming community events:

 Sun, March 15 &ndash; Box Hill South Neighbourhood House Multicultural Day

 Sun, March 29 &ndash; Melbourne Ukulele Festival

 Fri, April 10 &ndash; Salvos Box Hill CHATS Group

The theme for these performances will be &ldquo;Anthems of Inspiration&rdquo;&mdash; uplifting songs that celebrate hope, unity &amp; resilience.

The Box Hill South Multicultural Day will have a vibrant multicultural flavour, offering a wonderful opportunity not only to celebrate diversity in our community, but also for our players to continue refining their skills &amp; festival repertoire.

We are so grateful for these opportunities to bring smiles, warmth &amp; sunshine wherever we play. 

More details to come &mdash; stay tuned!
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/ukealohas-community-gigs-ndash-sharing-the-aloha-spirit-through-music_117s105</guid>
<pubDate>04 Mar 2026 04:03:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/music-with-meaning-our-tribute-to-jimmy-cliff-quoti-can-see-clearly-nowquot_117s104</link>
<title><![CDATA[Music with Meaning: Our Tribute to Jimmy Cliff &quot;I Can See Clearly Now&quot;]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Thank you, Jimmy Cliff, for the music and the inspiration. And congratulations to my students for bringing this tribute to life with such heart, skill, and aloha spirit.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[During the long months of pandemic lockdowns and Zoom lessons (yes, those days!), I made a conscious decision to focus on uplifting, positive music &mdash; songs that could lift spirits, build connection, and keep a sense of optimism and community alive through challenging times.

One of those songs was &ldquo;I Can See Clearly Now&rdquo; by the legendary Jimmy Cliff. Its hopeful message made it a perfect choice for group learning and collaboration, and it became the foundation for this special music video project.

Watch the video on Facebook

This video showcases not only a heartfelt tribute to Jimmy Cliff &mdash; the award-winning Jamaican musician who helped bring reggae music to the world &mdash; but also the dedication, musicianship, and teamwork of my wonderful students. Jimmy Cliff sadly passed away recently, and this project stands as a celebration of his enduring legacy and influence.

I&rsquo;m incredibly proud of what we achieved together: from musical growth and ensemble skills to the commitment required to complete a project of this scale. It&rsquo;s a great example of what can happen when learning is personalised, community-focused, and driven by joy.

Thank you, Jimmy Cliff, for the music and the inspiration. And congratulations to my students for bringing this tribute to life with such heart, skill, and aloha spirit. 
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/music-with-meaning-our-tribute-to-jimmy-cliff-quoti-can-see-clearly-nowquot_117s104</guid>
<pubDate>24 Dec 2025 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<item>
<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/dorrigo-folk-bluegrass-festival_117s103</link>
<title><![CDATA[Dorrigo Folk &amp; Bluegrass Festival]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[What a great weekend! I spent last weekend immersed in a folk and bluegrass festival &mdash; performing, learning, listening, and connecting with some truly wonderful people.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[What I learned from my Accountant; and what the Dorrigo Folk &amp; Bluegrass Festival taught me about teamwork, listening, and leadership:

What a great weekend! I spent last weekend immersed in a folk and bluegrass festival &mdash; performing, learning, listening, and connecting with some truly wonderful people.

I had the chance to play with a professional bluegrass band in a workshop, explore the craft of playing in a duo, learn how to sing in harmony, and soak up countless performances that reminded me why I love music education so much.

What struck me most, though, is how much these experiences echo life beyond music:


	Listening closely and responding to others creates real connection.
	Harmony comes from balancing difference and unity.
	Growth happens when we keep learning and sharing ideas.


I came home feeling recharged, grateful, and full of ideas &mdash; both for my music and for how we work, teach, and collaborate more broadly.

Huge thanks to everyone I met and played with&hellip; and to my diligent and honest accountant for assuring me that learning with an instrument in hand can indeed count as professional development! 
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/dorrigo-folk-bluegrass-festival_117s103</guid>
<pubDate>04 Nov 2025 03:57:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/ukulele-jamboree-at-federation-square_117s102</link>
<title><![CDATA[Ukulele Jamboree at Federation Square]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Proud teacher moment!
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[Proud teacher moment! 

Some of my wonderful GuitarStart students enthusiastically played at last week&rsquo;s Ukulele Jamboree at Federation Square. It was a joy to see them performing with confidence, sharing their music, and soaking up the fun and community spirit.

Well done players!
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/ukulele-jamboree-at-federation-square_117s102</guid>
<pubDate>15 Oct 2025 03:54:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<item>
<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/notice-from-musicians-australia_117s101</link>
<title><![CDATA[Notice from Musicians Australia]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[The notices say it all! Please read, consider, and endorse this claim if you wish to support the ongoing professional development and recognition of Music Educators in Australia.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[The notices say it all! Please read, consider, and endorse this claim if you wish to support the ongoing professional development and recognition of Music Educators in Australia.

Notice from Musicians Australia

&ldquo;Music educators, through our union MEAA, are demanding greater recognition from government, policymakers, educational institutions and employers.

We&#39;re working alongside other music education organisations to find solutions that benefit students, musicians and their employers, to lift the sector as a whole.

We Want


	Equitable pay structures, rates and minimum engagement periods
	Paid professional development opportunities
	Superannuation
	Greater job security for music educators, particularly workers who are casual employees, on fixed-term contracts or independent contractors
	Government investment into comprehensive primary, high school and community based music education, to ensure equitable access.


ENDORSE OUR CLAIM NOW  https://meaa.io/4ofJGKU&rdquo;
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/notice-from-musicians-australia_117s101</guid>
<pubDate>14 Oct 2025 03:19:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/we39re-launching-new-ukulele-sessions-at-box-hill-south-neighbourhood-house_117s97</link>
<title><![CDATA[We&#39;re launching new Ukulele sessions at Box Hill South Neighbourhood House]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[New Wednesday Night Ukulele Groups at Box Hill South Neighbourhood House starting next term.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[ 7:30pm - 8:15pm &ndash; Beginners
 8:15pm - 9:00pm &ndash; Experienced players

These sessions were created in response to community demand for mid-week options &ndash; and we&#39;re excited to bring them to life in such a supportive environment.

 Easy access and plenty of unrestricted + off-street parking
 Friendly, welcoming staff &ndash; a genuinely community-focused venue
 Limited spots &ndash; early booking recommended before Term break

 Venue details &amp; contact: https://www.bhsnh.org.au/copy-of-contact-us

Looking forward to seeing new faces and familiar ones alike!
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/we39re-launching-new-ukulele-sessions-at-box-hill-south-neighbourhood-house_117s97</guid>
<pubDate>15 Sep 2025 01:23:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/free-trial-ukulele-lesson-seniors-week-on-16-october_117s96</link>
<title><![CDATA[Free trial Ukulele lesson Seniors Week on 16 October]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[There are free Seniors Week lessons at The Avenue Neighborhood House 16th October &ndash; 1.30pm Advanced, 2.45pm Beginners, 4.00pm Intermediate.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[Free trial Ukulele lessons available (Beginners, Intermediate, or Advanced). There are free Seniors Week lessons at The Avenue Neighborhood House 16th October &ndash; 1.30pm Advanced, 2.45pm Beginners, 4.00pm Intermediate.

Fun fact - The Avenue offers a free trial Ukulele lesson at any time of the year; however Seniors Week is a good event to link in with.

