TBUG 2017 was November 3rd, 4th, 5th at The Sirata Beach Resort.
TBUG 2017 photos from Tom McGuigan and Mary Mahoney can be found here and here.
TBUG 2017 Program Guide available here.
The Tampa Bay Ukulele Society is excited to announce the artist lineup for the Tampa Bay Ukulele Getaway. Each of these outstanding artists will be conducting custom workshops, meet and greets with attendees and performing a 45 minute set at Saturday Night's concert.
Artists performing:
Del Rey
Fred Sokolow
Aaron Keim
Kyle Biss & The Applebutter Express Band
Mike Hind
Ty Olopai, Mapuana & TJ Weger at the Luau
Bigger, Better and at the Beach... Dont Miss Out!!!
TBUG 2017 photos from Tom McGuigan and Mary Mahoney can be found here and here.
TBUG 2017 Program Guide available here.
The Tampa Bay Ukulele Society is excited to announce the artist lineup for the Tampa Bay Ukulele Getaway. Each of these outstanding artists will be conducting custom workshops, meet and greets with attendees and performing a 45 minute set at Saturday Night's concert.
Artists performing:
Del Rey
Fred Sokolow
Aaron Keim
Kyle Biss & The Applebutter Express Band
Mike Hind
Ty Olopai, Mapuana & TJ Weger at the Luau
Bigger, Better and at the Beach... Dont Miss Out!!!
Del Rey
What happens when you give a certain little four-year-old girl a classical guitar and make her practice every day? In this case, you get Del Rey, one of the most rhythmic and musical ukulele players currently plying their trade on the third planet from the sun.
Over the years, Del Rey has evolved into one of the best ukulele teachers around. “When I first started teaching ukulele, I was coming from guitar and was teaching difficult moving bass lines and things like that, and giving ukulele players too much information. Now I’ve reached a point where I can get folks playing in a really stylistic way that’s valid and interesting without killing them.”
Happy Traum, of Homespun Music Instruction, for whom Del has recorded a number of video lessons, says, “You only have to hear Del once to be knocked out by her technical ability. Of the hundreds of people we have recorded lessons with, Del is the only one where we can simply turn on the camera and let it run. She is such a natural teacher and knows her material so well—I’ve never seen anything like it.” -- Jim D'Ville in Ukulele Magazine
What happens when you give a certain little four-year-old girl a classical guitar and make her practice every day? In this case, you get Del Rey, one of the most rhythmic and musical ukulele players currently plying their trade on the third planet from the sun.
Over the years, Del Rey has evolved into one of the best ukulele teachers around. “When I first started teaching ukulele, I was coming from guitar and was teaching difficult moving bass lines and things like that, and giving ukulele players too much information. Now I’ve reached a point where I can get folks playing in a really stylistic way that’s valid and interesting without killing them.”
Happy Traum, of Homespun Music Instruction, for whom Del has recorded a number of video lessons, says, “You only have to hear Del once to be knocked out by her technical ability. Of the hundreds of people we have recorded lessons with, Del is the only one where we can simply turn on the camera and let it run. She is such a natural teacher and knows her material so well—I’ve never seen anything like it.” -- Jim D'Ville in Ukulele Magazine
Fred Sokolow
Fred Sokolow is best known as the author of a library of instructional books and DVDs for guitar, banjo, Dobro, mandolin, lap steel and ukulele. There are currently over a hundred and twenty of his books or DVDs in print, sold all over the world. Fred has long been a well-known West Coast multi-string performer and recording artist, particularly on the acoustic music scene. The diverse musical genres covered in his books and DVDs, along with several bluegrass, jazz and rock CDs he has released, demonstrate his mastery of many musical styles. Whether he's playing Delta bottleneck blues, bluegrass or old-time banjo, Hawaiian lap steel, 30s swing guitar or screaming rock solos, he does it with authenticity and passion.
Born in Los Angeles September 14, 1945, by the early 1960s Fred was well known in the California bluegrass scene, playing with Jody Stecher, Brantley Kearns, Sandy Rothman and Eric Thompson. Relocating to Berkeley, he toured and recorded with a hippie rock band throughout most of the 60s, the Bay Area-based Notes From the Underground (Vanguard Records). In the early 70s Fred performed with R&B, rock, country and bluegrass bands. By 1975 Fred had played with bluegrass luminaries like John Herald, Frank Wakefield and Jerry Garcia, had opened for the Dead, the Doors, B.B. King, Country Joe and the Fish and countless other acts, and he was playing in jazz combos with some of the Bay Areas best studio players. www.sokolowmusic.com
Fred Sokolow is best known as the author of a library of instructional books and DVDs for guitar, banjo, Dobro, mandolin, lap steel and ukulele. There are currently over a hundred and twenty of his books or DVDs in print, sold all over the world. Fred has long been a well-known West Coast multi-string performer and recording artist, particularly on the acoustic music scene. The diverse musical genres covered in his books and DVDs, along with several bluegrass, jazz and rock CDs he has released, demonstrate his mastery of many musical styles. Whether he's playing Delta bottleneck blues, bluegrass or old-time banjo, Hawaiian lap steel, 30s swing guitar or screaming rock solos, he does it with authenticity and passion.
