Today’s show is all about the ukulele – possibly Northumberland’s most popular instrument along with the guitar and fiddle.

The episode is divided into three parts.

In the first, we talk to luthier and guitar player Paul Mason who, from his home in the North Tyne valley, has been making ukes for the past five years.

In the second part, singer-songwriter and ukulele teacher Ian Brown gives me an introductory lesson in playing the uke – and I warn those who believe that listening to music should be enjoyable to avert their ears.

Finally, we hear from singer-songwriter and keen uke advocate Penny Grennan on why she chooses this instrument above all others for performance, and we talk about the many different ukes she plays.

This is Part One.

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