Little musicians learn to play the ukulele at Vernon Area Public Library

Children laughed as their little hands played little ukuleles during "World Play Your Ukulele Day" on Tuesday at the Vernon Area Public Library.

Old Town School of Folk Music teacher and artist, Lanialoha Lee, worked with 10 children, ages 3 to 5, and their families and caregivers to teach them simple notes and hand positions as each student played familiar songs on their own ukuleles.

"They can start creating music all by themselves with or without a formal guidance music approach, and it's instant gratification. It really supports the idea of making music," Lee said. "They are so much fun, and they are really happy. I've never seen anyone holding a uke crying."

Lani also explained the history of the instrument in the Pacific Island culture.

"We liked it a lot. It's a lot of fun and a good introduction for music to kids. I wouldn't mind picking up a kid 'uke and give it a shot," Virgil Seribo of Buffalo Grove said as he helped his 4-year-old daughter, Gigi, play a ukulele.

The Lincolnshire library will continue the event Thursday with children making their own ukuleles out of cardboard during "Cardboard 'Ukulele Jam!". The event is for children, ages 3 to 5, from 10 to 11 a.m.