Naoto Haruki

1.How long have you been playing?

More than 7 years

2. Why did you start playing ukulele?

The first time I started, I was forced to by my parents; I didn’t want to play. When I started though, I found out it was super fun and I wanted to continue because of this

3. What’s your favorite song to play?

12th Avenue or Pickleball Jam? Maybe Mission Impossible

4. How many hours a week do you practice?

Around an hour now because school is really busy. I used to practice more, around 2-3 hours before school became busy. I still find time to practice 2-3 hours per week during vacations

5. Do you have a favorite artist or band?

Not really

6. What is the best thing about the ukulele?

Performances!! Even if it’s to your own family members

7. What is your favorite color?

Cyan or orange

8. What is your favorite food?

Carbonara spaghetti 😋

9. Do you have any hobbies?

School is busy and I usually don’t have time, but maybe ukulele, karate, biochemistry

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

The best one word is: “Ukulele” Sorry I’m just kidding! I would say “sport” - Contrary to popular belief, playing can be pretty active

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

Twinkle twinkle little star, how I wonder what you are I remember my mom made me a youtube channel when I was younger to post my ukulele songs, which encouraged me further. It was called “Ukulele Dino” and after every song I would have a dinosaur toy roar at the camera. Songs I posted included Twinkle Twinkle Little Star, Mary Had a Little Lamb, New Hope Minor Jam, etc (The YouTube channel is deleted now though)

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

Alto sax, flute

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

Concert

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

Ukulele Hale has concerts in front of a big audience around 3-4 times per year. I used to be really scared to play, but nobody will criticize you for your mistakes! Just have fun! I twice played solo, which was a little scary but also fun.

15. Who or what inspires you to keep playing?

My mom, the YouTube Channel, Ms Gina, ukulele’s just fun

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

Any song with giraffe chords (like Bb). I remember Tokada used to be difficult but not anymore

17. Do you prefer playing solo or with others?

They both have pros and cons. By going solo, I can “make up” my own patterns and dynamics as I play and don’t have to worry about staying on beat with other people. However, you can only play one part as solo, meaning that the audience won’t be able to hear the FULL piece. As a group, the audience will be able to hear all parts of the song, but it could become less fun for the individual. I like both solo and group.

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

I think I’ve accomplished a lot with 8 years like being on Duke’s and learning an abundance of songs

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

No

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

ukulele?.”

Ukulele is super fun. I used to think it was a boring class, but once you start playing, you’ll see the true beauty of it.

— Naoto Haruki