Tag Archives: Port Coquitlam

Cutie Circle’s 2020 Ukulele Workshop Series Postponed Indefinitely

In light of the current Public Health Agency of Canada’s guidance on Covid-19, Cutie Circle volunteers (aka Cuties) deeply regret to announce that the Sixth Annual Ukulele Workshop Series for Absolute Beginners will be postponed indefinitely in order to help mitigate disease transmission in the community-at-large.

In the meantime, ukulele kits (including instruction books) are available for loan from your local Fraser Valley Regional Library locations should aspiring students seek to have an early start on their ukulele journey via self-study.

We hope to offer it again at a future date and it will be announced on our website. If you would like to be informed by email, please feel free to complete the “Join Us” form to be added to our mailing list.

We have included below the general details about our workshop series for information only.

Stay healthy, hydrated, happy and safe.


Intended for absolute beginners with little to no background in music, this workshop will give participants some basic knowledge to begin a journey into music using the happiest instrument on earth.

It was a fantastic experience for attendees and volunteers alike and we can hardly wait to meet everyone and spread the joy of ukulele this spring.

Many of our students have gone on to share music by volunteering their time to perform at municipal and regional events and/or to teach ukulele to other seniors and children in the community.

Photo Credit: Helena M.

We thank the City of Port Coquitlam for offering the beautiful Michael Wright Art Gallery at Leigh Square for this workshop free of charge.

LS2

Gathering Place, Leigh Square Community Arts Village

Date: Postponed Indefinitely
Time: 1:30 to 3:30 pm
Location: Michael Wright Art Gallery, Gathering Place, 2253 Leigh Square Place, Port Coquitlam
Admission: Free
Pre-registration is currently closed.

Courtesy of City of Port Coquitlam

Courtesy of City of Port Coquitlam

Workshop Requirements

Participants are encouraged to bring their own ukulele, music stand, digital tuner and copy of the textbook, Ukulele for Dummies, 2nd Edition. (Please do not be offended by the title of this rather good publication.)

Ukulele Kits Loaning Program

We have acquired a few sets of ukuleles, music stands, digital tuners and textbooks (with our personal funds) for loaning to participants who do not own any equipment, upon receipt of a refundable deposit of $60. Please do not mark in (and/or damage) the loaner textbooks (otherwise the deposit will be forfeited). Participants can reserve a set when they register using the form below.

Ukulele Scholarship Initiative

We are in the process of establishing a small scholarship for a few keen students who might otherwise not be able to afford to buy their own ukuleles to continue their music journey upon conclusion of our ukulele workshop series. Those who would like to donate any ukulele in good condition (new or used) to this scholarship program are welcome to contact us. We will put you and the recipient in touch.

2019 Ukulele Scholarship Winners

Ukulele Lending, Rental and Sales in the Region

As some of you have asked about the availability of ukuleles in the region, we have made some inquiries at local stores.

  • Empire Music has a selection of ukuleles available via its website. For pick-up orders only (with a 24-hour advance notice because the company is a warehouse not a store-front), our students can pick up their orders in person to save on shipping.
    Empire Music has generously offered us a discount on the ukuleles we purchased for this workshop.
  • Long & McQuade (Port Coquitlam) has ukuleles for sale and can offer a payment plan. The store also offers special discounts on ukuleles for all Cuties. The discounts can range from 9% to 15% depending on the make and model of the ukulele. Mention Cutie Circle at time of purchase to receive the discount. Ask for Brandon Smith for further assistance. (Information current as of March 24, 2017.)
  • Tom Lee Music (Coquitlam) has offered participants of this workshop a 10% discount on regular-priced ukuleles and music books. Please contact Dallas Todd or Adam Dean at the store and mention you are a participant of this workshop to receive a discount. (Information current as of March 14, 2017.)
  • Tapestry Music has offered participants of this workshop store discounts on regular-priced ukuleles. Please contact Michael Sabourin at the store and mention you are a participant of this workshop.

Disclosure: We do not receive commission from any of these merchants. They are mentioned here as a service to the participants only.

LS1

Michael Wright Art Gallery, Gathering Place

Ukulele Lending Collection at the Fraser Valley Regional Library (FVRL)

  • Cutie Circle and Terry Fox Library collaborated in the Fall of 2016 to create the Uke ‘n Play ukulele public lending collection. The Cutie Circle, Empire Music, King’s Music, Ohana Music and our good friend, Linda Thiessen, collectively donated 50 ukulele kits (including ukuleles, gig bags and tuners) and the FVRL rounded out the collection with ukulele instruction books and plastic containers for each kit. Library patrons of the 25 FVRL branches (from Port Coquitlam to Boston Bar) can now borrow ukuleles for free. In fact, Library network cardholders in the surrounding region (e.g., Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley) can borrow ukuleles in person at FVRL locations as well. A further 20 ukulele kits were donated to FVRL in the Fall of 2017 by King’s Music and the Cutie Circle.