Book in early to secure a spot!
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/free-trial-ukulele-lesson-seniors-week-on-16-october_117s96</guid>
<pubDate>03 Sep 2025 01:11:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/spreading-joy-ndash-one-strum-at-a-time_117s95</link>
<title><![CDATA[Spreading Joy &ndash; One Strum at a Time]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[The Avenue Neighborhood House newsletter highlights the efforts of our wonderful GuitarStart Music students and community supporters.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[Here&#39;s a screenshot from The Avenue Neighborhood House newsletter highlighting the efforts of our wonderful GuitarStart Music students and community supporters. Mahalo to all concerned!

Text in the newsletter reads:

Spreading Joy &ndash; One Strum at a Time

We&#39;d also love to give a big shout-out to our amazing Ukulele students, who have been rehearsing diligently and sharing their talents with the community by performing at least once a month! From the Surrey Hills Music Festival to the Melbourne Ukulele Festival, The Salvation Army, and The Hills Ukulele Festival &ndash; they&#39;ve been busy spreading the joy of music and the ukulele far and wide!

Thank you for also your help with collecting Musical Instrument donations and spreading the word for such a great cause with &quot;Grow the Music.&quot;
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/spreading-joy-ndash-one-strum-at-a-time_117s95</guid>
<pubDate>30 Jun 2025 00:50:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/a-big-thank-you-for-donations-to-the-grow-the-music-charity_117s94</link>
<title><![CDATA[A big thank you for donations to the Grow the Music Charity]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Thank you to our Ukulele players and the Neighborhood House communities for the donations of Musical Instruments to the &quot;Grow the Music&quot; charity.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[A big thank you to our Ukulele players and the Neighborhood House communities &ndash; for the donations of Musical Instruments to the &quot;Grow the Music&quot; charity.

Here&#39;s a photo of some of the musical instruments collected by our wonderful NH staff and Ukulele students at our Neighborhood Houses. The donations include Ukuleles, a Xylophone, keyboard, maracas, a tambourine and other music equipment. They were picked up a few days ago by one of the very appreciative &quot;Grow the Music&quot; volunteers. GTM has recently expanded their activities to provide support to refugee communities as well.
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/a-big-thank-you-for-donations-to-the-grow-the-music-charity_117s94</guid>
<pubDate>10 Jun 2025 00:47:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/low-g-string-or-high-g-string-ukulele-ndash-which-is-best_117s93</link>
<title><![CDATA[Low G string, or high G string Ukulele &ndash; which is best?]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Read what expert players say about Low-G vs. High-G tuning. For me, it changes depending on the music.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[For me, it changes depending on the music (high G for strumming, low G for fingerstyle and melody). It&#39;s best to have one Uke for low G, and another for high G. And another for that distinctive banjo sound, another for volume, another for electrification, another for portability, another because it was a gift, etc. etc...

Read the article by Steven Espaniola from the Spring 2025 Issue of Ukulele Magazine
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/low-g-string-or-high-g-string-ukulele-ndash-which-is-best_117s93</guid>
<pubDate>02 Jun 2025 00:35:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/we39re-playing-at-the-hills-ukulele-festival_117s92</link>
<title><![CDATA[We&#39;re playing at the Hills Ukulele Festival]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Sunday 18 May 3.45 - 4.15. A wonderful, family-friendly, and free event in the beautiful Dandenong Ranges. Come and support us if you can!
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[Following on from our recent successfully acclaimed &quot;Blues Brothers, Soul Sisters&quot; Tribute Show at the Melbourne Ukulele Festival; here are the details for our next Gig. We&#39;re playing at the Hills Ukulele Festival Sunday 18 May 3.45 - 4.15 at The Library Stage. A wonderful, family-friendly, and free event in the beautiful Dandenong Ranges (see the Lyrebird in the poster?). Come and support us if you can!
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/we39re-playing-at-the-hills-ukulele-festival_117s92</guid>
<pubDate>28 Apr 2025 02:42:00 GMT</pubDate>
<enclosure url='https://www.guitarstart.com.au/uploads/117/92/med-blog-hills-ukulele-festival.jpg' length='39074' type='image/jpeg'/>
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<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/grow-the-music-donation-drive_117s91</link>
<title><![CDATA[Grow the Music Donation Drive]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Along with the cooperation of local Neighborhood Houses, we are are collecting &amp; donating Musical instruments for &quot;Grow the Music&quot;.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[Our wonderful students are having another Donation Drive. Along with the cooperation of local Neighborhood Houses, we are are collecting &amp; donating Musical instruments for &quot;Grow the Music&quot;. GTM has been developing music communities in remote &amp; regional Australia since 2012.

Contact GTM direct if you have any spare musical instruments or equipment to donate.

Grow the Music Website
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/grow-the-music-donation-drive_117s91</guid>
<pubDate>15 Apr 2025 02:39:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/blues-brothers-soul-sisters-tribute-at-the-surrey-hills-music-festival_117s88</link>
<title><![CDATA[Blues Brothers, Soul Sisters tribute at the Surrey Hills Music Festival]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[The SHNUkers proudly present our &quot;Blues Brothers, Soul Sisters&quot; tribute at the Surrey Hills Music Festival Main Stage with a special guest appearance by the supremely talented, friend of the SHNUkers, Floyd Thursby!
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[The SHNUkers proudly present our &quot;Blues Brothers, Soul Sisters&quot; tribute at the Surrey Hills Music Festival Main Stage with a special guest appearance by the supremely talented, friend of the SHNUkers, Floyd Thursby!

Here&#39;s some photos from our recent gig. It was great to see the audience enthusiastically singing. clapping along and showing their appreciation. Well done to all concerned!










]]></content>
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<pubDate>10 Apr 2025 02:26:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/4-community-gigs-in-4-months-whew_117s90</link>
<title><![CDATA[4 Community Gigs in 4 months, whew!]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[After the success of our recent &quot;Blues Brothers, Soul Sisters&quot; Tribute shows at the Surrey Hills Music Festival, and Melbourne Ukulele Festival, we are now looking forward to playing at the local Salvos CHATS group tomorrow; and then again next month at the Hills Ukulele Festival.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[4 Community Gigs in 4 months, whew! ... can we do it? Yes, we can! After the success of our recent &quot;Blues Brothers, Soul Sisters&quot; Tribute shows at the Surrey Hills Music Festival, and Melbourne Ukulele Festival, we are now looking forward to playing at the local Salvos CHATS group tomorrow; and then again next month at the Hills Ukulele Festival. Well done everyone, and chookas!
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/4-community-gigs-in-4-months-whew_117s90</guid>
<pubDate>03 Apr 2025 02:36:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<item>
<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/our-quotblues-brothers-soul-sistersquot-traveling-roadshow-continues_117s89</link>
<title><![CDATA[Our &quot;Blues Brothers, Soul Sisters&quot; traveling roadshow continues!]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[We have just been booked to play at the 2025 Melbourne Ukulele Festival Sunday 16 March 2025.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[Hot on the heels of our upcoming Surrey Hills Music Festival gig; we have just been booked to play at the 2025 Melbourne Ukulele Festival Sunday 16 March 2025.