Born in Los Angeles September 14, 1945, by the early 1960s Fred was well known in the California bluegrass scene, playing with Jody Stecher, Brantley Kearns, Sandy Rothman and Eric Thompson. Relocating to Berkeley, he toured and recorded with a hippie rock band throughout most of the 60s, the Bay Area-based Notes From the Underground (Vanguard Records). In the early 70s Fred performed with R&B, rock, country and bluegrass bands. By 1975 Fred had played with bluegrass luminaries like John Herald, Frank Wakefield and Jerry Garcia, had opened for the Dead, the Doors, B.B. King, Country Joe and the Fish and countless other acts, and he was playing in jazz combos with some of the Bay Areas best studio players. www.sokolowmusic.com
Aaron Keim
No stranger to the ukulele world, Aaron has been teaching ukulele techniques and performing at festivals since 2004. As an educator with a bachelor's degree in Music Education and a master's degree in Musicology, his true talents lie in his ability to adapt instruction to fit a wide range of learners and learning styles. Aaron is an ambassador for old time folk music in the ukulele world, adapting banjo and guitar techniques to the ukulele (including playing in the "clawhammer" tradition). His YouTube instructional videos have gained a worldwide following and have led to teaching and performing opportunities in North America, Europe and Australia. Aaron is also a luthier, building instruments for Mya-Moe ukuleles (www.myamoe.com) since 2011 and as Beansprout banjo ukuleles from 2007-2011.
Aaron and his wife Nicole have also self published several educational ukulele books with topics ranging from jug band songs to fingerstyle technique. Many of their books include instructional videos on YouTube, which has contributed to the worldwide success of their products. Nicole's handwritten notation and illustrations in these books are the perfect compliment to Aaron's well planned scope and sequence of lessons, ukulele arrangements and original compositions. quietamericanmusic.com
Kyle Biss & Applebutter Express
Some people may discover The Applebutter Express through their new song “Hey My Brotha,” a single from their sophomore project One For The Home Team, which is featured in the Ron Howard film “The Good Lie” starring Reese Witherspoon released in October of 2015.
However, the band’s story begins in 2004, when Kyle Biss met his future wife Shannon while working at a record store in Bradenton, Florida. Still a focused bass player, Kyle picked up a ukulele in 2010 and began to write songs, with the idea of singing with Shannon (his then girlfriend) for fun on the couch. Pretty soon the duo began making a name for themselves among the open mic community; in no time, the eclectic, tuneful duo – now known as The Applebutter Express – were the talk of Tampa, Florida. Kyle and Shannon married in 2011, and in 2012 added Joe Trivette on the fiddle. Newest member, Zach Rogers (bass) joined in 2015.
Since then, The Applebutter Express has performed at such prestigious festivals as Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival, Hulaween, Suwannee Springfest, and many others.
Some people may discover The Applebutter Express through their new song “Hey My Brotha,” a single from their sophomore project One For The Home Team, which is featured in the Ron Howard film “The Good Lie” starring Reese Witherspoon released in October of 2015.
However, the band’s story begins in 2004, when Kyle Biss met his future wife Shannon while working at a record store in Bradenton, Florida. Still a focused bass player, Kyle picked up a ukulele in 2010 and began to write songs, with the idea of singing with Shannon (his then girlfriend) for fun on the couch. Pretty soon the duo began making a name for themselves among the open mic community; in no time, the eclectic, tuneful duo – now known as The Applebutter Express – were the talk of Tampa, Florida. Kyle and Shannon married in 2011, and in 2012 added Joe Trivette on the fiddle. Newest member, Zach Rogers (bass) joined in 2015.
Since then, The Applebutter Express has performed at such prestigious festivals as Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival, Hulaween, Suwannee Springfest, and many others.