Cutie Circle’s 2019 Ukulele Workshop Series for Absolute Beginners

For the fifth year in a row, Cutie Circle volunteers (aka Cuties) will once again be offering aspiring adult ukulele players a free ukulele workshop series on Saturday afternoons.

Intended for absolute beginners with little to no background in music, this workshop will give participants some basic knowledge to begin a journey into music using the happiest instrument on earth from April 6 to June 8.

It was a fantastic experience for attendees and volunteers alike and we can hardly wait to meet everyone and spread the joy of ukulele this spring.

Many of our students have gone on to share music by volunteering their time to perform at municipal and regional events and/or to teach ukulele to other seniors and children in the community.

Photo Credit: Helena M.

We thank the City of Port Coquitlam for offering the beautiful Michael Wright Art Gallery at Leigh Square for this workshop free of charge.

LS2

Gathering Place, Leigh Square Community Arts Village

Date: Saturdays, April 6 to June 8, 2018
Time: 1:30 to 3:30 pm
Location: Michael Wright Art Gallery, Gathering Place, 2253 Leigh Square Place, Port Coquitlam
Admission: Free
Pre-registration is required. Registration form is located on the bottom of this page.

Courtesy of City of Port Coquitlam

Courtesy of City of Port Coquitlam

Workshop Requirements

Participants are encouraged to bring their own ukulele, music stand, digital tuner and copy of the textbook, Ukulele for Dummies, 2nd Edition. (Please do not be offended by the title of this rather good publication.)

Ukulele Kits Loaning Program

We have acquired a few sets of ukuleles, music stands, digital tuners and textbooks (with our personal funds) for loaning to participants who do not own any equipment, upon receipt of a refundable deposit of $60. Please do not mark in (and/or damage) the loaner textbooks (otherwise the deposit will be forfeited). Participants can reserve a set when they register using the form below.

Ukulele Scholarship Initiative

We are in the process of establishing a small scholarship for a few keen students who might otherwise not be able to afford to buy their own ukuleles to continue their music journey upon conclusion of our ukulele workshop series. Those who would like to donate any ukulele in good condition (new or used) to this scholarship program are welcome to contact us. We will put you and the recipient in touch.

Ukulele Lending, Rental and Sales in the Region

As some of you have asked about the availability of ukuleles in the region, we have made some inquiries at local stores.

LS1

Michael Wright Art Gallery, Gathering Place

Ukulele Rental

  • Long & McQuade (Port Coquitlam) has a couple of soprano ukuleles in stock for rent at $10/month. Please confirm with the store regarding availability if interested. (Information current as of March 14, 2017.)

Ukulele Sales

  • Empire Music has a selection of ukuleles available via its website. For pick-up orders only (with a 24-hour advance notice because the company is a warehouse not a store-front), our students can pick up their orders in person to save on shipping.
    Empire Music has generously offered us a discount on the ukuleles we purchased for this workshop.
  • Long & McQuade (Port Coquitlam) has ukuleles for sale and can offer a payment plan. The store also offers special discounts on ukuleles for all Cuties. The discounts can range from 9% to 15% depending on the make and model of the ukulele. Mention Cutie Circle at time of purchase to receive the discount. Ask for Brandon Smith for further assistance. (Information current as of March 24, 2017.)
  • Tom Lee Music (Coquitlam) has offered participants of this workshop a 10% discount on regular-priced ukuleles and music books. Please contact Dallas Todd or Adam Dean at the store and mention you are a participant of this workshop to receive a discount. (Information current as of March 14, 2017.)

Disclosure: We do not receive commission from any of these merchants. They are mentioned here as a service to the participants only.

Ukulele Lending Collection at the Fraser Valley Regional Library (FVRL)

  • Cutie Circle and Terry Fox Library collaborated in the Fall of 2016 to create the Uke ‘n Play ukulele public lending collection. The Cutie Circle, Empire Music, King’s Music, Ohana Music and our good friend, Linda Thiessen, collectively donated 50 ukulele kits (including ukuleles, gig bags and tuners) and the FVRL rounded out the collection with ukulele instruction books and plastic containers for each kit. Library patrons of the 25 FVRL branches (from Port Coquitlam to Boston Bar) can now borrow ukuleles for free. In fact, Library network cardholders in the surrounding region (e.g., Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley) can borrow ukuleles in person at FVRL locations as well. A further 20 ukulele kits were donated to FVRL in the Fall of 2017 by King’s Music and the Cutie Circle.