When: Sunday 16 March, 1.45pm
Where: 303 Back Stage. 303 High Street Northcote

About the festival
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/our-quotblues-brothers-soul-sistersquot-traveling-roadshow-continues_117s89</guid>
<pubDate>11 Mar 2025 02:33:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<item>
<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/new-program-get-your-groove-on-with-guitar_117s87</link>
<title><![CDATA[New Program: Get your Groove on with Guitar]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Looking for a challenge? This is for Ukulele players who wish to &quot;graduate&quot; to the guitar for increased challenges, versatility, and satisfaction Also suitable for Guitar players who know the basic chords of C,A,G,E,D.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[Looking for a challenge? This is for Ukulele players who wish to &quot;graduate&quot; to the guitar for increased challenges, versatility, and satisfaction Also suitable for Guitar players who know the basic chords of C,A,G,E,D.

&quot;Get your Groove on with Guitar&quot; is a new program I am running at Vermont South Neighborhood House. VSNH discovered that there are no other local group classes in Guitar, so have asked me to start this one up. They are also taking Expressions of interest for Beginners. Please let others who are interested know too!

Learn More
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/new-program-get-your-groove-on-with-guitar_117s87</guid>
<pubDate>23 Jan 2025 02:24:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<item>
<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/music-educators-2024-survey_117s86</link>
<title><![CDATA[Music Educators 2024 Survey]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[I appreciate the camaraderie, fellowship, and shared learning from our wonderful students; and various industry groups such as Musicians Australia, Community Music Victoria, &amp; the Australian Ukulele Teachers &amp; Leaders Association.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[Q1. Do Music Educators love their work?

A2. Yes (including me)!

Q2. Want to find out more about Music Education &amp; Educators in Australia?

A2. See the attached Dropbox file link for the Summary and findings from the 2024 Musicians Australia: Music Educators Survey

I appreciate the camaraderie, fellowship, and shared learning from our wonderful students; and various industry groups such as Musicians Australia, Community Music Victoria, &amp; the Australian Ukulele Teachers &amp; Leaders Association.

Here&#39;s to a happy new year in 2025 and beyond, where we can continue to share, communicate, and encourage each other!

Stay tuned for more info, activities, press releases etc. after we convene our Working Group meeting February 2025.

https://www.meaa.org/about-us/
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/music-educators-2024-survey_117s86</guid>
<pubDate>14 Jan 2025 02:19:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/the-shnukers-ukulele-band-will-perform-at-the-surrey-hills-music-festival_117s85</link>
<title><![CDATA[The SHNUkers Ukulele Band will perform at the Surrey Hills Music Festival]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[The &quot;Blues Brothers, Soul Sisters&quot; Roadshow continues! Our first confirmed booking for the 2025 Festival and Gig season: The SHNUkers Ukulele Band will perform at the Surrey Hills Music Festival Sat 22nd Feb 2025, on the Main Stage at 2.00 - 2.30 pm.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[The &quot;Blues Brothers, Soul Sisters&quot; Roadshow continues! Our first confirmed booking for the 2025 Festival and Gig season: The SHNUkers Ukulele Band will perform at the Surrey Hills Music Festival Sat 22nd Feb 2025, on the Main Stage at 2.00 - 2.30 pm.

Check out the program at https://www.surreyhillsmusicfestival.com/ 

Come and support us if you can for some feel-good, toe-tapping, sing along music.
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/the-shnukers-ukulele-band-will-perform-at-the-surrey-hills-music-festival_117s85</guid>
<pubDate>12 Nov 2024 02:17:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/2025-traveling-roadshow-gigs-blues-brothers-soul-sisters_117s84</link>
<title><![CDATA[2025 Traveling Roadshow Gigs: Blues Brothers, Soul Sisters]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[We look forward to paying tribute to the wonderful Women &amp; Men who have enriched our lives through Music.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[Announcing the new theme for our 2025 Traveling Roadshow Gigs: &quot;Blues Brothers, Soul Sisters&quot;.

We look forward to paying tribute to the wonderful Women &amp; Men who have enriched our lives through Music. We strive to emulate these musicians and their music through our Music, songs, and upcoming Gigs.

We are currently &quot;auditioning&quot; songs in our sessions this term to select our repertoire. We look forward to enthusiastically going on the road again for the upcoming Festival &amp; Gig season! Stay tuned!
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/2025-traveling-roadshow-gigs-blues-brothers-soul-sisters_117s84</guid>
<pubDate>05 Nov 2024 02:16:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/we-sponsor-a-deakin-university-business-student_117s83</link>
<title><![CDATA[We sponsor a Deakin University Business student]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[I am very happy to sponsor a Deakin University Business student to attend the upcoming Whitehorse Business Group &quot;What&#39;s Happening in Whitehorse&quot; seminar.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[I am very happy to sponsor a Deakin University Business student to attend the upcoming Whitehorse Business Group &quot;What&#39;s Happening in Whitehorse&quot; seminar.

Deakin Business students worked with me to set up my first Website &amp; Facebook pages when I first set up my business 11 years ago. It was a ground-breaking project at the time, as I believe it was the first time an online-only project student team had ever completed a project like this.

I am also grateful to the Whitehorse Business Development Officer who helped initiate the first contact. I hope that these future business leaders will also benefit, as I have from such support &amp; cooperation.
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/we-sponsor-a-deakin-university-business-student_117s83</guid>
<pubDate>29 Aug 2024 02:12:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/des-joins-the-music-educators-working-group_117s82</link>
<title><![CDATA[Des joins the Music Educators Working Group]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Musicians Australia has formed a Music Educators Working Group to &quot;advance the safety, fairness, and working conditions of musician educators who do such vital work in our communities &quot;.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[As a member of Musicians Australia, I was asked to join the Music Educators Working Group. Musicians Australia has formed a Music Educators Working Group to &quot;advance the safety, fairness, and working conditions of musician educators who do such vital work in our communities &quot;.

I was pleased to participate in our meeting last Thursday night, where we are working on a nation-wide survey to music educators who are currently unable to access support across the industry. Stay tuned for more details to come!
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/des-joins-the-music-educators-working-group_117s82</guid>
<pubDate>06 Aug 2024 02:11:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/hills-ukulele-festival-huf_117s79</link>
<title><![CDATA[Hills Ukulele Festival (HUF)]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[The Students excel the Teacher!

Our intrepid group of UkeAlohas courageously, professionally, and joyously played on at the recent Hills Ukulele Festival (HUF); without me and other Covid-affected players who couldn&#39;t make it.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[The Students excel the Teacher!

Our intrepid group of UkeAlohas courageously, professionally, and joyously played on at the recent Hills Ukulele Festival (HUF); without me and other Covid-affected players who couldn&#39;t make it. Several of us tested positive the night before, however a core group of players quickly and efficiently took responsibility.

Some long-standing friends of mine watched The UkeAlohas play at HUF and are absolutely glowing in their unsolicited praise, viz (and I quote directly):


	&ldquo;fantastic and uplifting music; plus the background stories too&rdquo;
	&ldquo;very positive atmosphere&rdquo;
	&ldquo;well choreographed&rdquo;
	&ldquo;everyone knew their parts&rdquo;
	&ldquo;good &amp; loud solo parts&rdquo;
	&ldquo;so happy!&rdquo;
	&ldquo;could tell that you enjoyed playing&rdquo;
	&ldquo;strong sense of unity&rdquo;

]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/hills-ukulele-festival-huf_117s79</guid>
<pubDate>13 Jun 2024 06:03:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/australia39s-biggest-morning-tea_117s78</link>
<title><![CDATA[Australia&#39;s Biggest Morning Tea]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[It&#39;s a great cause! Supporting the Cancer Council. Sadly, most of us have been affected directly or have a loved one who has been affected by cancer.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[It&#39;s a great cause! Supporting the Cancer Council. Sadly, most of us have been affected directly or have a loved one who has been affected by cancer. Our wonderful talented Musicians from The Avenue Neighborhood House will be supporting and playing at this event.

