Ruby’s Ukes Memories Page

Angela Aquino

“I can't remember when it was exactly, maybe sometime in 2014. For whatever reason, I felt compelled to buy a ukulele. I had played guitar since I was a teenager and wanted something cute, fun, and new to learn. So I bought a ukulele,a chord book, and a Beatles song book. Self learning wasn't that fun though so I looked for any groups or schools that offered uke lessons. That's when I came across Ruby's Ukes. I remember going to my first class at the Seymour location and meeting Daphne for the first time. She was so lovely and welcoming, as was everyone else in that class. I felt like I found my kula, my posse, my community of fellow uke nerds, lol. 

At the last class of that first course, I remember Daphne invited anyone who wanted to play and sing in front of the class. I had been learning Here, There, and Everywhere from my Beatles song book which had some Bb chords which we had learned in class. I nervously volunteered. Omg I was so nervous. It was my first time to ever play or sing in front of people. But I remember Daphne sitting near the front and giving me the most encouraging smile. She told me this was the safest place to try something like this. And so I played. And I sang. And even though my hands and voice were shaking, I loved every moment of it. I honestly feel like this was one of those moments that allowed me to level up, haha, from the fear and nervousness, I definitely gained confience in myself. (Daphne, I don't know if you have video of this anywhere, but if you do, I would love to see it!!)

Because of such a positive experience with the first class, I was hooked. I joined a few more classes and eventually joined the orchestra. I so looked forward to Monday nights for Orchestra. This was the highlight of my week for many years. I loved learning new songs, learning new techniques, and focusing on picking melody as Uke 1. Under the guidance of Tim and eventually Eduardo, I so loved the challenge of not only playing and contributing to my part, but getting to the point when we all started to gel together, and the music and harmonies started to work and make sense. It was absolutely beautiful and I have so many memories that I will hold onto always. I remember sitting with Teri, Mona, and Genea in the back row, just giggling and cursing whenever we fucked up. But we were always determined to get our parts right, but sometimes when the brain and fingers don't cooperate, it was quite comedic. 

One of my favourite orchestra memories was when we played Bohemian Rhapsody for the first time in a show. We practiced for weeks and weeks and weeks. I remember the nervous energy in the orchestra when we started the song at the show. I also remember the nervous energy from the audience as they listened to every note, every strum and every pluck. I remember getting to the solo part and preparing for the subsequent fast/odd tempo part and then driving toward the finish line. I remember playing the last note, and the orchestra beside and behind me exhale. I remember the complete silence for a split second, looking out into the audience and just sensing that they were holding in.....and then the burst of applause!!! I was so proud of us, we made it through and we sounded amazing!! And after the show, my mom, who was in the audience told me, "wow you're actually good!". Hahah yes mom, we are!

There are many other moments that I can write about. Daphne and the Ruby's Ukes team -- a heartfelt thank you to each of you for building this community and allowing me to be part of it. You created a space that allowed me to open myself and connect with others in such a unique way. Life has gotten busy on my end but I always thought that I would return back to Ruby's Ukes. I am very sad for the end of this version of it, but looking forward to whatever comes next. I will be there to support you. "