Scheduling Notes and Supplementary Materials

The Workshop Series will be held on April 6, 13, 27; May 4, 25; Jun 1, 8.

LS

Registration

Online registration opens on March 15.
Registration confirmation will be sent to email addresses supplied via the form below. We look forward to meeting you at the workshop.

The workshop series is geared towards adult learners and is unsuitable for young children and unaccompanied minors due to the length of each 2-hour session and the pedagogy employed. Adult participants who would like to bring along minors must supervise and assist their children at all times during the workshop.

As seats are limited, we kindly ask that all who register for this workshop commit to attending all sessions. Participants with full attendance will receive a Certificate of Completion for the workshop. Registration is required for all participants (including accompanied minors).

To assist us in our lesson planning, please let us know briefly your music background.

For volunteers who are registering to help with the workshop, please indicate availability in the “Questions / Comments” box.

 

Cuties Share Ukulele Joy in Metro Vancouver Throughout December

Photo Courtesy: Patrick M.

Are you ready for some upbeat and heartwarming ukulele events this December? We have a full line-up of free community activities, performances, a food drive and, of course, our Christmas Ukulele Strum-and-Sing-Along! The Cuties will be hard at work practicing and everyone is welcome to join them at the rehearsals even if they cannot attend the performances!

Upcoming Ukulele Events

Christmas Ukulele Sing-Along and Lessons for Special Needs Social Group at Douglas Park Community Centre, Vancouver
Wednesday, December 12 from 3:00 to  4:30pm

Refreshments and good cheers will be provided.

Photo Courtesy of Harvey S.

Breakfast with Santa at the Wilson Centre
Saturday, December 15, 10am to 11am

Come sing and strum with other ukulele and guitar players while all the boys and girls (and their family and friends) await Santa’s grand entrance! Have a photo with Santa!

Photo Courtesy of Robert F.

Christmas Songs with the Cutie Circle at the Terry Fox Library
Saturday, December 15, 1:30pm to 3:30pm

Spread some holiday cheer by joining the Cuties and the Terry Fox Library’s ukulele jam group as we sing and play Christmas songs. Everyone is welcome.

Cutie Circle Christmas Strum-and-Sing-Along at Evergreen Cultural Centre
Sunday, December 16, 1:40pm to 4:00pm (note early start time)

Celebrate Christmas with us at our December song circle. We will also be holding a food drive for SHARE Food Bank. Your current, quality, non-perishable food item(s) will benefit local families. There will be yummy seasonal treats and good cheer! Santa will be making an appearance with his sack of presents!

  • Canned Fruits and Vegetables
  • Canned Fish and Meat
  • Pasta and Sauces
  • Canned Meals
  • Rice
  • Cereal
  • Peanut Butter
  • Pancake Mix
  • Juice
  • Granola Bars
  • Ensure Meal Supplements

City of Coquitlam Jingle Bells Night and Winter Lights Display
Friday, December 21

Join the Cuties and other choral groups from 7 – 8 p.m. for carolling at the lake on Jingle Bells Night. At 7:30 p.m., stop wherever you are and join in a community sing-a-long of Jingle Bells. Don’t forget to print ​your song book. Rain or shine! The Cuties will be at Station 7.

See you at our events!

Cutie Circle’s 2018 Ukulele Workshop Series for Absolute Beginners

For the fourth year in a row, Cutie Circle volunteers (aka Cuties) will once again be offering aspiring adult ukulele players a free ukulele workshop series on Saturday afternoons.

Intended for absolute beginners with little to no background in music, this workshop will give participants some basic knowledge to begin a journey into music using the happiest instrument on earth from April 14 to June 9.

It was a fantastic experience for attendees and volunteers alike and we can hardly wait to meet everyone and spread the joy of ukulele this spring.

Many of our students have gone on to share music by volunteering their time to perform at municipal and regional events and/or to teach ukulele to other seniors and children in the community.

Photo Credit: Helena M.

We thank the City of Port Coquitlam for offering the beautiful Michael Wright Art Gallery at Leigh Square for this workshop free of charge.

