Threatening rain did not stop Paisley & District u3a members from enjoying a musical picnic.
Guests were serenaded by 14 ukulele players during their summer event held at Ferguslie cricket club. Musicians from
both East Renfrewshire u3a and the Men’s Shed in Barrhead provided light entertainment.
u3a chair, Kathy O’Donnell remarked: “2022 was the u3a movement’s ruby anniversary. We celebrated this with a
summer picnic and barbecue where our members were also treated to an outdoor performance by players from the
Caledonian Fiddle Orchestra. It was such a hit that the committee agreed to organise another annual picnic with
music.
“Just a few months ago, our u3a began holding ukulele taster sessions. There’s now a group of us who want to learn
how to play this happy-sounding instrument. Naturally, we’ve made contacts with other ukulele groups in the area.
“When players at fellow East Renfrewshire u3a and the Barrhead Men’s Shed heard about our picnic, they agreed to
come along and perform. Songs from across the decades were played and sung, ranging from Al Jolson’s ‘Campdown
races’ to Peter Nardini’s ‘I blew a kiss from Wishaw Cross.’
“These musicians received such a warm reception at the picnic. They’ve duly invited our own novice ukulele players to
come and practice with them over the summer!
“Paisley & District u3a’s ukulele group restarts in September. We hope it attracts even more people to have a go at making music together. Our website has all the details.”
Find u3a groups and activities and how to join, visit: https://u3asites.org.uk/paisley/welcome.
Photo: Paisley & District u3a members with some ukulele players
Photo Credit: Allana Parker
Photo: Warming up with East Renfrewshire’s ukulele group and the Barrhead Men’s Shed ukulele group
Photo Credit: Allana Parker