Let&#39;s all do what we can to support this important work.

If you can&#39;t make it to this one, please consider another, more local event.
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/australia39s-biggest-morning-tea_117s78</guid>
<pubDate>18 May 2024 06:02:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/our-3rd-quotelvis-livesquot-gig-in-3-months.-can-we-do-it-yes-we-can_117s77</link>
<title><![CDATA[Our 3rd &quot;Elvis Lives!&quot; gig in 3 months. Can we do it? Yes we can!]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[We are looking forward to presenting our &quot;Elvis Lives!&quot; traveling roadshow for the upcoming Hills Ukulele Festival (HUF) Sunday 19 May 2024.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[We are looking forward to presenting our &quot;Elvis Lives!&quot; traveling roadshow for the upcoming Hills Ukulele Festival (HUF) Sunday 19 May 2024.

We are bursting forth 1.10 pm on the Library Stage. Elvis may have &quot;left the building&quot;, but his music lives on in our hearts and minds for ever. Come and support us at this fun-filled, family-friendly festival if you can.

https://hillsukulelefestival.au/
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/our-3rd-quotelvis-livesquot-gig-in-3-months.-can-we-do-it-yes-we-can_117s77</guid>
<pubDate>29 Apr 2024 06:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/donation-drive-for-grow-the-music_117s76</link>
<title><![CDATA[Donation Drive for Grow the Music]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[A big thank you to all our wonderful students who donated their instruments for &quot;Grow the Music&quot;. GTM has been developing music communities in remote &amp; regional Australia since 2012.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[A big thank you to all our wonderful students who donated their instruments for &quot;Grow the Music&quot;. GTM has been developing music communities in remote &amp; regional Australia since 2012.

I handed in our donations of guitars, ukuleles, and associated musical equipment this morning. GTM will be traveling North in about 2 weeks, so there&#39;s still time for more donations if you have any! Contact GTM direct if you have any spare musical instruments or equipment to donate.

https://www.growthemusic.org/
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/donation-drive-for-grow-the-music_117s76</guid>
<pubDate>26 Apr 2024 05:58:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/ukealohas-at-the-melbourne-ukulele-festival-2024_117s75</link>
<title><![CDATA[UkeAlohas at the Melbourne Ukulele Festival 2024]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[&ldquo;That was great! Can you play at our upcoming Music Festival?&rdquo;; &ldquo;Best performance so far!&rdquo;; &ldquo;It&#39;s great to see how well the players from the 6 different groups play together so seamlessly&rdquo;.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[&ldquo;That was great! Can you play at our upcoming Music Festival?&rdquo;; &ldquo;Best performance so far!&rdquo;; &ldquo;It&#39;s great to see how well the players from the 6 different groups play together so seamlessly&rdquo;.

These are just some of the comments from our appreciative audience at the Melbourne Ukulele Festival 2024. Mahalo UkeAlohas!


]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/ukealohas-at-the-melbourne-ukulele-festival-2024_117s75</guid>
<pubDate>27 Mar 2024 05:55:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/australian-ukulele-teachers-leaders-association-autla-pd-day_117s74</link>
<title><![CDATA[Australian Ukulele Teachers &amp; Leaders Association (AUTLA) PD day]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[I enjoyed meeting with other Ukulele Teachers &amp; Leaders from the Australian Ukulele Teachers &amp; Leaders Association (AUTLA) at our recent PD day.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[I enjoyed meeting with other Ukulele Teachers &amp; Leaders from the Australian Ukulele Teachers &amp; Leaders Association (AUTLA) at our recent PD day.

Along with the networking, exchanging of ideas, and social contact, I now look forward to applying this learning to improve my teaching; my own skills; and the skills of our students! A great day, and big thanks to the AUTLA committee and presenters.
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/australian-ukulele-teachers-leaders-association-autla-pd-day_117s74</guid>
<pubDate>18 Mar 2024 05:53:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/the-students-excel-the-teacher_117s73</link>
<title><![CDATA[The Students excel the teacher!]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[One of our Ukulele students - Owen Dent - has entered the Melbourne Ukulele Festival Songwriters competition.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[One of our Ukulele students - Owen Dent - has entered the Melbourne Ukulele Festival Songwriters competition. &quot;You can&#39;t write a song about that!&quot; was the challenge from one of his kids, about a very sad looking bird they saw on their travels. But Owen rose to the challenge and now has an entry in the MUF Songwriters&#39; competition. Well done, Arthur D!
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/the-students-excel-the-teacher_117s73</guid>
<pubDate>13 Mar 2024 05:52:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/quotelvis-livesquot-tribute-performance-details_117s72</link>
<title><![CDATA[&quot;ELVIS LIVES!&quot; tribute performance details]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Event: Melbourne Ukulele Festival
Date: Sunday 17th March
Time: 2.55 - 3.25 pm
Where: Chalice Hall, 251 High Street NORTHCOTE

Come &amp; support us if you can!
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[Event: Melbourne Ukulele Festival
Date: Sunday 17th March
Time: 2.55 - 3.25 pm
Where: Chalice Hall, 251 High Street NORTHCOTE

Come &amp; support us if you can!
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/quotelvis-livesquot-tribute-performance-details_117s72</guid>
<pubDate>02 Mar 2024 05:50:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/our-combined-music-group-is-playing-at-the-melbourne-ukulele-festival_117s71</link>
<title><![CDATA[our combined Music group is playing at the Melbourne Ukulele Festival!]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[The UkeAlohas are a diverse, multi-talented &amp; happy bunch of musicians from all walks of life.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[Yes, our combined Music group is playing at the Melbourne Ukulele Festival! The UkeAlohas are a diverse, multi-talented &amp; happy bunch of musicians from all walks of life. We are enthusiastically united in our love of music and our commitment to spread the joy of music to others. The show-band consists of current &amp; previous students; from across various Community Houses &amp; private students, with family and friends. Stay tuned for the details of our &quot;Elvis Lives&quot; tribute show at the MUF!
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/our-combined-music-group-is-playing-at-the-melbourne-ukulele-festival_117s71</guid>
<pubDate>26 Feb 2024 05:48:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/announcing-our-upcoming-quotelvis-livesquot-tribute-traveling-roadshow_117s70</link>
<title><![CDATA[Announcing our upcoming &quot;Elvis Lives&quot; Tribute traveling roadshow!]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[As the Melbourne Ukulele Festival Director has remarked - &ldquo;Elvis lives! Sounds awesome! Looking forward to seeing it!&rdquo;
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[As the Melbourne Ukulele Festival Director has remarked - &ldquo;Elvis lives! Sounds awesome! Looking forward to seeing it!&rdquo;

This term we are conscientiously learning, rehearsing and playing to bring the joy of Elvis&#39; music to others. Elvis may have left the building, but his music lives on in our hearts and minds. Here are our Gigs booked so far for Term 1:


	Melbourne Ukulele Festival Sun 17 Mar 2024: 2.55 - 3.25 at Chalice Hall.
	Salvos Box Hill: Fri 12 Apr 2024 10.00 onwards


Come and support us if you can! And for your support, thank you, thank you very much.
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/announcing-our-upcoming-quotelvis-livesquot-tribute-traveling-roadshow_117s70</guid>
<pubDate>03 Feb 2024 05:46:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/happy-new-year-to-all_117s69</link>
<title><![CDATA[Happy New Year to all!]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[As we enter our 2nd decade of business (and the Year of the Dragon 2024) - may the Dragon&#39;s characteristics of nobility, honor, luck, and success be with you all.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[As we enter our 2nd decade of business (and the Year of the Dragon 2024) - may the Dragon&#39;s characteristics of nobility, honor, luck, and success be with you all.

