Lina Takabayashi

1.How long have you been playing?

I have been playing the ukulele for 6 years

2. Why did you start playing ukulele?

When I was 7, Honoka & Azita inspired me on youtube to play the ukulele so for my 7th Christmas I asked Santa for a ukulele

3. What’s your favorite song to play?

My favorite song to play is "Heaven on Thursday" by Heart and Soul

4. How many hours a week do you practice?

I practice at least 30 minutes a day but when I have time I practice over an hour or 1 hour, but it depends on my homework

5. Do you have a favorite artist or band?

My favorite artist that does ukulele is Jake Shimabukuro, Honoka, and my amazing instructor Jody Kamisato!

6. What is the best thing about the ukulele?

The best thing about the ukulele is that a simple song could make someone's day even happier

7. What is your favorite color?

My favorite color is either lavender or light blue

8. What is your favorite food?

My favorite food is definitely spicy ramen

9. Do you have any hobbies?

I love drawing, playing the guitar as well, and singing

10. If you could describe the ukulele in one word, what would it be?

I would describe the ukulele as "Unique"

11. What was the first song you learned to play on the ukulele?

The first song that I learned was "Twinkle Twinkle Little Star"

12. Do you play any other instruments besides the ukulele?

I play the guitar

13. What type of ukulele do you have (soprano, concert, tenor, baritone)?

I have multiple types of ukulele, but right now I mostly use the tenor Kida Ukulele from Japan

14. Have you ever performed in front of an audience? If so, what is it like?

Yes I have many times for contests, it feels really scary when it's your first time on stage because obviously a lot of people have their eyes on you but once you start playing I feel like I just relax and have fun.

15. Who or what inspires you to keep playing?

My instructor Jody Kamisato, my parents, and my friends

16. What’s the most challenging song you’ve learned?

The most challenging song I've ever learned is probably Tokada because the song does go really fast.

17. Do you prefer playing solo or with others?

I prefer playing solo but I also enjoy playing with other people

18. Do you have any achievements or proud moments (both musically) you’d like to share?

I have won the Dukes Ukes before in 2023 1st place in my category

19. Do you have a dream ukulele you’d like to own someday?

I would love to own a Kamaka HF-3 D41 Jake Shimabukuro Signature Edition Tenor or Seilen Ukulele

20. What advice would you give to someone who is interested in learning or playing the

ukulele?.”

I would say just enjoy the music and just keep practicing

— Lina Takabayashi