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What is DUQs UKEs?
DUQs UKEs is a bi-weekly music program that includes playing ukulele accompaniment and singing popular songs in a group environment. Law School students have learned basic ukulele chords and strumming patterns and have enjoyed singing along to some of their favorite songs.
During the pilot program last spring, the group composed an original song inspired by their quest to relax during final exams. Continued participation will allow students to learn additional chords and strumming patterns, and instruments such as drums and auxiliary percussion will be added.
Robin Connors, Coordinator of Student Organizations in the School of Law, spearheaded the development of the class and continues to coordinate activities. Dr. Rachel Whitcomb, Associate Professor of Music Education in the Mary Pappert School of Music, instructs the program along with her undergraduate music education students who are studying to be music teachers.
What are the benefits?
DUQs UKEs serves as an outlet for students in the School of Law at Duquesne to engage in enjoyable musical experiences that build relationships with their peers and the school community. The low stress, come-as-you-are attitude of the class provides students with a way to express their musicality without judgment or expectation of long hours of practice time. Law School students are also able to interact with faculty and students from the Mary Pappert School of Music and have the opportunity to perform as an ensemble during the spring 2018 semester.
Possibilities for the future include expanding the group to the entire university community, playing with community musical groups such as Steel City Ukuleles, and taking our show on the road to nursing homes and other community centers.
Why are donations needed?
Last spring, DUQs UKEs earned a grant from the American Bar Association, Student Division, allowing for the purchase of 11 ukuleles, tuners and carrying cases. For future programs and performances, we have the following needs:
Questions? Contact Robin Connors ahead of time at connorsr@duq.edu.
Please donate today and help spread the word!
We ask that you please make a gift today. Gifts of all sizes make a difference! Another way to support our campaign is to spread the word to those who might be interested in donating to this project. Please share this address www.spirit.duq.edu/uke17 with family, friends, colleagues, Duquesne University alumni and on social media! Thank you!
Cover the cost to buy (1) Ukulele kit, which includes a Ukulele, tuner, and case