Funding hits the right chord

The Liverpool Ukulele Ceilidh Society is playing a pretty tune, after getting $3,000 from the Federal Government on Oct. 14.

The announcement was made at the Astor Theatre by South Shore - St. Margaret’s MP Gerald Keddy. “The Government of Canada is proud to support the 3rd International Ukulele Ceilidh,” said Keddy. “By partnering with the Liverpool Ukulele Ceilidh Society we can assist them in providing opportunities for residents and visitors to learn about the ukulele through workshops that cover all skill levels as well as three evenings of concerts.”

Keddy also took time to thank all those involved with the Ceilidh, for their efforts to build the culture of the community. “It’s not about the speeches or the MP coming down here to present some dollars. It’s about your hard work, and all that goes on behind the scenes.”

Martin Hilliard, Chair of the Liverpool Ukulele Ceilidh Society, spoke as well, thanking Keddy for the funding. "The community of Liverpool hosts many festivals which, without government funding, would not necessarily come to fruition. We are very appreciative of this funding which will greatly aid us in ensuring that our 3rd International Ukulele Ceilidh is a success, ” said Martin Hilliard, Chair of the Liverpool Ukulele Ceilidh Society. “This support provides us with the opportunity to highlight our local ukulele groups and to encourage international performers to share their talents with Ceilidh attendees and local Nova Scotians. It also affords us the opportunity to offer high-quality workshops and outstanding concerts. Our Ukulele Ceilidh enriches the lives of local residents and attracts uke lovers from around the world to our beautiful community."

Hilliard also had high praises for one member for the Ceilidh committee. “If there was one person we could thank, it would be Sandra Obritsch.”

Martin said she is almost single handedly responsible for bringing the Ceilidh to the South Shore.

Hilliard said that even thought the festival is only in its third year there is lots to boast about. “We’ve heard from our participants that this is the best ukulele festival in the world, and they are all over the world.”

The funding is part of the Building Communities through Arts and Heritage program, which started in 2007. The aim of the program is to support local activities that present arts and culture, and celebrated local history and heritage.

nmoase@theadvance.ca