June 3 – 5, 2022
Ukulele World Congress
~ by Chrissy Alspaugh
Ukulele enthusiasts from around the world excitedly await this summer’ s return of the
Ukulele World Congress. UWC XIII, a free annual gathering that’ s been suspended during COVID, will be held June 3-5 in Needmore, about four miles north of Nashville on Indiana 45 at 4600 Plum Creek Road.
The event sells itself as little more than a friendly stage, insanely long open mic nights, and a welcoming crowd.
“ What’ s interesting is the variety of acts you’ ll see— touring groups to total beginners,” said Thom Pallozola, volunteer stage manager.“ Even with the total beginners, people are cheering them on like crazy. There’ s no better way to get your confidence level up for performing than at the Ukulele World Congress.”
The event was launched in 2008 when Mike Hater, of Mainland Ukuleles, issued a simple invitation to some fellow ukulele players to come strum and camp. Since then the gathering has drawn as many as 1,000 musicians and spectators.
Professional musicians often can be seen teaching less-experienced ukulele players new techniques and tricks. Ukulele makers swap knowledge. And ukulele enthusiasts from around the globe who have been chatting for years in ukulele forums online, can finally gather to brainstorm and make music in person, Pallozola said.
The few scheduled activities that take place during the event include a Friday night potluck dinner, group picture on Saturday, and open mic nights Friday and Saturday that begin at 5 p. m. and often continue until 2 – 3 a. m. the next day.
The rules at UWC are simple, Pallozola said: 2 songs per open mic performer, and no dogs, drums, fireworks, or littering. Oh, and,“ Don’ t be a jerk.”
Organizers host an annual raffle during the gathering to help offset event costs. Raffled items
usually include attending performers’ CDs, ukulelerelated gifts, and a grand prize that allows the winner to select the ukulele of their choice from Mainland Ukuleles.
Primitive camping and portable restrooms will be available; the only permanent structure at the event is the stage. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, and their own food and drinks, as none will be sold on site.
“ It’ s truly just a gathering and celebration of the ukulele,” Pallozola said.“ You won’ t find a more friendly crowd than all these musicians with nothing but passion for this beautiful little instrument.”
For more information, visit < ukuleleworldcongress. wordpress. com >. •
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