THE BRANTFORD UKULELE SOCIETY is a not-for-profit organization run by a passionate group of volunteers and ukulele players who love sharing the joy the ukulele brings. The Society’s vision is to create a welcoming hub for ukulele enthusiasts in Brantford-Brant, where players of all levels can connect, learn, and grow together. We’re excited to host Brantford’s first Ukulele Festival on July 19, 2025, along with offering group jams, seminars, and retreats in the future. We are determined to provide an environment in which people can learn to play the ukulele and opportunities for people to improve their playing skills. Our mission is to engage in any activity that will lead us to our vision. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just picking up a uke for the first time, we invite you to join us in celebrating music, friendship, and community.
Meet the Execs
President, Co-Chair and Founder of the Brantford Ukulele Society. She moved to Ontario from Quebec City in 1994, and has been a Brantford resident since 2001. Gen is a dedicated ukulele musician and instructor for over a decade and is passionate about sharing the joy of ukulele music through teaching and community outreach through the Bell City Strummers. She is a registered James Hill Ukulele Initiative Level 3 Instructor, a section leader with The Ukulele Orchestra of Toronto and Ukehead #62.
Co-Chair of the Brantford Ukulele Festival and co-leader of the Bell City Strummers, now in their 3rd season. Catherine is a Level 3 instructor with the James Hill Ukulele Initiative, and a proud Ukehead. She plays with the Royal City Ukulele Ensemble and the Ukulele Orchestra of Toronto. When not playing ukulele, Catherine is teaching yoga at two local studios.
Catherine Gorecki
Mark was the only one of four siblings who did not learn to play a musical instrument. Instead he did a little of the lights and sound for his buddies' high school rock band. Years later he picked up his first ukulele in November 2018. He is still learning how to play it. Mark has lived and worked in Brantford since 1993. He retired in 2018 and has remained active in the community volunteering with a number of local not-for-profit organizations.
Mark Simpson
Cheryl Amy
After teaching instrumental and vocal music for 19 years, Cheryl became an elementary school principal and in that capacity brought ukulele to her school. Since then, she has taught ukulele in Additional Qualification courses for teachers, in Arts workshops provided by the Grand Erie District School Board and volunteer classes at her church. Currently, she teaches ukulele to seniors in two different centres, one in Ancaster and one in Dundas.