Ukulelians unite.

Folks who love the small instrument or have a slight interest got a chance to see what all the noise is about this past Saturday, Oct. 7, at the second annual Hickory Ridge Orchard Ukulele Festival just outside of Mexico.

The festival was organized by David Reetz of Mexico Music and featured performances from some of his music students of all ages. The festival also featured local talents like Scott Weber and Ukulelians from around the area including a club from Columbia.

The festival was held inside the pavilion on the grounds of Hickory Ridge which is quite the place to be this time of year. The Orchard store was open and there were also several activities for children including train rides and a corn maze.

Reetz told the Ledger the idea for the festival came from Hickory Ridge’s owner Brandt Schisler who was looking to start a bluegrass festival at the orchard. Reetz told Schisler he had been out of the scene for a few years but would try to help. Reetz thought about it and decided to pitch the idea of a Ukulele festival. 

“We were totally surprised with all the people who came,” Reetz said. “We knew we had to do another one.”

This year’s show started with a performance by Reetz and his family followed by a performance by his students. Festival Goers were treated to a performance by the Columbia Ukulele Fight Club and afterward, the stage turned into an open play-along jam. Other performances included the Ukulele Festival Band, Emily Hobbs, and Bob Belcher and Friends. The day ended with a workshop.

Reetz said there are plans for a festival next year and he would like to step up the show and get some bigger names.

“I’m trying to help people connect with music,” Reetz said.