In her song “Ukulele Anthem,” musician Amanda Palmer touts the healing powers of the four-stringed instrument, singing, “You’ll minimize some stranger’s sadness / With a piece of wood and plastic / Holy fuck it’s so fantastic, playing ukulele.” An entire festival dedicated to the miniature guitar takes place Friday evening and all day Saturday. Hardcore uke enthusiasts follow the music to workshops, jam sessions, an open mic and two concerts. Performers include Ben Carr, Veronica Stevens, Bernadette McMahon, the Dirty Hillers, and headliners Sarah Maisel and Craig Chee (both pictured).
