Celebrating AANHPI Heritage Month!
- Carolyn Beck, MT-BC
- 7 days ago
- 1 min read
May is Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, and National Play your Ukulele Day was on May 2nd, but music therapists often use ukuleles within sessions year round!
Did you know?
The instrument originated in Hawai’i in 1879, when Portuguese settlers brought a small guitar called the braguinha to the region. Native Hawaiian people preferred an even smaller version and, after modifications, the ukulele came to be.
Ukulele means “jumping flea.”
Source: The Metropolitan Museum of Art
What we love about the ukulele:
-The smaller size makes it accessible to many learners of all ages and abilities
-The timbre and cultural background: the sound truly transports to warm weather and ocean waves
-It is a great instrument for a group to learn a new skill together in community
-Simple chord structures mean opportunities for success and building self-esteem (And being able to play our favorite songs!)
Check out this traditional Hawaiian song, grab your ukulele, and play along!
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