LS2

Gathering Place, Leigh Square Community Arts Village

Date: Saturdays, April 14 to June 9, 2018
Time: 1:30 to 3:30 pm
Location: Michael Wright Art Gallery, Gathering Place, 2253 Leigh Square Place, Port Coquitlam
Admission: Free
Pre-registration is required. Registration form is located on the bottom of this page.

Courtesy of City of Port Coquitlam

Courtesy of City of Port Coquitlam

Workshop Requirements

Participants are encouraged to bring their own ukulele, music stand, digital tuner and copy of the textbook, Ukulele for Dummies, 2nd Edition. (Please do not be offended by the title of this rather good publication.)

Ukulele Kits Loaning Program

We have acquired a few sets of ukuleles, music stands, digital tuners and textbooks (with our personal funds) for loaning to participants who do not own any equipment, upon receipt of a refundable deposit of $60. Please do not mark in (and/or damage) the loaner textbooks (otherwise the deposit will be forfeited). Participants can reserve a set when they register using the form below.

Ukulele Scholarship Initiative

We are in the process of establishing a small scholarship for a few keen students who might otherwise not be able to afford to buy their own ukuleles to continue their music journey upon conclusion of our ukulele workshop series. Those who would like to donate any ukulele in good condition (new or used) to this scholarship program are welcome to contact us. We will put you and the recipient in touch.

Ukulele Lending, Rental and Sales in the Region

As some of you have asked about the availability of ukuleles in the region, we have made some inquiries at local stores.

LS1

Michael Wright Art Gallery, Gathering Place

Ukulele Rental

  • Long & McQuade (Port Coquitlam) has a couple of soprano ukuleles in stock for rent at $10/month. Please confirm with the store regarding availability if interested. (Information current as of March 14, 2017.)

Ukulele Sales

  • Empire Music has a selection of ukuleles available via its website. For pick-up orders only (with a 24-hour advance notice because the company is a warehouse not a store-front), our students can pick up their orders in person to save on shipping.
    Empire Music has generously offered us a discount on the ukuleles we purchased for this workshop.
  • Long & McQuade (Port Coquitlam) has ukuleles for sale and can offer a payment plan. The store also offers special discounts on ukuleles for all Cuties. The discounts can range from 9% to 15% depending on the make and model of the ukulele. Mention Cutie Circle at time of purchase to receive the discount. Ask for Brandon Smith for further assistance. (Information current as of March 24, 2017.)
  • Tom Lee Music (Coquitlam) has offered participants of this workshop a 10% discount on regular-priced ukuleles and music books. Please contact Dallas Todd or Adam Dean at the store and mention you are a participant of this workshop to receive a discount. (Information current as of March 14, 2017.)

Disclosure: We do not receive commission from any of these merchants. They are mentioned here as a service to the participants only.

Ukulele Lending Collection at the Fraser Valley Regional Library (FVRL)

  • Cutie Circle and Terry Fox Library collaborated in the Fall of 2016 to create the Uke ‘n Play ukulele public lending collection. The Cutie Circle, Empire Music, King’s Music, Ohana Music and our good friend, Linda Thiessen, collectively donated 50 ukulele kits (including ukuleles, gig bags and tuners) and the FVRL rounded out the collection with ukulele instruction books and plastic containers for each kit. Library patrons of the 25 FVRL branches (from Port Coquitlam to Boston Bar) can now borrow ukuleles for free. In fact, Library network cardholders in the surrounding region (e.g., Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley) can borrow ukuleles in person at FVRL locations as well. A further 20 ukulele kits were donated to FVRL in the Fall of 2017 by King’s Music and the Cutie Circle.

Scheduling Notes and Supplementary Materials

The Workshop Series will be held on April 14, 21, 28; May 5, 26; Jun 2, 9.

LS

Registration

Online registration is now full. To be added to the waiting list, please complete the form below.
Registration confirmation will be sent to email addresses supplied via the form below. We look forward to meeting you at the workshop.

The workshop series is geared towards adult learners and is unsuitable for young children and unaccompanied minors due to the length of each 2-hour session and the pedagogy employed. Adult participants who would like to bring along minors must supervise and assist their children at all times during the workshop.

As seats are limited, we kindly ask that all who register for this workshop commit to attending all sessions. Participants with full attendance will receive a Certificate of Completion for the workshop. Registration is required for all participants.

To assist us in our lesson planning, please let us know briefly your music background.

For volunteers who are registering to help with the workshop, please indicate availability in the “Questions / Comments” box.

