Big Changes For Me And Ukulele Wales - Rachel's Rambles #23

Big Changes For Me And Ukulele Wales - Rachel's Rambles #23
I have been wanting to make this video for a while but had to wait to have the process made official. Lot's about to happen to me personally and hopefully have a really positive impact here on Ukulele Wales!
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Big Changes For Me And Ukulele Wales - Rachel's Rambles #23
00:00 Intro to Big Changes For Me And Ukulele Wales
00:54 Why am I leaving my job and basically making myself unemplyed?
05:58 The plans so far..........
07:22 Do you want bass ukulele lessons?
08:41 Workshops possibly in the future
09:36 Building up KZbin, other online incomes and definitely NOT retiring
12:15 Rachel's Rambles #23 News and upcoming events.
14:32 Overview of do ukulele groups need bass and the rambles.
Website: ukulele.wales/
T-Shirts & Merch: www.redbubble....
Ukulalien Play Along Channel: / ukulaliensukuleleclub

[@lloydbatten1693]

Rachel your work is so highly valued around the world. You have touched so many lives through music. I can assure you there is life away from the classroom.

[@soja0271]

Dearest Rachel, my heart goes out to you. I quit teaching ( languages) with 2 colleagues several years ago now. Your health matters most, you only have 1 and 1 life. I am so glad I did. My very best wishes to you. I am looking forward to seeing your next adventures.

[@mixedstaples8030]

Solidarity Rachel, I'm an instrumental teacher as well and while I can't get into details am currently going through something similar. I love your work, and you're gonna smash whatever comes next!

[@titichartay7216]

As someone who has had to deal with both heart & mental health issues truly emphasize. A pity that schools don't priortise music - it is a proven way for children to improve their math skills & overall cognitive abilities not to mention boosting confidence. Sure you will regain your bounce when you regain your joy. Your creativity will repay ! Take care & pats to your fur babies. Musicians rock ! Titi & Harpo woof !❤

[@user-ix4rh7ee1j]

Rachel so glad ive found this site youre amazing, my very best wishes to your new adventure and project ideas. best wishes, Phil

[@luizatsilala7426]

Great news Rachel 😊 We should leave behind the things that add stress to our life. I wish you the very best!

[@IanOS-UK]

I am sure this is really really good news for you and for all of us, too! Take care of yourself - pace yourself and remember the advice we are all given about boom and bust. You have such a broad selection of interests and gifts - Take it steady and take care - Thank you for all that you bring your various audiences and students! :)

[@shelleywalters2049]

Mrs webley I’m going to miss you sooo much I hope you get better as life goes on and I hope your happy when you leave, although my class 7X might cry and be upset all that matters is that your happy with your decision I’m sorry I didn’t realise what you were going through you are the best teacher ever and you’re my favourite teacher and I’m so glad to have had this chance to be with you and thank you for being there and teaching me thank you ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤ (btw this is Millie on my mums account)

[@-Gacha_Demon-67]

MILLE!??? OMG HI ITS LILLI!! :000

[@shelleywalters2049]

@@-Gacha_Demon-67 HIIIIII LILLI

[@bonniedavidson936]

Rachel. Good decision! I had similar issues. Retired at 60 years old. My health greatly improved. I love retirement !!!

[@nicholasgeigle9240]

Bass or ukulele workshops on Zoom or Patreon would be amazing! I definitely check into those. Best wishes on your retirement!

[@MyOgrady]

Bless you Rachel, hope everything turns out for you, best music teacher I know, see you at Cheltenham

[@marcsmith1134]

Only just caught up with your news Rachel. Don't worry about not being sure of your "plan". Spike Milligan famously said "If you haven't got a plan, nothing can go wrong". Best of luck with your endeavours. Many of us on here really enjoy your videos - so I hope that can continue. Most of all, take good care of yourself, and let us know how you're doing.

[@UkuleleWales]

Thanks Marc and love the Spike Milligan quote!

[@davidpickett]

Hey Rachel, I hope it all works out for you, (sure it will!) I have found your KZbin content invaluable to my learning. Important to look after yourself.

[@bonniedavidson936]

You will be happier in your new endeavors !

