Long Live the Ukulele!

Image from Wikimedia commons

The Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain did a few shows in Finland, and I was lucky enough to attend the concert in Turku last week. I loved the show; it's impossible not to smile when somebody plays the ukulele, and when you add to that some wry British humour, well-chosen covers, and loads of genuine enthusiasm, you have a winner.

The songs performed ranged from pop to rock to classical, but I especially enjoyed the orchestra's version of Nirvana's "Smells Like Teen Spirit." The crowd went wild when one of the players pulled out a kantele (a traditional Finnish instrument used in folk music) and started playing. I also liked the medleys of different songs.

You can view videos of the orchestra's performances on youtube, but for the full experience you need to see them live. Definitely go if you get the chance. Looks like they've got a bunch of shows coming up in the UK and in Germany in the next six months. All the shows in Finland were pretty much sold out, so it's best to get your tickets well in advance if you want to go.