 

Meet New Friends at Ukulele Events All December in Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam and Port Moody

Are you ready for some heartwarming ukulele events this December? We have a full line-up of free community activities, performances, a food drive and, of course, our Christmas Ukulele Strum-and-Sing-Along! The Cuties will be hard at work practicing and everyone is welcome to join them at the rehearsals even if they cannot attend the performances!

Upcoming Ukulele Events

 

Terry Fox Library Christmas Tea Ukulele Performance and Sing-Along
Thursday, December 7

This event takes place from 2 to 3pm. Refreshments and good cheers will be provided.

Photo Courtesy of Harvey S.

Breakfast with Santa at the Wilson Centre
Saturday, December 9, 10am to 11am

Come sing and strum with other ukulele and guitar players while all the boys and girls (and their parents) await Santa’s grand entrance! Have a photo with Santa!

Photo Courtesy of Robert F.

 

Cutie Circle Christmas Strum-and-Sing-Along at Evergreen Cultural Centre
Sunday, December 17, 1:40pm to 4:00pm (note early start time)

Celebrate Christmas with us at our December song circle. We will also be holding a food drive for SHARE Food Bank. Your current, quality, non-perishable food item(s) will benefit local families. Santa will be making an appearance with his sack of presents!

Community Christmas Dinner at Port Moody Pacific Grace MB Church
Sunday, December 17

We’ll be performing at a community Christmas dinner in Port Moody after our song circle.

City of Coquitlam Jingle Bells Night and Winter Lights Display
Friday, December 22

Join the Cuties and six other choral groups from 7 – 8 p.m. for carolling at the lake. At 7:30 p.m., stop wherever you are and join in a community sing-a-long of Jingle Bells. Help us break our record of 500 voices! Don’t forget to print ​your song bookFree jingle bells will be handed out to the public, while quantities last. Rain or shine!

Check out the description of the many display light features here.

See you at our events!

Cutie Circle Ukulele Jamboree on Culture Days 2017

Join the fun and discover a new instrument as you learn to play a song on the ukulele in just five minutes at our Culture Days events. For a complete listing of all the Tri-Cities’ Culture Days happenings, download this 2017 Culture Days Guide.

Cutie Circle volunteers will be celebrating Culture Days on September 30 from 1 to 4pm in the Michael Wright Art Gallery of the Gathering Place at Leigh Square Community Arts Village in Port Coquitlam and on October 1 in Room 789 at Pinetree Community Centre in Coquitlam.

We will have on hand ukuleles for curious aspiring musicians to try their hands at strumming and singing!

On Saturday, Cuties will also be performing twice at Leigh Square as part of the unveiling of the Canada 150 Mural at 12:15pm and 12:35pm. Come sing and/or strum with us!

Cutie Circle Performs during Canada 150 Mosaic Mural Unveiling
Time: 12:15 – 12:25pm; 12:35 – 12:45pm
Date: Saturday, September 30, 2017
Location: Leigh Square Community Arts Village, 2253 Leigh Square, Port Coquitlam
Bring your ukulele and join us in the performances as the City of Port Coquitlam unveils its Canada 150 Mosaic Mural.

Cutie Circle Ukulele Jamboree in Port Coquitlam
Time: 1:00 – 4:00pm
Date: Saturday, September 30, 2017
Location: Michael Wright Art Gallery, Gathering Place, 2253 Leigh Square, Leigh Square, Port Coquitlam
Come for a free ukulele lesson between 1:00 and 3:00pm. Bring your ukulele and come for our open jam from 3:00 to 4:00pm.

Cutie Circle Ukulele Jamboree in Coquitlam
Time: 9:00 am – 12:00 noon
Date: Sunday, October 1, 2017
Location: Room 789, Pinetree Community Centre, 1260 Pinetree Way, Coquitlam
Come for a free ukulele lesson between 9:00 and 11:00am. Bring your ukulele and come for our open jam from 11:00am to 12:00 noon.

We’ll have on display a fresh-off-the-factory-floor Populele, a smart ukulele that helps ukesters learn new songs.

Check out Canada’s only Conchalele and be immersed in the tropical island-feel!

Better yet, bring your uke and attend our open jam.

We thank Leigh Square of City of Port Coquitlam and the Pinetree Community Centre of City of Coquitlam for sponsoring our events. Special thanks go to Place Des Arts for including us in the Tri-Cities promotion.

Cutie Circle’s 2017 Ukulele Workshop Series for Absolute Beginners

For the third year in a row, Cutie Circle volunteers (aka Cuties) will once again be offering aspiring ukulele players a free ukulele workshop series on Saturday afternoons.

