This beautiful ukulele arrived via courier just the other day. It was in time for some very painful anniversaries but also brought me so much joy amongst the tears.
My uncle Barry was talking about this ukulele while he was still in Cape Town for my father's memorial. As soon as he got back to his workshop in Pretoria, where he ran his own "Guitar Hospital," restoring beautiful works of art to their original sound and aesthetic. Barry had seen many incredible instruments come and go, but this one, he felt, was extra special.
My father's passing brought us together for the first time since I was a tiny young thing - about 3 years old. Just like my father, music undoubtedly ran through his veins and through mine, as well as his very talented daughter. It's a "Mobey" Gift.
This song always makes me think of them both... especially my father. The lyrics are so fitting for the story of his life.
Barry and I were in constant daily contact after he left our home, having spent some time staying with us as we grieved for my father, held the memorial, and then let his ashes go. We were definitely completely unprepared for Barry to pass away so soon after my father - with an age gap of 12-odd years between them. I do know how much they adored each other... and it gives me some comfort that I believe they are somewhere together, reading Terry Pratchett novels and playing guitar in the Sweet Hereafter.
Barry was absolutely determined to restore this beautiful instrument for me. He thought it was meant for me somehow.
One evening we were chatting till about 6 pm as he continued to work on it for me. Little did I know I would be receiving a phone call from his wife to tell me that he had passed in his sleep.
He had a very dear friend who came to sort out his workshop after he passed away, returning instruments to their owners, collecting payments, and finishing restorations.
Ryan Pringle from Ryan's Guitar Works finished the work that Barry had started, and although it took three years to get to me, it was certainly worth the wait.
I was overwhelmed with excitement when the package arrived, but I decided to wait until @zakludick came home before I opened it. The kids were just as excited. Uncle Barry had truly made such a massive impact in our lives in such a short time, and we all loved him very much.
As we opened the package and gazed at her, I became overwhelmed by emotions as I stared in awe of its absolute beauty. I shall have to give her a name,I think.
Its design is so intricate and almost too beautiful to play, but I know for sure Barry would have wanted me to enjoy playing her and writing songs inspired by her.
I am in fact now learning to play the ukulele. Here is a great starter tutorial I found online:
Once I've worked through this one thoroughly, I will move up to more advanced classes.
I must admit getting used to four strings instead of six has been strange. Apparently, people usually make the transition from four-string to six-string rather than the other way around, but hopefully that means I will learn to play it much faster.
I am wondering what songs would sound good and that I could convert to Ukulele. Any suggestions?