Join us if you can for another year of having fun, learning new songs, and bringing the joy of music to ourselves and others.
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/happy-new-year-to-all_117s69</guid>
<pubDate>25 Jan 2024 05:44:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/guitarstart/ukestart-10-year-anniversary_117s68</link>
<title><![CDATA[GuitarStart/UkeStart 10 year anniversary!]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[When I prepared my SBV (Small Business Victoria) Business Plan in the 2nd half of 2013; I never imagined that I would gain so much enjoyment and satisfaction. There have been so many highlights, and I look forward to many more!
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[When I prepared my SBV (Small Business Victoria) Business Plan in the 2nd half of 2013; I never imagined that I would gain so much enjoyment and satisfaction. There have been so many highlights, and I look forward to many more!

I want to send out a big thank you to all my students, supporters, music &amp; community colleagues. You have enabled us all to have fun, grow as community, and develop our musicianship together. We have developed our personal enjoyment of music, and continue to bring the joy of music to others through our individual &amp; combined efforts. Here&#39;s to many more highlights in the future!
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/guitarstart/ukestart-10-year-anniversary_117s68</guid>
<pubDate>10 Jan 2024 05:41:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/feedback-photos_117s67</link>
<title><![CDATA[Feedback &amp; Photos]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[See some feedback and photos from our recent Garage Sale Trail Gig.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[&quot;you always bring joy to others&quot;

&quot;Everyone there watching (&amp; joining in the singing!) thoroughly enjoyed the performance &amp; were very impressed with the playing &amp; singing skills on show&quot;

&quot;Brilliant.Congrats to you &amp; your ensemble.&quot;

&quot;Great performance on Saturday! What a marvellous group of players you have there  Thank you so much for organising this for us &ndash; we&rsquo;ll definitely be in contact for future events!&quot;


]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/feedback-photos_117s67</guid>
<pubDate>02 Dec 2023 06:08:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/christmas-joy-at-the-avenue-neighbourhood-house-christmas-party_117s66</link>
<title><![CDATA[Christmas joy at The Avenue Neighbourhood House Christmas party]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Christmas is coming! And so are the end of year parties, festivities, &amp; Chrissy gigs.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[Christmas is coming! And so are the end of year parties, festivities, &amp; Chrissy gigs.

Our players are bringing some Christmas joy to The Avenue Neighborhood House Christmas party on Fri 8 December. Students &amp; staff from the Avenue help with cooking &amp; serving the different courses under Chef supervision. It&#39;s always a nice Community atmosphere.

We are also playing for the &quot;Lifeskills&quot; group end of year party Thurs 14 December.

Feliz Navidad!
]]></content>
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<pubDate>21 Nov 2023 06:06:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/elvis-lives_117s65</link>
<title><![CDATA[Elvis Lives!]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Announcing our new Traveling Roadshow theme.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[Elvis may have &quot;left the building&quot; but his Music lives on in our hearts, minds, &amp; our new Roadshow. Our Ukulele groups have been enjoying auditioning, selecting &amp; playing in readiness for our upcoming Elvis Tribute show gigs.

As the Melbourne Ukulele Festival director has replied &quot;Elvis lives! Sounds awesome! Looking forward to seeing it!&quot;

If you have read this post right to the end, then &quot;thank you - thank you very much&quot;
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/elvis-lives_117s65</guid>
<pubDate>31 Jul 2023 06:04:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/i39ve-joined-the-musicians-australia-music-education-working-group_117s64</link>
<title><![CDATA[I&#39;ve joined the Musicians Australia Music Education Working Group]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Recently, I have been invited to, and joined, the Musicians Australia Music Education Working Group.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[Recently, I have been invited to, and joined, the Musicians Australia Music Education Working Group.

I&#39;m looking forward to sharing and learning with colleagues throughout Australia, and improving my expertise as a Music Educator!

Musicians Australia (as do I) strongly believe that &quot;music&zwnj; &zwnj;education&zwnj; &zwnj;is&zwnj; &zwnj;valuable&zwnj; &zwnj;in&zwnj; &zwnj;personal&zwnj; &amp; social&zwnj; &zwnj;development,&zwnj; &zwnj;in&zwnj; enhanced/relational&zwnj; &zwnj;educational&zwnj; &zwnj;development;&zwnj; &zwnj;in&zwnj; &zwnj;a&zwnj; &zwnj;wide&zwnj; &zwnj;range&zwnj; &zwnj;of&zwnj; &zwnj;industries&zwnj; &amp; economic&zwnj; &zwnj;sectors,&zwnj; &zwnj;including&zwnj; &zwnj;health,&zwnj; &zwnj;caring&zwnj; &zwnj;entertainment,&zwnj; &zwnj;arts&zwnj; &zwnj;etc.

musiciansaustralia.org
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/i39ve-joined-the-musicians-australia-music-education-working-group_117s64</guid>
<pubDate>19 Jul 2023 06:02:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/what-if-for-one-day-everything-stopped_117s63</link>
<title><![CDATA[What if for one day everything stopped?]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[And we all just listened to the music....
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[I&#39;ve registered myself for Play Music on the Porch Day, and am looking forward to continue spreading the joy of Music on the porch, on the day - August 26, 2023
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/what-if-for-one-day-everything-stopped_117s63</guid>
<pubDate>15 Jul 2023 05:59:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/getting-around-rotary_117s62</link>
<title><![CDATA[Getting around Rotary]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Over the last month I have enjoyed participating in some of the local Rotary Club meetings.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[Over the last month I have enjoyed participating in some of the local Rotary Club meetings.

The 1st was at Nunawading Rotary club who sponsored my recent &quot;Excellence in Business&quot; award. The members appreciated my presentation about the start-up, challenges &amp; successes of GuitarStart.



The 2nd was at the Ferntree Gully Rotary Club where I entertained the members in a mini-music session starting with vocal &amp; physical warm-ups, teaching some newbies, and a boisterous singalong. I&#39;m happy to report that some Rotary members are now newly enrolled in our Beginners &amp; Intermediate Groups. Here&#39;s a few happy snaps....


]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/getting-around-rotary_117s62</guid>
<pubDate>06 Jul 2023 05:51:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/the-magical-mystery-tour-continues_117s61</link>
<title><![CDATA[The  Magical Mystery Tour continues!]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Here are some photos from our 3rd Beatles Tribute traveling Roadshow; at the local John Flynn village.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[Here are some photos from our 3rd Beatles Tribute traveling Roadshow; at the local John Flynn village. The 1st half - our &quot;Get Back with the UkeAlohas&quot; set, followed by our &quot;hits &amp; memories&quot; set. The villagers enthusiastically enjoyed our show, clapping, singing, and moving to the Music! Thanks to all the wonderful musicians, and Graeme R &amp; Sue W for the photos.