Intended for absolute beginners with little to no background in music, this workshop will give participants some basic knowledge to begin a journey into music using the happiest instrument on earth from April 8 to June 10.

It was a fantastic experience for attendees and volunteers alike and we can hardly wait to meet everyone and spread the joy of ukulele this spring. Many of our students have gone on to share music by volunteering their time to perform at municipal and regional events and/or to teach ukulele to other seniors and children in the community.

Photo Credit: Helena M.

We thank the City of Port Coquitlam for offering the beautiful Michael Wright Art Gallery at Leigh Square for this workshop free of charge.

LS2

Gathering Place, Leigh Square Community Arts Village

Date: Saturdays, April 8 to June 10, 2017
Time: 1:30 to 3:30 pm
Location: Michael Wright Art Gallery, Gathering Place, 2253 Leigh Square Place, Port Coquitlam
Admission: Free
Pre-registration is required. Registration form is located on the bottom of this page.

Courtesy of City of Port Coquitlam

Courtesy of City of Port Coquitlam

Workshop Requirements

Participants are encouraged to bring their own ukulele, music stand, digital tuner and copy of the textbook, Ukulele for Dummies, 2nd Edition. (Please do not be offended by the title of this rather good publication.)

volunteers

Ukulele Kits Loaning Program

We have acquired a few sets of ukuleles, music stands, digital tuners and textbooks (with our personal funds) for loaning to participants who do not own any equipment, upon receipt of a refundable deposit of $60. Please do not mark in (and/or damage) the loaner textbooks (otherwise the deposit will be forfeited). Participants can reserve a set when they register using the form below.

Ukulele Scholarship Initiative

We are in the process of establishing a small scholarship for a few keen students who might otherwise not be able to afford to buy their own ukuleles to continue their music journey upon conclusion of our ukulele workshop series. Those who would like to donate any ukulele in good condition (new or used) to this scholarship program are welcome to contact us. We will put you and the recipient in touch.

Ukulele Lending, Rental and Sales in the Region

As some of you have asked about the availability of ukuleles in the region, we have made some inquiries at local stores.

LS1

Michael Wright Art Gallery, Gathering Place

Ukulele Rental

  • Long & McQuade (Port Coquitlam) has a couple of soprano ukuleles in stock for rent at $10/month. Please confirm with the store regarding availability if interested. (Information current as of March 14, 2017.)

Ukulele Sales

  • Empire Music has a selection of ukuleles available via its website. For pick-up orders only (with a 24-hour advance notice because the company is a warehouse not a store-front), our students qualify for a 5% discount. (Information current as of March 14, 2017.)
    Empire Music has generously offered us a discount on the ukuleles we purchased for this workshop.
  • Long & McQuade (Port Coquitlam) has ukuleles for sale and can offer a payment plan. The store also offers special discounts on ukuleles for all Cuties. The discounts can range from 9% to 15% depending on the make and model of the ukulele. Mention Cutie Circle at time of purchase to receive the discount. Ask for Brandon Smith for further assistance. (Information current as of March 24, 2017.)
  • Tom Lee Music (Coquitlam) has offered participants of this workshop a 10% discount on regular-priced ukuleles and music books. Please contact Dallas Todd or Adam Dean at the store and mention you are a participant of this workshop to receive a discount. (Information current as of March 14, 2017.)

Disclosure: We do not receive commission from any of these merchants. They are mentioned here as a service to the participants only.

Ukulele Lending Collection at the Fraser Valley Regional Library (FVRL)

  • Cutie Circle and Terry Fox Library collaborated in the Fall of 2016 to create the Uke ‘n Play ukulele public lending collection. The Cutie Circle, Empire Music, King’s Music, Ohana Music and our good friend, Linda Thiessen, collectively donated 50 ukulele kits (including ukuleles, gig bags and tuners) and the FVRL rounded out the collection with ukulele instruction books and plastic containers for each kit. Library patrons of the 25 FVRL branches (from Port Coquitlam to Boston Bar) can now borrow ukuleles for free. In fact, Library network cardholders in the surrounding region (e.g., Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley) can borrow ukuleles in person at FVRL locations as well.

Scheduling Notes and Supplementary Materials

The Workshop Series will start on April 8.

There will be no workshop on April 15 due to the Easter long weekend.

There will be no workshop on May 13 due to the May Day Parade.

There will be no workshop on May 20 due to the Victoria Day long weekend.

LS

Registration

Online registration began on March 15, 2017 and is now closed.

Thank you for your support. All seats have been filled.

