A company hopes to add a bit of diversity to the local music scene by starting a ukulele orchestra.

With the new-folk movement bringing the instrument back into the spotlight, and ukulele-friendly bands like King Blues and Mumford and Sons finding worldwide success, staff at The Musician’s Centre on Russell Street, Keighley, decided to start the new group.

They will unveil the orchestra on Monday, and have invited all ukulele players in the area to join in. They hope to build an orchestra of over 15 people with the plan of performing local gigs and have plenty of fun doing it.

Marie Harris, one of the centre’s ukulele tutors, said: “This is a really fun way to play, and, if you want, sing, some great modern songs. As well as being fun, the orchestra should test experienced players as well as tutor beginners and help guide people into playing this happy little instrument.”

Weekly ukulele classes for beginners start tomorrow at 5.30pm with the full orchestra rehearsing Mondays at 5.30pm from the 29th. For more details contact (01535) 603136 or visit musicianscentre.com.