[@ifatizer7782]

Thank you for sharing and your honesty so brave. Well done for making the change😊

[@nicolachambers3840]

Good luck Rachel, I'm sure you'll do brilliantly! I was made redundant as a secondary head of music 10 years ago. It was the best thing that ever happened to me! I now work for a music service and love teaching music to enthusiastic primary school kids! X

[@nickwgash3760]

Been there, seen it, done it.....with your wonderful skills you have a happy future. It will take time just to destress but it will happen. All the best.

[@juliap.1007]

One door closes but many more open for you Rachel! You get a chance to do what you do best and also enjoy doing! Your new life starts as soon as school is over and I'm sure it's going to be good.

[@PaulMansellukulele]

All the best for the future Rachel !

[@peterbradley4391]

What a lovely heartfelt video, it just goes to show you never know what can happen in life even when things are going well, its brilliant to see you are looking forward to a new adventure and i wish you all the very best in whatever you do; i am really looking forward to some more new videos coming soon. Look after yourself ♥

[@deniseforbes2332]

Wishing you the best. I’m sorry it’s all too much, but hoping you will be more fulfilled and in a better space in your new endeavors.

[@marybikes8470]

As I approach my retirement date I too have found myself with a dark cloud hovering overhead. I'm glad you've worked out a plan or several plans to pull you through. I look forward to being with you here as you go full force into the future!

[@UkuleleWales]

Thanks Mary 😊

[@karisumner4709]

Rachel, best of luck on your journey forward. I wasn’t a teacher but the stress at my job before I retired was affecting me in many ways. You very recently answered my question on what to look for in a used U-Bass, thank you. I’ve haven’t gone to look yet, I have no clue how to actually play one. Depending on the platform I might be interested in taking a U-Bass course from you. Very beginner stuff, what to buy, how to play…etc. Cheers from CA

[@50mantravelling52]

Hi Rachel just to wish you all the best in whatever you decide to do. I know exactly how you feel as after several redundancies due to company closures having been a contracts manager at age 44 I had had enough. Very nervously I decided to put my future in my own hands and can honestly say the following years until retirement at age 68 were the best working years of my life and although stressful at times it was a different kind of stress (better) than working for employers. I feel with your vast knowledge of music and the other skills you have you have a much brighter future in-store. 👋

[@leticiaallen2800]

Blessings to you and your future. I retired early for same issues of stress, etc. Just watched your first and second beginner bass ukulele lessons. It encouraged me to make the jump and buy a bass ukulele. I’m currently in a ukulele group and play soprano and concert. I’m in Payson, Az and will continue to watch you. Keep playing!

[@UkuleleWales]

So glad to hear you are going to try bass too.

[@e.castlerock8454]

Good luck to you in your future endeavors! Thank you for all your tutorials. Take care of your health first and foremost.

[@AngelaADD]

Thanks for sharing this information. It is also very important. I’m wishing you all the best on a bride future future ahead!

[@elainerose1334]

Wishing you all the best with your plans. You have to do what’s right for you. Xx

[@judih.8754]

Dear Rachel, I am sorry to hear of the stress in your life but I am heartened that you sought out help. Taking care of ourselves is our number one job. While this is a scary time of uncertainty for you, it is also a time where you can question everything and write a fresh new plan that suits your life going forward. I trust you will do well. I thoroughly enjoy your videos and hope the growth of your channels might provide a small bit of income. I have seen that you are talented and energetic so I know you will do fine. Hugs!!

[@UkuleleWales]

Thanks Judi 🥰

[@MsSwap2009]

Dearest Rachel, take care. I am a same age, and faced a burn out. For me art helps, not just music, but different kind of art. Also i push myself to swill twice a week. Water is healer and bring us back to childhood. Please note that your approach to YT posts is excellent. Some summer retreats might be interested for your work.

[@Seymourphotos]

All the very best Rachel with all your plans for the future, Im sure your be so busy. Take care, see you in Cheltenham.

[@joeydrew4847]

I live in Bristol.. took up uke after chemo finished. You were suggested to me. I am so glad I looked you up. Thank you for all your fabulous videos and guidance. I wish I lived in Wales. Whatever you do from now on.. it will be you, Rachel.. it will be great x

[@UkuleleWales]

Thanks Jo and I am so glad to be helping. Maybe one day come along to one of our South Wales uke events. 🤞

[@t.g.998]

Thank you for sharing your personal story. This month is mental health month hear in Ontario Canada. I can relate to your story and I know I have the same symptoms. During my coming two week vacation in July I hope I can come to a decision as to my next life steps. Thanks once again.

