LIVE MUSIC Wukulele Festival in Worthing

UKELELE fever has hit Worthing and pupils from one school have been busy rehearsing for their debut on the iconic instrument.

A group of children at Whytemead First School, in Dominion Road, have been learning how to play the ukelele ahead of a special concert at the St Paul’s Centre, in Chapel Road, tomorrow (Friday, October 8) at 4pm.

The concert, 60 Ukeleles for 60 Children, will see pupils from year three perform a new piece of music in collaboration with songwriter Sean O’Hagan.

The performance is part of the three-day Wukulele Festival – the south coast’s international ukelele festival – running until Sunday, October 10.

The project has been masterminded by Daniela Gargiulo and Whytemead pupils have been taught to play by Andrew Walker.

Mr Walker said “The children have progressed at a rapid pace, given that, for many, this is their first experience of playing a musical instrument.

“The children can’t wait to take their ukeleles home and are really looking forward to performing on stage.”

Head teacher Candida Reece said: “I’m delighted children at my school have been given such a brilliant opportunity and I am very grateful to the organisers of this event.

“I have loved listening to Andrew’s lessons and know the children will have gained so much more than learning a musical instrument during the project.

“I believe that participating in events like this promotes values like co-operation and responsibility, which are at the heart of our curriculum.”

The Wukulele Festival welcomes performers from across the world at both the St Paul’s Centre and Assembly Hall.

Tickets on 01903 751752