When people first walk into Burnie Brae's Ukulele Group, instructor Chrissy often hears the same thing.

"I've never played an instrument before."

"I'm too old to learn."

"I don't have a musical bone in my body."

The ukulele is one of the easiest instruments to learn. With only four strings and many songs requiring just one, two or three chords, beginners are often amazed at how quickly they're playing recognisable tunes.

"The thing that surprises people most is that they can actually make music with no previous experience," Chrissy says.

Every new member receives a beginner's pack filled with the basics and easy songs to practise at home. For anyone feeling a little unsure, Chrissy is always happy to spend extra time before the weekly jam sessions to help build confidence.

"It's all about helping people get started."

More Than Music

But while learning an instrument is rewarding, it's not the only reason people keep coming back.

"What people really love is meeting new friends and sharing a common interest," Chrissy says. "Everyone helps each other."

The group has built a wonderful sense of community, with members getting together each week to play, laugh and encourage one another. Many also enjoy the regular jam sessions, with some even meeting twice a week to keep the music going.

Playing the ukulele also offers benefits beyond the music. Learning chords, practising different strumming patterns and playing along with others helps keep the mind active, while improving coordination and exercising memory.

A Passion for Helping Others

Chrissy's own musical journey began at just two years old, learning the piano before later taking up the guitar. But after arthritis made guitar difficult to play, she discovered the ukulele.

"It was much kinder on my hands."

Today, she's passionate about helping others discover that same joy.

"I love helping people who might otherwise feel isolated find a new, rewarding skill," she says. "It doesn't matter how good – or how badly – you play."

Some of her proudest moments come from watching members achieve things they never thought possible.

"So many people tell me they never imagined they'd learn an instrument later in life," she says. "Then before long, they're proudly playing for their family or even performing on stage."

Watching that confidence grow is what Chrissy loves most.

"I personally love hearing their stories of achievement," she says. "I've also made many new friends myself."

Why Not Give It a Go?

Whether your goal is to learn a new skill, keep your brain active, meet new people or simply have a lot of fun, the Burnie Brae Ukulele Group welcomes everyone.

After all, you're never too old to learn your first chord and you might just discover a new passion along the way.