]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/the-magical-mystery-tour-continues_117s61</guid>
<pubDate>05 Jun 2023 05:46:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/the-2nd-of-our-beatles-tribute-travelling-roadshow-by-the-ukealohas_117s60</link>
<title><![CDATA[The 2nd of our Beatles Tribute travelling Roadshow by the UkeAlohas!]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[The 2nd of our Beatles Tribute travelling Roadshow by the UkeAlohas! We performed last week at the local Salvation Army hall for their regular community group meeting.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[The 2nd of our Beatles Tribute travelling Roadshow by the UkeAlohas! We performed last week at the local Salvation Army hall for their regular community group meeting.

Here&#39;s some feedback from the organiser:

&quot;Hi Des,

Thanks again for the great morning of music and fun last Friday! The choice of song and the enthusiasm of you and your fantastic group was something many people commented on......

I&rsquo;ll be in touch regarding your next visit. Regard James&quot;

(Thanks to Graeme R for the photo)
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/the-2nd-of-our-beatles-tribute-travelling-roadshow-by-the-ukealohas_117s60</guid>
<pubDate>19 Apr 2023 05:45:00 GMT</pubDate>
<enclosure url='https://www.guitarstart.com.au/uploads/117/60/med-Beatles-Tribute-travelling-Roadshow.jpeg' length='378823' type='image/jpeg'/>
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<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/the-first-of-our-beatles-tribute-travelling-roadshow_117s59</link>
<title><![CDATA[The first of our Beatles Tribute travelling Roadshow!]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Our UkeAlohas Showband consists of members from 5 different Ukulele groups, along with friends &amp; family members.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[Some *photos from our recent Melbourne Ukulele Festival Gig. The first of our Beatles Tribute travelling Roadshow! Our UkeAlohas Showband consists of members from 5 different Ukulele groups, along with friends &amp; family members. All of whom I am privileged to teach, lead, and above all, enabling us to share the joy of Music to others. After some warm-ups outside, we then went in to the Hall to play for a very appreciative audience. We had them singing, clapping, and moving along to the music. Well done &amp; Mahalo to all UkeAlohas!

*(thanks to Graeme R. for the photos)


]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/the-first-of-our-beatles-tribute-travelling-roadshow_117s59</guid>
<pubDate>19 Apr 2023 05:43:00 GMT</pubDate>
<enclosure url='https://www.guitarstart.com.au/uploads/117/59/med-Melbourne-Ukulele-Festival-1.jpeg' length='366465' type='image/jpeg'/>
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<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/still-learning-with-professional-development_117s58</link>
<title><![CDATA[Still learning with professional development]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[It&#39;s not all singing &amp; playing &amp; having a good time. At the recent Melbourne Ukulele Festival (MUF) I was privileged to undertake some professional development with my peers in the Australian Ukulele Teachers&#39; &amp; Leaders&#39; Association.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[It&#39;s not all singing &amp; playing &amp; having a good time. At the recent Melbourne Ukulele Festival (MUF) I was privileged to undertake some professional development with my peers in the Australian Ukulele Teachers&#39; &amp; Leaders&#39; Association.

We learnt about 1. Building an Act. 2. Bar Chords, and 3. Ukulele ergonomics. A day well spent. I am already incorporating these newly-learned principles into our music sessions.
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/still-learning-with-professional-development_117s58</guid>
<pubDate>27 Mar 2023 05:36:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/performing-at-the-melbourne-ukulele-festival_117s57</link>
<title><![CDATA[Performing at the Melbourne Ukulele Festival!]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[The first of our Beatles Tribute Roadshows launches at the Melbourne Ukulele Festival! (confirmed Sun 19 Mar 4.15 pm at Chalice Church Hall 251 High St Northcote)
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[The first of our Beatles Tribute Roadshows launches at the Melbourne Ukulele Festival!. (confirmed Sun 19 Mar 4.15 pm at Chalice Church Hall 251 High St Northcote). Our following Gigs include local Salvos, Neighborhood Houses, Rotary, and Aged Care Centres. Off we go on our Magical Mystery Tour!
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/performing-at-the-melbourne-ukulele-festival_117s57</guid>
<pubDate>25 Feb 2023 05:34:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/ukealohas-played-at-the-vermont-south-neighbourhood-house_117s56</link>
<title><![CDATA[UkeAlohas played at the Vermont South Neighbourhood House]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[The sun started shining on the 18th of November in time for the UkeAlohas to play in the sun at the Vermont South Neighbourhood House.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[The sun started shining on the 18th of November in time for the UkeAlohas to play in the sun at the Vermont South Neighbourhood House.

The sun was shining (finally), the birds were singing; and so were the wonderful Ukulele players of the UkeAlohas! They had great fun and people enjoyed hearing them play, saw the art exhibition, got some food, and explored the twilight market.
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/ukealohas-played-at-the-vermont-south-neighbourhood-house_117s56</guid>
<pubDate>21 Nov 2022 04:19:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/gig-at-a-local-community-housing-estate_117s55</link>
<title><![CDATA[Gig at a local Community Housing estate]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Here&#39;s a photo of our recent Gig at a local Community Housing estate, organised by the local Neighborhood House.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[Here&#39;s a photo of our recent Gig at a local Community Housing estate, organised by the local Neighborhood House. The aim of this event was to attract &amp; inform residents about services around the community.

Despite the inclement weather, a number of our intrepid Muso&#39;s braved the wind &amp; rain to play with gusto! As people heard our playing, the Music attracted them like a magnet to come &amp; sing with us; and also to interact with other groups such as local Churches, Housing Networks, Foodbank &amp; Neighborhood Houses etc on site. A worthy cause, and a great job by all!
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/gig-at-a-local-community-housing-estate_117s55</guid>
<pubDate>09 Nov 2022 06:17:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/whitehorse-business-group-awards-performance_117s54</link>
<title><![CDATA[Whitehorse Business Group Awards Performance]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Whitehorse Business Group Awards night Fri 21st October Award Winners Showcase: WBG asked Des to play on the night as they wanted to showcase their award winners.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[Whitehorse Business Group Awards night Fri 21st October Award Winners Showcase: WBG asked Des to play on the night as they wanted to showcase their award winners.

He played some of his favorite classical/spanish guitar pieces, and acoustic versions of popular modern songs for the 250+ audience.

Congratulations to all winners!
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/whitehorse-business-group-awards-performance_117s54</guid>
<pubDate>24 Oct 2022 04:14:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/business-excellence-award-sole-trader-category_117s53</link>
<title><![CDATA[Business Excellence Award - Sole Trader Category]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[GuitarStart has been awarded the Business Excellence Award - Sole Trader category for the Whitehorse Business Group&#39;s 20th Anniversary celebrations.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[At the Whitehorse Business Group&#39; 20th Anniversary Awards night the judges commented on the joy of Music evident in our video, activities, and involvement in the community. They also commented on the innovation and resilience shown by all concerned, in continuing our activities online during the challenges of the last 2 years. 
 
In turn, I publicly thanked all students, colleagues and Neighbourhood/Community Houses for enabling this to happen. Also to Whitehorse Council for their Business Innovation Grant which enabled the new guitarstart.com.au website; and Web Ideas for building it. The judges were particularly impressed by all the teamwork and results in our Music Video; which they said they couldn&#39;t help but smile and feel better for watching!
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/business-excellence-award-sole-trader-category_117s53</guid>
<pubDate>21 Dec 2021 04:03:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/happy-30th-birthday-box-hill-community-arts-centre_117s30</link>
<title><![CDATA[Happy 30th Birthday Box Hill Community Arts Centre]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[The online exhibition commemorating the 30th Anniversary of BHCAC has been officially released. BHCAC has been running 30 years as an active and growing hub for arts and related community groups. We were asked to write a short reflection on our time at BHCAC.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[BHCAC is a great place to learn, teach, and play Music.