[@bonniedavidson936]

Thanks!

[@UkuleleWales]

Thanks Bonnie, you are a star!

[@bonniedavidson936]

@@UkuleleWales Aww. Thanks. But you are the Star !!

[@joeydrew4847]

On my bucket list x

[@monfournier9111]

I love the way you teach, especially the u bass that is new to me.I wish you the very best. Please take good care of yourself.

[@UkuleleWales]

Thank you, I will

[@clivehunte3026]

Good luck Rachel, I know that senario very well, I did one to one bass lessons and music production in High School back in the early 2000s and got dumped , the head of music was crying while telling me the bad news, but they had no choice. I hope things work out for you 🙏🏾 💜

[@marniecunningham3225]

Yes I'm up for online Bass lessons please and fantastic. I teach uke and would love to add bass to the ensemble. Sent an email. Whoopi!!😎

[@UkuleleWales]

Thanks Marnie 😊

[@jillgeary1313]

Congratulations on following new dreams!!

[@ludwigvanzappa9548]

I send you my best vibes, Rachel! Back to your true nature can only be a good move!

[@croxleywickerman8801]

All the very best to you. See you at Shrewfest. Well done for taking control and looking forward to a great future. Defo take some bass Uke lessons from you. Mark from the Pandemic Pluckers.

[@UkuleleWales]

Thanks Mark and yes, looking forward to seeing you again at Shrewkfest!

[@juliehall3331]

Wow, Rachel! I’m very excited for you with all that’s coming your way, and always wish you the very best!! ❤

[@ianwalker682]

How exciting!! Big changes for big rewards. I look forward to seeing all of these positive changes coming your way.

[@mishellerickson7526]

Exciting! Would love to sign up for uke bass lessons. Being self employed is the best!

[@UkuleleWales]

Hi Michelle, can you send a quick email to [e-mail] so I can add you to the list. Thanks

[@sharronbdavies]

The change in you is obvious - you are glowing! A difficult decision, but so much the right one for you. Maybe we can get a meet up sorted? Xx

[@UkuleleWales]

Thanks Sha and yes, a meet up would be lush! xx

[@user-kl8jq5rv4o]

I am very excited for you!! I h ut st started bass 5 months ago and have done your lessons I can't get enough . I had no music background and am 62 but having a blast with it. I would certainly be interested in leasons when you get ready for that. Again good luck on your new adventure.

[@UkuleleWales]

Hi, can you send a quick email to [e-mail] so I can add you to the list for further information. Thanks

[@carole-385]

You are an amazing teacher! You’ve helped so many people to learn and improve their ukulele playing. I left the classroom a few years ago and now sleep at night. Good luck with your new adventures!

[@SbvIflex]

i am so glad you were able to get help for this. thanks for you sharing this. I know i needed to hear this today.

[@LilyMarsWrites]

This sounds like a great decision for you! Definitely a good move for your health. I was just telling one of the members of my ukulele group about you last week as she's thinking about learning to play bass, so I'll make sure she sees this.

[@UkuleleWales]

Thanks

[@markperry222]

3 months after I stopped teaching, I realized that my insomnia had gone. So look forward to that after you retire. Good luck with the future.

[@user-hi3mk3vy4b]

You are simply amazing. On my worst days in this evolving world of teaching, I can't wait to get to your new videos. Your content is a balm for me. Thank-you for building this community like no one else has.

[@UkuleleWales]

Thank You for such a lovely comment.

[@stevesstrings5243]

Rachel, I wish you all the best of luck with your new endeavors. Taking care of yourself is clearly a priority. I applaud you for your bravery to do what you need to do!

[@alanm8431]

Teaching music is a calling. Gotta follow your heart.

[@Rwjudy48]

Big changes ahead - good changes 🤞

[@JuliaFawcett]

It is so important to look after yourself and to enjoy your life. It is so precious. We rely so heavily on your fabulous output. Online bass workshops would be brilliant for me as I live on the east coast. ❤❤❤ 15:57

[@sadie771]

Sounds like you made the right decision. It’s so important to take care of your mental and physical health. So many opportunities ahead for you now - sounds like you’re headed in the right direction! Best of luck!

[@judynpeterjones3307]

Well done Rachel, look after your health, I took retirement at 50 and have had 26 excellent stress free years doing what I want to do!

