Educator Spotlight: The Ukulele as a Catalyst for Joy and Learning

At Kala, we believe the ukulele is more than just an instrument—it’s a bridge to creativity, a tool for emotional regulation, and a "shortcut to joy" in the classroom. We recently connected with three inspiring educators to discuss how they integrate the four-string wonder into their daily work.

The Multi-Instrumental Approach

Featuring Kathryn Selman & Stephen Selman
(East Mountain Studios)

Kathryn Selman is a singer-songwriter who first picked up the ukulele in her early 20s to find a more rhythmic way to accompany her songwriting. Stephen Selman, already deep into the guitar, found his first soprano uke in a music shop in Boston and reached a personal turning point after successfully mastering Tonight You Belong To Me. Today, they lead East Mountain Studios, where they recently partnered with the Be a Friend Project to help students record an album of "kindness songs" for peers in need of encouragement.

Q: How do you use the ukulele in your specific learning environment?

In our teaching studio, we prioritize playing together. The first thing we do is a timed improvised jam. It immediately helps clear the slate, and be present. I always find myself grabbing a ukulele to jam with them. It’s especially helpful with piano students to help them keep a steady rhythm as we work through a chord progression.” (Kathryn)

It’s an extremely cool instrument for younger kids who are drawn to strings. A young student (5-6) can have a much easier time getting a handle on a uke, and still learn the fundamentals of any string instrument. It’s a shortcut to some serious joy where even a 1/4 scale guitar or bass might still be a bit much.” (Stephen)

Q: What is the most rewarding part of teaching ukulele?

Music has helped me connect with others, find joy, be present, and get through challenging chapters of my life. I truly believe that sharing this language with others and giving them the skills to will help them do the same. Especially with songwriting. [It] is a habit, an artform and a practice that has countless benefits. Our mission is to enable our students to make music a lifelong source of joy, and the ukulele is a perfect match.” (Kathryn)

I want music to be a part of my students’ lives forever. Somewhere around 10 years ago I started focusing on songwriting as my preferred vehicle for teaching music… It never gets old watching a kid light up when they take this instrument they’ve barely started learning and create something new and entirely their own. That is magic.” (Stephen)

Q: What advice would you give to other educators looking to start a program?

Follow your student’s curiosity. Whether it’s a song from Wicked or a video game, Dolly Parton or Taylor Swift, a classical piece, or a song they’re writing, there are so many directions to go and elements to explore. For me it’s never just about notes on a page, it’s self expression and learning to think for yourself and trusting your own musical intuition.” (Kathryn)

Remember that we are playing music. If it’s starting to feel like a slog, switch it up! You’re allowed to push pause and introduce something new with grace and confidence. Keeping the interest and the fun as high as possible is critical.” (Stephen)

Keep up with the Selmans

You can follow Kathryn’s musical journey on Instagram and see the latest projects from East Mountain Studios on their website.

Music as a Tool for Development

Featuring Paul “Mr. Elephant” Oliphant
(Early Childhood Special Education)

Known to his students as "Mr. Elephant," Paul Oliphant’s "love story" with the instrument began when he picked one up during a college jazz fusion jam session. He now uses that passion to support students in specialized early childhood settings.

Q: How does the ukulele serve students in a Special Education setting?

In early childhood special education where I work, I use the ukulele’s calming tones to soothe kids who may feel dysregulated; motivate kids to clean up and share with each other; distract kids who, depending on the day, might want to overturn a box of Legos or untie another teacher’s shoes when they aren’t looking; invite kids to try the uke themselves and learn the meaning of “fast,” “soft,” “loud,” “quiet,” etc.; share a fun experience with their peers and familiar adults; or even accompany a book whose words I’ve turned into song (e.g., Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?). Ukulele is the perfect instrument for my job and, even after almost a decade on the job, I continue to learn new ways to utilize it!”

Q: What is your biggest motivator in doing music education?

My biggest motivator is simply my students. I mostly work with autistic 3-5-year-olds who have language delays, and seeing them learn how to communicate — often with the help of music — makes my job worth all the hard work.”

Q: What’s your top tip for fellow educators?

Never stop learning. Switch things up and try new activities and skills. Take breaks. Try to avoid taking work home with you. Collaborate with your friends and colleagues. And listen to Mr. Elephant, haha!”

Where to find Mr. Elephant

Keep up with Mr. Elephant on Instagram and explore his family-friendly music on his website. 

The Next Chord: Bringing Ukulele to Your Classroom

Whether it's used for technical music theory or emotional support, these teachers are helping the next generation find their voice.

Ready to bring the joy of ukulele to your classroom?