Our BHCAC based Ukulele &amp; Singing Group, The UkeAlohas, started in 2016. One of the Staff (Coordinator, Jenni Granger), joined Des&rsquo; first Ukulele Group at Surrey Hills, then asked if he could start up some Groups at BHCAC and the Adults &amp; Children Groups have been continuing ever since then.

The UkeAlohas are a fun-loving, music-loving, diverse, yet united band of Ukulele enthusiasts; united in their love for the Ukulele; playing together; and most importantly playing for others.

The UkeAlohas have played at the Whitehorse Spring Festival, Surrey Hills Music Festival, Whitehorse Multicultural Festival as well as many other Community Events.

&ldquo;I enjoy teaching &amp; playing Music at BHCAC&rdquo;, Des said. &ldquo;The facilities have a wonderful open, sunny, and airy feel, with good acoustics and artful surroundings; all conducive to encouraging us to sing and play with gusto. The Staff are great to work with too&rdquo;.

The UkeAlohas &amp; Des believe that the joy of Ukulele and Music is a gift to be shared, and look forward to continue to share their celebration of the Ukulele, Music, and life!
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/happy-30th-birthday-box-hill-community-arts-centre_117s30</guid>
<pubDate>10 Nov 2020 04:31:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/guitarstart-awarded-a-business-innovation-grant_117s39</link>
<title><![CDATA[GuitarStart awarded a Business Innovation Grant ]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[We have been awarded a Business Innovation Grant from local Government - through Whitehorse City Council. 
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[We have been awarded a Business Innovation Grant from local Government - through Whitehorse City Council. This grant is targeted towards development of a new Website and online platform; and enlisting the services of a local Business to develop on my behalf.

https://www.wbiz.com.au/.../whitehorse-recovery-grants...
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/guitarstart-awarded-a-business-innovation-grant_117s39</guid>
<pubDate>27 Oct 2020 05:25:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/what-did-frank-woodley-lano-woodley-have-to-say-about-our-performance_117s40</link>
<title><![CDATA[What did Frank Woodley (Lano &amp; Woodley) have to say about our performance?]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Here&#39;s what Frank Woodley (Lano &amp; Woodley) had to say about our GuitarStart Ukulele Group&#39;s recent Boroondara Festival performance: &quot;gorgeous playing .... so uplifting .... a testament to their dedication to keep learning, keep connected to each other &amp; keep the Music alive&quot;.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[You can see what he&#39;s talking about in this Music Video (scroll to 37.18)
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/what-did-frank-woodley-lano-woodley-have-to-say-about-our-performance_117s40</guid>
<pubDate>20 Oct 2020 05:27:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/20th-anniversary-whitehorse-excellence-in-business-awards-2020/2021_117s41</link>
<title><![CDATA[20th Anniversary Whitehorse Excellence in Business Awards 2020/2021]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[GuitarStart has now been nominated for the 20th Anniversary Whitehorse Excellence in Business Awards 2020/2021. This follows on from the recent &quot;Feelgood in Whitehorse&quot; story Award.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[&ldquo;Dear Des,

Thank You for sharing and creating a positive impact in the community during these uncertain times. Whitehorse Business Group recognises the contribution of your organisation to the community and hence your organisation has been nominated for the 20th Anniversary Whitehorse Excellence in Business Awards 2020/2021&rdquo;.
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/20th-anniversary-whitehorse-excellence-in-business-awards-2020/2021_117s41</guid>
<pubDate>12 Sep 2020 05:30:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/2nd-open-mike-night_117s43</link>
<title><![CDATA[2nd Open-Mike Night]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Better than Celebrity Gogglebox! - Big Kudos for our 2nd Open-Mike Night, Lock-down Event.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[Well done &amp; a big thank you to all GuitarStart students enabling the great success of our 2nd Open Mike Night a few days ago. We had families &amp; members from Box Hill, The Avenue, and Surrey Hills communities. 

We had at least 34 Households attending (so many they couldn&#39;t fit into my 27&quot; monitor; so I had to keep scrolling backwards &amp; forwards across the 2 pages)! Everything neatly fitted into our 1 hour timeslot too.

The participants exhibited a great &amp; expansive talent in the Arts including Harmonica, Poetry, Singing, Comedy, Balalaika, Ukulele, even Opera &amp; Cooking! Here&#39;s some unsolicited feedback that was waiting in my inbox the following morning:

&quot;It was such a great way to connect &amp; such a community contribution.&quot;

&quot;lovely to see all the happy faces again&quot;

&quot;We enjoyed our first open mic with you ... great diversity &amp; a great host!&quot;

&quot;Better than Celebrity GoggleBox!&quot;

&quot;Thanks for having us. It was tons of fun &amp; as ever, you never quite know what we&#39;ll come up with!&quot;

&quot;congratulations for the excellent hour of entertainment you provided last night. A great turnout &amp; great talent.&quot;

&quot;Thanks for organising &amp; putting on a great concert last night&quot;.
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/2nd-open-mike-night_117s43</guid>
<pubDate>20 Aug 2020 05:33:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/feel-good-stories-whitehorsetogether_117s42</link>
<title><![CDATA[Feel Good Stories - #WhitehorseTogether]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[GuitarStart&rsquo;s ZOOM-ULELE Groups have just been featured as part of Des&rsquo;s&rsquo; Award &quot;Feel Good Stories&quot; #WhitehorseTogether&quot;. 
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[This has been awarded as an example of &quot;how you or your business has positively contributed to the Whitehorse Community during COVID-19&quot;. Here is the link to the Whitehorse Business Group Linkedin page

Linkedin
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/feel-good-stories-whitehorsetogether_117s42</guid>
<pubDate>10 Jul 2020 05:31:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/inaugural-open-mike-live-streaming-sessions-for-guitarstart-students-families_117s44</link>
<title><![CDATA[Inaugural OPEN-MIKE (Live Streaming) Sessions for GuitarStart Students &amp; Families]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Staying Socially Connected with Music: Last night we successfully launched our Inaugural OPEN-MIKE (Live Streaming) Sessions for GuitarStart Students &amp; Families: Big Kudos to everyone supporting our Inaugural Open-Mike Night session. 
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[Staying Socially Connected with Music: Last night we successfully launched our Inaugural OPEN-MIKE (Live Streaming) Sessions for GuitarStart Students &amp; Families: Big Kudos to everyone supporting our Inaugural Open-Mike Night session. 

Members displayed some new &amp; existing talents coming to the fore in spreading joy to our ZOOM-ULELE &amp; ZOOM-GUITAR members &amp; families. We were all able to enjoy a great spread &amp; talent in the Arts; including Poetry, Craft, Jokes, Musical Instruments, Singing, Interview &amp; Story-telling skills.

We&#39;ve had a lot of positive feedback from the Audience; during; and after our Session. We also had around 25 Families/Households attend at last count (maybe more!). We very much look forward to having more in the future.
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/inaugural-open-mike-live-streaming-sessions-for-guitarstart-students-families_117s44</guid>
<pubDate>21 May 2020 05:35:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/music-lessons-have-got-you-covid_117s45</link>
<title><![CDATA[Music Lessons have got you Covid! ]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Thanks to the cooperation of local Neighborhood, Community, and Arts Centres, &amp; the willingness of Students; we are now running most of our Music Lessons &amp; Activities Online. 
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[Thanks to the cooperation of local Neighborhood, Community, and Arts Centres, &amp; the willingness of Students; we are now running most of our Music Lessons &amp; Activities Online. 