Registration confirmation has been sent to email addresses supplied via the form below. We look forward to meeting you at the workshop.

The workshop series is geared towards adult learners and is unsuitable for young children and unaccompanied minors due to the length of each 2-hour session and the pedagogy employed. Adult participants who would like to bring along minors must supervise and assist their children at all times during the workshop.

As seats are limited, we kindly ask that all who register for this workshop commit to attending all sessions. Participants with full attendance will receive a Certificate of Completion for the workshop. Registration is required for all participants.

If you would like to be put on the waiting list, please complete the form below. To assist us in our lesson planning, please let us know briefly your music background.

Volunteers who are registering to help with the workshop, please indicate availability in the “Music Background / Comments” box.

Cutie Circle’s 2016 Ukulele Workshop Series for Absolute Beginners

group_2015

Cutie Circle volunteers (aka Cuties) will once again be offering aspiring ukulele players a free ukulele workshop series on Saturday afternoons from April 16 to June 11. Intended for absolute beginners with little to no background in music, this workshop will give participants some basic knowledge to begin a journey into music using the happiest instrument on earth!

It was a fantastic experience for attendees and volunteers alike last fall and we can hardly wait to meet everyone and share the joy of ukulele this spring.

Photo Credit: Helena M.

We thank the City of Port Coquitlam for offering the beautiful Michael Wright Art Gallery at Leigh Square for this workshop free of charge.

LS2

Gathering Place, Leigh Square Community Arts Village

Date: Saturdays, April 16 to June 11, 2016 (*note the start date has moved to April 16)
Time: 1:30 to 3:30 pm
Location: Michael Wright Art Gallery, Gathering Place, 2253 Leigh Square Place, Port Coquitlam
Admission: Free
Pre-registration is required. Registration form is located on the bottom of this page.

Courtesy of City of Port Coquitlam

Courtesy of City of Port Coquitlam

Workshop Requirements

Participants are encouraged to bring their own ukulele, music stand, digital tuner and copy of the textbook, Ukulele for Dummies, 2nd Edition. (Please do not be offended by the title of this rather good publication.)

volunteers

Ukulele Kits Loaning Program

We have acquired a few sets of ukuleles, music stands, digital tuners and textbooks (with our personal funds) for loaning to participants who do not own any equipment, upon receipt of a refundable deposit of $60. Please do not mark in (and/or damage) the loaner textbooks (otherwise the deposit will be forfeited). Participants can reserve a set when they register using the form below. [The new deposit amount reflects the increased costs of textbooks and music stands.]

Ukulele Scholarship Initiative

We are in the process of establishing a small scholarship for a few keen students who might otherwise not be able to afford to buy their own ukuleles to continue their music journey upon conclusion of our ukulele workshop series. Those who would like to donate any ukulele in good condition (new or used) to this scholarship program are welcome to contact us. We will put you and the recipient in touch.

Ukulele Rental and Sales in the Region

As some of you have asked about the availability of ukuleles in the region, we have made some inquiries at local stores.

LS1

Michael Wright Art Gallery, Gathering Place

Ukulele Rental

  • Long & McQuade (Port Coquitlam) has a couple of ukuleles in stock for rent at $8/month. Please confirm with the store regarding availability if interested.

Ukulele Sales

  • Empire Music has a selection of ukuleles available via its website and has offered us a discount on the ukuleles we purchased for this workshop.
  • Long & McQuade (Port Coquitlam) has ukuleles for sale and can offer a payment plan. Please ask for Girard Knox for more information.
  • Tom Lee Music (Coquitlam) has offered participants of this workshop a 10% discount on regular-priced ukuleles and music books. Please contact Dallas Todd or Adam Dean at the store and mention you are a participant of this workshop to receive a discount. (Information current as of March 3, 2016.)

Disclosure: We do not receive commission from any of these merchants. They are mentioned here as a service to the participants only.

Scheduling Note and Supplementary Materials

The Workshop Series will start on April 16.

There will be no workshop on May 7 due to the May Day Parade.

There will be no workshop on May 21 for the Victoria Day long weekend.

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Registration

Online registration began on March 15, 2016.

Registration confirmation will be sent to email addresses supplied via the form below. We look forward to hearing from you.

As seats are limited, we kindly ask that all who register for this workshop commit to attending all sessions. Participants with full attendance will receive a Certificate of Completion for the workshop. Due to the length of each afternoon session, the workshop is unsuitable for young children. To assist us in our lesson planning, please let us know briefly your music background.