Mike Hind
Mike Hind will host and perform at TBUG 2017. The irrepressible Bermudian has had a busy time over the past few years, touring with the Flea Bitten Dawgs for two years straight in the US, then, in 2015 and ’16, making a name for himself in the UK, as well as playing at his regular weekly gigs all year. His first tour in the UK led to a cover story in UKE Magazine, a featured guest spot at the Grand Northern Ukulele Festival and a headline spot at the Grand Southern Ukulele Festival alongside Victoria Vox and Aldrine Guerrero. Last year, his new CD, “Plan E” came out, featuring new, original songs. www.mikehind.com
Mike Hind will host and perform at TBUG 2017. The irrepressible Bermudian has had a busy time over the past few years, touring with the Flea Bitten Dawgs for two years straight in the US, then, in 2015 and ’16, making a name for himself in the UK, as well as playing at his regular weekly gigs all year. His first tour in the UK led to a cover story in UKE Magazine, a featured guest spot at the Grand Northern Ukulele Festival and a headline spot at the Grand Southern Ukulele Festival alongside Victoria Vox and Aldrine Guerrero. Last year, his new CD, “Plan E” came out, featuring new, original songs. www.mikehind.com
Ty Olopai
Ty Olopai and his partner Mapuana will be our featured performers for the Sunday Luau. Ty was born and raised on the tiny island of Saipan. In his teen years he was always playing his guitar at family gatherings and school festivals. His favorite gig is when he is volunteering at his local community church as a musician for the choir.
He left home in 1994 to attend UH, University of Hawaii-Hilo studying music.
He then moved to Southern California.
In 2001, Florida became his home away from home.
He has been a freelance musician all over the state of Florida and other states playing the ukulele. He teaches ukulele regularly at Penny Lane Music in Fort Lauderdale.
In 2009, he founded "FUN" Florida Ukulele Network, a 501c(3) non-profit organization. www.floridaukulelenetwork.org
Ty Olopai and his partner Mapuana will be our featured performers for the Sunday Luau. Ty was born and raised on the tiny island of Saipan. In his teen years he was always playing his guitar at family gatherings and school festivals. His favorite gig is when he is volunteering at his local community church as a musician for the choir.
He left home in 1994 to attend UH, University of Hawaii-Hilo studying music.
He then moved to Southern California.
In 2001, Florida became his home away from home.
He has been a freelance musician all over the state of Florida and other states playing the ukulele. He teaches ukulele regularly at Penny Lane Music in Fort Lauderdale.
In 2009, he founded "FUN" Florida Ukulele Network, a 501c(3) non-profit organization. www.floridaukulelenetwork.org
TBUG 2017 is November 3rd, 4th, 5th and will be bigger and better than ever. We will be back at the Sirata Beach Resort on St. Pete Beach with space to hold up to 300 attendees. www.sirata.com/
The same program format will be used as in previous TBUG festivals along with some new activities.
There will be plenty of time all weekend to mingle with new and old friends, and a 24-hour jam room for those who just can't get enough!!
Tickets are $189 and include admission to all events, lunch & dinner Saturday and Luau Lunch on Sunday.
Tickets go on sale to the general public July 1st at 12:00 midnight.
Buy them here.
TBUG 2017 Attendees. We know you are all getting excited and ready for the event. I just wanted to cover a few FAQs:
- Will I get a paper ticket in mail? No. Just provide your name at the event registration desk. We will have your badge and event program and a tshirt (if you pre-ordered)
- Is Friday night or Sunday Luau open to the public? No. With more than 300 paid attendees, we are at capacity for the hotel. You must wear your badge at all times to enter, to attend events, and to partake in the provided meals. Please do not come if you didn't buy a ticket. Thanks.
- Open Mic info: We have two open mic events. Friday is for solo or duo performers. Sunday is for a band (3 or more performers). There will be sign-up slips at Registration so we know how many want to participate (you will get to do 1 or 2 songs depending on how many enter).
- Can I buy raffle tickets, TBUG merchandise and auction items with a credit card? YES! We have lots of donations that will be in our raffle pool and silent auction so bring money and credit card!!
This is going to be a great event and we look forward to seeing all of you.
