‘Without U, it’s just kulele’: Expressions of leisure and ‘ohana in an intergenerational ukulele club

The purpose of this intrinsic case study was to examine the musical and social underpinnings of the Dallas Ukulele Headquarters (DUH). Specifically, this research explored the impetus and evolution of DUH, the appeal of ukulele culture as expressed by club members and the members’ perceived sense of identity within a diverse community group. Data were collected over a seven-month period through participant observations, interviews with six participants, photography and e-mail correspondence. Findings revealed that DUH served as an inclusive and accepting family (‘ohana), which engendered a sense of nostalgia and therapeutic value of music among members. While the Internet most likely served as the conduit that allowed DUH to flourish, rehearsal venues were not always fulfilling due to growing membership in limited spaces. Future considerations for research include the potential in facilitating ‘ohana in community music settings, the therapeutic attributes of the ukulele and the longevity of the current ukulele renaissance.