Volunteers who are registering to help with the workshop, please indicate availability in the “Music Background / Comments” box.

Cutie Circle Offers Free 10-Week Ukulele Workshop for Absolute Beginners

Free Workshop

Cutie Circle volunteers (aka Cuties) will be offering aspiring ukulele players a free ukulele workshop on Saturday afternoons from October 3 to December 5. Intended for absolute beginners with little to no background in music, this workshop will give participants some basic knowledge to begin a journey into music using the happiest instrument on earth!

We thank the City of Port Coquitlam for offering the beautiful Michael Wright Art Gallery at Leigh Square for this workshop free of charge.

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Gathering Place, Leigh Square Community Arts Village

Date: Saturdays, October 3 to December 5, 2015
Time: 1:30 to 3:30 pm
Location: Michael Wright Art Gallery, Gathering Place, 2253 Leigh Square Place, Port Coquitlam
Admission: Free
Pre-registration is strongly advised.

Courtesy of City of Port Coquitlam

Courtesy of City of Port Coquitlam

Workshop Requirements

Participants are encouraged to bring their own ukulele, music stand, digital tuner and copy of the textbookUkulele for Dummies. (Please do not be offended by the title of this rather good publication.)

We have also acquired a few sets of ukuleles, music stands, digital tuners and textbooks (with our personal funds) for loaning to participants who do not own any equipment, upon receipt of a refundable deposit of $55. Please do not mark in (and/or damage) the loaner textbooks (otherwise the deposit will be forfeited). Participants can reserve a set when they register using the form below.

As some of you have asked about the availability of ukuleles in the region, we have made some inquiries at local stores.

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Michael Wright Art Gallery, Gathering Place

Ukulele Rental

  • Long & McQuade (Port Coquitlam) has a couple of ukuleles in stock for rent at $8/month. Please confirm with the store regarding availability if interested.

Ukulele Sales

  • Empire Music has a selection of ukuleles available via its website and has offered us a discount on the ukuleles we purchased for this workshop.
  • Long & McQuade (Port Coquitlam) has ukuleles for sale and can offer a payment plan. Please ask for Girard Knox for more information.
  • Tom Lee Music (Coquitlam) has offered participants of this workshop a 15% discount on ukuleles and music books. Please contact Dallas Todd at the store and mention you are a participant of this workshop to receive a discount.

Disclosure: We do not receive commission from any of these merchants. They are mentioned here as a service to the participants only.

Scheduling Note and Supplementary Materials

There will be no workshop on October 10 for the Thanksgiving long weekend. Workshop materials will be condensed to accommodate for this closure.

On October 24, the workshop will end early as we will be heading to a concert in Bellingham by one of the ukulele superstars, Jake Shimabukuro, from Hawaii. If you would like to take part, tickets can be obtained from Mount Baker Theatre while they are still available.

On October 29 at 9pm or on October 30 at 12am, please watch the documentary, Mighty Uke, on BC’s Knowledge Network if you have not watched it already.

On October 31, we will have a special Halloween-themed session.

On November 28, there will be no workshop as we have just been notified on October 2 that the Gathering Place will be used to host another function.

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Registration

The workshop is currently full and registration is now closed.

As seats are limited, we kindly ask that all who register for this workshop commit to attending all sessions. Participants with full attendance will receive a Certificate of Completion for the workshop. Due to the length of each afternoon session, the workshop is unsuitable for young children. To assist us in our lesson planning, please let us know briefly your music background. Volunteers who are registering to help with the workshop, please indicate availability in the “Music Background / Comments” box.

Ukulele for Harmony Tutorials on Culture Days – Sep 26, 2015

The Cutie Circle is offering free ukulele tutorials to absolute beginners as part of the nation-wide Culture Days effort! Come and join in on the fun.

Culture Days

Learn to strum some chords and sing some songs with your fellow budding ukulele players! Let your inner musician shine and get a taste of what music can do for you! Get in on the soothing sounds so well-known in Hawaii and beyond!

Ukuleles, music stands, etc. will be provided on site. All you have to do is bring yourself, your friends and family!

Let’s play harmony together using the world’s happiest instrument. Music self-played is happiness self-made!

This event is sponsored by the Cutie Circle and the City of Port Coquitlam.

Date: Saturday, September 26, 2015
Time: 1:00 to 5:00 pm
Location: M. Wright Art Gallery, Gathering Place, 2253 Leigh Square Place, Port Coquitlam
Admission: Free

Courtesy of City of Port Coquitlam

Courtesy of City of Port Coquitlam