We have also been able to continue Social Activities; introduce Free &quot;Tasters&quot;, and even Open-Mike Nights via Zoom.
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/music-lessons-have-got-you-covid_117s45</guid>
<pubDate>03 Apr 2020 05:36:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<item>
<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/ukulele-cruise-australia-uca_117s46</link>
<title><![CDATA[Ukulele Cruise Australia (UCA) ]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Aloha Hawaii! Following on from our recent inaugural Melbourne Ukulele Cruise, Ukulele Cruise Australia (UCA) has booked me to do the upcoming Hawaii Cruise later this year. 9th - 22nd July 2020.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[Aloha Hawaii! Following on from our recent inaugural Melbourne Ukulele Cruise, Ukulele Cruise Australia (UCA) has booked me to do the upcoming Hawaii Cruise later this year. 9th - 22nd July 2020.

This is for the 50th Anniversary Oahu Ukulele Festival in Honolulu; and a Cruise around the Hawaiian Islands. I will be leading the Ukulele tutoring &amp; Ukulele-themed activities during the Tour. Am very grateful for this Professional Development opportunity to work again with the UCA team; to develop my skills in Training, Leading Groups, and playing my beloved Ukulele.

PostScript: Sadly, Covid19 meant that this Tour had to be cancelled. Nevertheless, I look ahead to overcoming these challenges, trialling new activities and doing future Tours with UCA.
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/ukulele-cruise-australia-uca_117s46</guid>
<pubDate>10 Feb 2020 05:37:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<item>
<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/melbourne-music-week-free-beginners-ukulele-workshop_117s49</link>
<title><![CDATA[Melbourne Music Week Free Beginners&#39; Ukulele Workshop]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Melbourne Music Week Free Beginners&rsquo; Ukulele Workshop hosted by our combined Groups.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[Melbourne Music Week Free Beginners&rsquo; Ukulele Workshop hosted by our combined Groups:

Free? - tick 
Fun? - tick
Family Friendly? - tick
Ukulele? - tick

We ticked all the boxes, had a great turnout of over 30 kids, parents, and other interested Music-lovers.
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/melbourne-music-week-free-beginners-ukulele-workshop_117s49</guid>
<pubDate>16 Nov 2019 05:52:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<item>
<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/surrey-hills-music-festival-2019_117s48</link>
<title><![CDATA[Surrey Hills Music Festival 2019]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[&quot;really enjoyed all the music and energy on Stage&quot;; &quot;I had enormous fun singing along&quot;; &quot;my baby couldn&#39;t stop dancing&quot;; &quot;bigger than the Beatles!&quot;.
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[&quot;really enjoyed all the music and energy on Stage&quot;; &quot;I had enormous fun singing along&quot;; &quot;my baby couldn&#39;t stop dancing&quot;; &quot;bigger than the Beatles!&quot;.

These were some of the appreciative comments from the audience at the recent Surrey Hills Music Festival performance. As part of Melbourne Music Week; 30 various GuitarStart Music students exuberantly played to a packed &amp; enthusiastic audience. We mixed it up a bit this year; with Banjo &amp; Guitar players playing their parts alongside the Ukulele Musicians. 

Well done everyone!
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/surrey-hills-music-festival-2019_117s48</guid>
<pubDate>16 Nov 2019 05:40:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/luxury-cruising-ukulele-warm-weather_117s47</link>
<title><![CDATA[Luxury Cruising? Ukulele? Warm weather? ]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[All inclusive Cruise Activities? (Hey; I know it&#39;s a tough job but someone&#39;s got to do it)!
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[Hosted by yours truly in partnership with Ukulele Cruise Australia: our Inaugural Ukulele Cruise from Melbourne launched this November. Everything was ship-shape as we cruised on the Golden Princess 17th Nov - 24th Nov 2019; where we combined our love of Music &amp; Ukulele with a luxury Cruise. 
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/luxury-cruising-ukulele-warm-weather_117s47</guid>
<pubDate>10 Nov 2019 05:38:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<item>
<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/specialist-ukulele-workshop_117s50</link>
<title><![CDATA[Specialist Ukulele Workshop ]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[Our first-ever Specialist Ukulele Workshop &quot;Sing your Heart out&quot;. This is a new format of Music sessions we trialed over the Term Break at a local Community Centre. 
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[Our first-ever Specialist Ukulele Workshop &quot;Sing your Heart out&quot;. This is a new format of Music sessions we trialed over the Term Break at a local Community Centre. 

We gave the attendees a Folder of Music, divided into 3 levels of increasing complexity. Starting with Vocal &amp; Physical warm-ups; we progressed through all 3 levels; and in the meantime had catered refreshments. A nice mix of current Uke members, family, &amp; friends attended. 

There was a keen consensus to have more in future; so we are now planning for future Specialist Workshops. These include (but not limited to): &quot;Go away Mr. Alzheimer, we&#39;re too busy!&quot; (challenging Ukulele Techniques); &quot;Boppin&#39; the Blues&quot;; Get &quot;Folk-ussed&quot;; &quot;Getting Gig-Ready&quot;; and &quot;Golden Oldies&quot;. 

Stay tuned for more Workshops in future.
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/specialist-ukulele-workshop_117s50</guid>
<pubDate>21 May 2019 05:55:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<item>
<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/multicultural-festival-2019_117s51</link>
<title><![CDATA[Multicultural Festival 2019]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[An &quot;uplifting &amp; vibrant performance&quot;; &quot;one of the highlights of the event&quot;
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[An &quot;uplifting &amp; vibrant performance&quot;; &quot;one of the highlights of the event&quot;

Our multi-talented Musicians had a  very successful Gig at the local Multicultural Festival Sun 5th May. The Manager of Box Hill South Neighbourhood House declared it &quot;one of the highlights of the event &quot;; and an &quot;uplifting and vibrant performance&quot;. 

Our Group of combined Musicians were able to get the Audience involved with Singing, Clapping, &amp; even some impromptu Interpretive Dance! Great job from all concerned. Some members courageously performing their 1st Gig this day.

Mahalo to all!
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/multicultural-festival-2019_117s51</guid>
<pubDate>05 May 2019 05:56:00 GMT</pubDate>
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<item>
<link>https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/music-for-refugees_117s52</link>
<title><![CDATA[Music for Refugees]]></title>
<description><![CDATA[This year I donated some Guitars to a very worthwhile cause - Music for Refugees. 
]]></description>
<content><![CDATA[This year I donated some Guitars to a very worthwhile cause - Music for Refugees. 

Both Guitars have an interesting story - the 1st one I collected from a Council Collection pile before it was due to be compacted in the back of the truck - what a travesty! The 2nd one I purchased from an Op shop for $30. I was able to give them some Love &amp; Restoration (with a little bit of help from local Luthiers), and voil&agrave;! - 2 perfectly serviceable Guitars.

If you&#39;ve got any spare instruments please consider donating to Music for Refugees. And If your instruments need some basic Reno&#39;s beforehand, pass them onto me and I&#39;ll get them ready to donate &amp; play.

Learn More about Music for Refugees
 
]]></content>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.guitarstart.com.au/news/music-for-refugees_117s52</guid>
<pubDate>02 Feb 2019 05:58:00 GMT</pubDate>
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