THE Salisbury Ukulele Band is getting ready for the new year ahead and is inviting people to have a go.

A new class of beginners will be starting from January 18.

There will be ukuleles available at the class for those wanting to try it out.

New beginners will learn the basics and play through familiar songs.

The group also caters for more experienced players and this term they will be learning a range of techniques to improve their playing.

A spokesman for the group said: "A new class of beginners will be starting in January, so you can make it your new year resolution to learn to play.

"The ukulele is much more than a humble instrument — it is a passport for everyone to the world of music. If you have ever wanted to play in a band or orchestra, or simply for your own pleasure, but never got round to it, or have not played since childhood, the ukulele offers a way into music.

"It is simple to learn, easy to play and cheap to buy. Meeting and learning in a group is much more fun than sitting alone at home and the end result is better too when the group plays and sings together. In fact the social side of meeting up weekly is as important as playing the music."

The Salisbury Ukulele Band had a busy Christmas season playing at St Thomas' Christmas Tree Festival and in the bandstand at the Christmas market.

Their eclectic mix of popular Christmas songs had visitors and bystanders singing along.

The band has anything from 30 to over 40 players, including both experienced musicians and complete novices.

The Salisbury Ukulele Band meets every Monday afternoon in term-time at Salisbury Arts Centre under the instruction experienced musician and ukulele teacher Robin Walter.

The beginner class meets from 2pm to 2.45pm with the intermediate class taking place from 2.45pm to 4pm.

For more information go to theukeshack.co.uk or contact Robin Walter by calling 07824 552414 or emailing robinhdwalter@gmail.com