Tom Hood
President TBUS
Calendar of Events:
All Weekend
Jam Room
3rd Floor Date Palm Room
Friday
1 - 6 PM
Registration, raffle sales
2nd floor Majestic Foyer
4 - 6:30
Vendors and Raffle Sales
2nd floor Majestic Foyer
6:00 PM
Kickoff Ceremonies & TBUS Band and Special Guests
2nd floor Majestic Palm Ballroom
7 - 8:30 PM
Open Jam Session hosted by Norine & Vinny Mungo
2nd floor Majestic Palm Ballroom
8:30 - 11 PM
Open Mic (solo/duos only) hosted by Mike Hind
2nd floor Majestic Palm Ballroom
Saturday
8:30 - 9:45 AM
Songwriting Workshop
Alan Thornton and Kristie Worden
8th floor Royal Palm Room
9 -10 AM
Registration, Vendors and Raffle Sales
2nd floor Majestic Foyer
10 -11 AM
Workshop Group (A) Del Rey
Workshop Group (B) Fred Sokolow
2nd floor Majestic Palm Ballroom
11-12 PM
Workshop Group (A) Aaron Keim
Workshop Group (B) Kyle Biss
2nd floor Majestic Palm Ballroom
12 -12:30 PM
Break - Vendors and Raffle Sales
12:30-1:30 PM
Buffet Lunch
Outdoor Breezeway Deck
1:30-3PM
Meet & Greet with Artists & artist merchandise sales
8th floor Royal Palm Room
3 - 4 PM
Workshop Group (A) Fred Sokolow
Workshop Group (B) Del Rey
2nd floor Majestic Palm Ballroom
4 - 5 PM
Workshop Group (A) Kyle Biss Workshop Group (B) Aaron Keim
2nd floor Majestic Palm Ballroom
5 - 6 PM
Break - vendor and raffle sales
6 - 7 PM
Buffet Dinner featuring Big Tiki and the Mai Tai’s
2nd floor Majestic Palm Ballroom
7 -10 PM
Concert with Mike Hind, Kristie Worden & Alan Thornton, Aaron Keim, Kyle Biss & The Applebutter Express, Fred Sokolow, and Del Rey
2nd floor Majestic Palm Ballroom
10 -11 PM
Special announcement regarding TBUG 2018
2nd floor Majestic Palm Ballroom
Artist and Vendor Sales
2nd floor Majestic Foyer
Sunday
9 -10 AM
TBUG 2018 Ticket pre-sale, artist & vendor sales
2nd floor Majestic Foyer and Palm Ballroom
10 AM -12
Open Mic for bands only (3 or more performers) hosted by Mike Hind
2nd floor Majestic Palm Ballroom
11AM
Silent auction closed and winners announced
2nd floor Majestic Palm Ballroom
12 PM
Ukulele raffle winners announced
2nd floor Majestic Palm Ballroom
1-3 PM
Luau Hawaiian Buffet - Ty & Mapuana
with Bobby Manatan and Steve Boisen
Outdoor Breezeway Deck
The Tampa Bay Ukulele Society has reserved a block of rooms with special discounted rates of $149 each for Friday and Saturday nights. For those wishing to extend their stay, the discounted rate of $124 is also available for Wednesday, Thursday, Sunday and Monday nights.
Rooms go fast. Book now to reserve yours. Your credit card information will be taken, but you won't be charged until you check in.
Overlooking the sparkling white sands of St. Pete Beach, Sirata Beach Resort invites you to sit back, relax, and enjoy an array of gulfside activities.
This family-friendly St. Pete resort offers a collection of comfortable guest rooms and suites with welcoming amenities and stunning water views and includes three swimming pools, a fitness center, and Wi-Fi access, among others. This casual beachfront resort also offers three signature restaurants and two of the best beachfront bars in St. Pete, and it’s only a 14-minute drive from the shops of John’s Pass Village and Boardwalk.
There are a limited number of rooms reserved for this event, so don't delay in booking yours. Mention the Tampa Bay Ukulele Getaway when calling to reserve your room.
Tickets go on sale July 1st at 12:00 Midnight.
Buy them here.
Rooms go fast. Book now to reserve yours. Your credit card information will be taken, but you won't be charged until you check in.
Overlooking the sparkling white sands of St. Pete Beach, Sirata Beach Resort invites you to sit back, relax, and enjoy an array of gulfside activities.
This family-friendly St. Pete resort offers a collection of comfortable guest rooms and suites with welcoming amenities and stunning water views and includes three swimming pools, a fitness center, and Wi-Fi access, among others. This casual beachfront resort also offers three signature restaurants and two of the best beachfront bars in St. Pete, and it’s only a 14-minute drive from the shops of John’s Pass Village and Boardwalk.
There are a limited number of rooms reserved for this event, so don't delay in booking yours. Mention the Tampa Bay Ukulele Getaway when calling to reserve your room.
Tickets go on sale July 1st at 12:00 Midnight.
Buy them here.
Sirata Beach Resort-St. Petersburg Beach
5300 Gulf Blvd,
St Pete Beach, FL 33706
Book online (link) or call: (727) 897-5200
5300 Gulf Blvd,
St Pete Beach, FL 33706
Book online (link) or call: (727) 897-5200