Musical Passport
Musical Passport is a series of classes for beginners of all ages to explore music, instruments, and cultures from around the globe. Experienced teaching artists from various musical traditions will facilitate the classes in our series. We hope that this experience will provide an opportunity for artistic exploration and community connection.
Discover the Joy of Ukulele: Beginner Class for All Ages!
Learn to play the ukulele with our specially curated class suitable for beginners of all ages. Whether you’re a young enthusiast or someone looking to pick up a new hobby later in life, this class is designed to be inclusive and enjoyable for everyone.
What You’ll Learn:
Basic Chords and Strumming: We’ll start from the very beginning, learning how to hold and tune your ukulele, and progress into mastering fundamental chords and strumming patterns.
Songs: You’ll learn to play songs that inspire and uplift, making your practice sessions both fun and rewarding.
Rhythm and Timing: Develop a solid sense of rhythm and timing, essential for playing music with others or simply enjoying on your own.
Technique and Posture: Learn proper playing techniques and posture to ensure comfort and efficiency while playing.
Classes take place on Saturdays: 1 PM-2 PM
March 8
March 15
March 22
March 29
We will explore basic techniques, such as how to play a single note and simple melodies, rhythmic playing, articulation, and more advanced topics.
All levels are welcome!
Classes take place on Sundays: 10 AM-11 AM
March 9
March 16
March 23
April 6 (make up class for March 30)
In this series we will learn the foundations of Rio style Samba Batucada through playing technique as well as how the different drum voices contribute to the ensemble. This style of drumming is practiced with the drums worn on the body and the drums can be heavy. Accommodations can be made if plenty of notification is given before class. All instruments, sticks and straps will be provided. Just bring yourself and an open mind. Aside from the foundational techniques we will also learn about the cultural context of Samba in Brazilian society and the role these Samba communities play in political resistance and uplifting black consciousness in Rio de Janeiro. We will touch briefly on other styles of samba from other parts of Brazil and geography. We will briefly watch some videos showing samba school bateria performances to give us a full understanding of the art form.
Instruments will be provided.
Classes take place on Sundays: 11:30 AM-12:30 PM
March 23
March 30
April 6
April 13
Scholarships are available. Please email Education and Community Programs Manager Aaron Nigel Smith for more information. asmith@thereser.org
Mission and Vision
The Patricia Reser Center for the Arts Education and Community Mission is to inspire the awakening of creativity in all of us by providing access to exceptional arts experiences to, lifelong learners, students, educators, and families in our community.
The Reser honors the cultures and customs of its diverse community and, using the awesome power of the Arts, creates opportunities for deeper understanding and authentic connections between people. Diversity, equity, and inclusion are at the forefront as we develop programs and initiatives for people of all ages and walks of life. Our beautiful facility serves as a gathering space where Arts & Culture thrive, and people have unique and engaging opportunities to explore creativity. At The Reser, we envision a venue where everyone in our community is empowered, feels represented, and welcome.