Jumping fleas...jumping ukus also known as head lice...that's basically what ukulele means. When you're playing the uke, your fingers look like jumping bugs and insects.
So, a lot of people think that ukes originated in Hawaii. Well, actually...it didn't. It was a gift to the Hawaiians from the Portuguese. Nonetheless, it has become an essential instrument that is very deeply rooted in modern Hawaiian mele (music) and culture.
When I was in elementary school, ukes became part of music class. It was required for us to learn how to play it just as basketball and baseball are fundamental sports that are implemented in physical education.
Well, I wouldn't have it any other way. If they didn't incorporate playing the uke into our Hawaiiana and music lessons, I probably wouldn't love it as much as I do now.
If the educational system intends to stop incorporating it in the classroom setting, I'll take my kids out of public school, home school them and teach them to play the ukulele myself...nah, just kidding about pulling them out of public school. I don't have that much faith in the public school system, but I did okay by it (I think). I'll just give them music lessons at home whether they like it or not lol.
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