Island Ukuleles Background

From its birth in Portugal to the venerable instruments associated with the music of Hawaii, the Ukulele has gained an enduring reputation. To help continue the tradition, Bonita (Bonnie) Smith formed the Island Ukuleles to bring the sounds of this versatile instrument to Victoria B.C., Canada. Island Ukuleles boasts a 50-year history and maintains a repertoire that encompasses music that spans the decades and the world.

Scenic Vancouver Island provides a perfect atmosphere for the "Island Ukuleles" which is currently directed by Mrs. Tina Horwood, herself an alumnae of the ensemble, Mr. Matthew Martin, and Mrs. Melissa McKnight (Pacifica Ukes alumnae). The "Island Ukuleles" Association is comprised of students from kindergarten through grade 12 from over 20 different schools in the Victoria area. This is a natural outgrowth of the elementary schools' ukulele program in this area.

"Island Ukuleles" is an honour ukulele ensemble based out of School District 61 in Victoria, B.C. Students in "Island Ukuleles" receive instruction from qualified teachers with a background in ukulele and music instruction. The students are introduced to music theory, and vocal and instrumental skills through the use of ukuleles, acoustic basses, drum set and other percussion instruments.

"Island Ukuleles" strives for a high level of musicianship through a performance-based comprehensive music program. Students who are involved in the A (Senior) Ensemble are able to receive high school program credits for their participation in the program.

Our Purpose

The purpose of the "Island Ukuleles" organization is to provide an opportunity for students to grow musically and personally by participating in ukulele performance ensembles past their grade school years. Its primary goal is to promote, foster, and maintain a high quality of music and musicianship in the various Island Ukuleles Ensembles. Secondly, we aim to promote community awareness of the ukulele program by encouraging the student groups to perform often for community events and organizations. Learning outcomes include technical competency on ukulele, voice, bass, drums, piano, music theory, music history, and music style through a performance-based, comprehensive music program.

Performance Credits

The island Ukuleles have performed in venues all over the world and close to home.  Here are some highlights of performances that Island Ukuleles students have given over the history of the program:

• The islands of Oahu and Hawaii - Hawaii, USA
• Panama City, David, Bastimentos - Panama
• Tokyo - Japan
• Havana - Cuba
• Anaheim, San Francisco, Los Angeles, San Leandro, Santa Cruz - California, USA
• Portland, Medford - Oregon, USA
• Seattle, Olympia, Port Angeles, Redmond, Kalama - Washington, USA
• Halifax, Sydney, Cape Breton Island - Nova Scotia, Canada
• Calgary, Edmonton, Banff, Jasper - Alberta, Canada
• Victoria, Nanaimo, Campbell River, Vancouver, Kamloops, Kelowna, (and many others) - British Columbia, Canada
• Multiple performances given on various airlines at 36,000 feet