Finding Their Rhythm: Fourth Graders Learn Ukulele at Peck

At The Peck School, fourth-grade students are finding their rhythm—literally!—in music teacher Lisa Wichman's class, where they’re learning to play the ukulele as part of the Lower School music curriculum. The fourth-grade ukulele program, which begins each January, offers students an approachable way to build musical skills while having a ton of fun along the way!

Students start by learning the basics: how to hold the ukulele, strum, and play a single chord. As their confidence and technique grow, they begin playing along with popular songs they recognize, such as “Best Day of My Life” by American Authors. These familiar tunes help students connect emotionally with the music and feel a sense of pride in their progress.

“The ukulele is such a fantastic instrument for young learners,” said Lower School Music Teacher Lisa Wichman. “It’s small, manageable, and gives kids immediate success. And even better—it’s something they’re inspired to continue practicing at home.”

And practice they do! Some students are so motivated that they’ve begun coming in during recess and free periods to hone their skills. Their excitement has even led to live performances at school assemblies—both fourth grade classes serenaded their classmates as they entered and exited last week’s Lower School Assembly, putting their ukulele skills on display.

This growing confidence will be on display during a Spring Sing performance, where a group of students will showcase their skills alongside classmates on other instruments like xylophones and drums. And to top it off, the year ends with the beloved “Ukulele Jam”—an outdoor concert on the music patio where the entire fourth grade shares their joyful progress with the school community.