[@nicolajenkinson4325]

Sending you very best wishes. As a former head who left teaching for my own mental health, I totally empathise! Well done you. You're a skilled and talented lady with a great future ahead. ❤

[@yukihyostar]

Hi Rachel. Another ex-teacher here. I taught English in Japan for 20 years, a job I loved for the first 10 years, but after that it went slowly downhill as stress, anxiety & depression caught up with me. I was advised to give it away back in 2011, and started to pursue my passion for both photography (which I'd done for many years in Australia before moving to Japan), and music. I was 63 when I finally left school, and had spent 48 years on guitar up until then. I moved to Bass after returning home in 2018, and am now venturing into 6 string bass guitar. After discovering your channel, I became fascinated by the new FLIGHT mini bass (the Ocean Blue one). I intend to buy one soon, and am scouring the Net for the best flatwounds for it. After all this ramble, I have a question for you.....where did you find that lovely little guitar lamp often seen behind you that alternates in colour? I'd love one :). Good luck with everything, and thanks for your smashing channel. Steve.

[@UkuleleWales]

Loved reading your comment Steve, Thanks. The Kala flatwounds do fit the Flight and you can get them from Strings By Mail. The LED light is on Amazon.

[@Teeum5]

Hello Rachel, I can totally understand what you are talking about as I am in a similar situation and finish school by the end of july as well. There are many thoughts about money for me as well and there I think you are in a good situation as a music teacher. I wish you all the best. 🍀 Rici

[@UkuleleWales]

Thanks for sharing Rici and I hope it all goes well for you too.

[@juderandall703]

We're all here for you, Rach 😊 💯 % support from us all. Lots more ukulele adventures afoot methinks! 🎶🎤😁❤ xx

[@shirld1946]

There are many of us here that really care for you and wish you the best. I can relate to much of what you have been going through and i certainly respect the choices you've made to change your life for the better. And as so many have already said in the comments, make sure to take care of yourself.

[@UkuleleWales]

Thanks Shirl, means a lot!

[@despeed]

Good luck. I'm sure that you'll succeed at whatever you do. Less & less music lessons in school curriculums seems to be happening all over the country. I wonder why? When I was at a boys High School, in Cardiff late 60's, we took 8 or 9 GCSE's one of which was music & there were as many music lessons in the timetable as any other subject. Cheers

[@UkuleleWales]

Thanks Des, and yes, such a shame what is happening to music lessons at the moment!

[@christopherjones9419]

Take care Rach- i'm positive that you're on the verge of awesome things.You've done the right thing in looking after your health.You're so highly thought of by everyone who knows you. I learnt loads from you back in the days when you were teaching bass.Good things do happen to good people!

[@margaretshepherd9983]

You are doing the right thing for you Rachel enjoy many years of doing what you want to do .xx

[@spinnersue17]

So sorry you had to go through that Rachel. I can sympathise as ended up in that position when I worked as a Teaching Assistant and ended up off sick for nearly six months. I'm pleased you are now getting an opportunity to get back into what you love doing most and wish you all the very best xxx

[@marilyngalbally9233]

Everything happens for a reason Rachel, and usually for the better.So glad your health is being "sorted".Time now to enjoy the moment,minus the stress.Guid luck and God Bless.Thanks to you,I love my bass-- and baritone plus the GCEA's.All the best from Scotland.Don't take on too much!

[@claireroberts8881]

Best of luck Rach xx

[@UkuleleWales]

Thanks Claire x

[@rosiem1458]

I'm same age as you and a self employed guitar teacher. It's scary at first, but wonderful being your own boss. Good luck to you whatever comes your way. You're a fabulous inspiration to everyone that watches your videos. I especially loved the show us your ukes ones, fascinating stuff! Xx

[@rogerhummerston8361]

Hi Rachel, sorry to hear about your school work changing and that you have ended doing less and less music which you obviously love, now a whole new life is opening up before you, go and grab it with both hands and enjoy the ride. Hopefully we can have a chat at Shrewkfest in August, until then have fun.

[@UkuleleWales]

Thanks Roger and yes, looking forward to catching up with you at Shrewkfest.

[@BlessYourHeart254]

Take care of YOU! My DIL is a teacher, and I have nothing but love to teachers ❤ I hope to see you still on KZbin but understand if you need rest.

[@UkuleleWales]

Thanks and plenty of plans for more KZbin 😊

[@theurtleproject]

you are doing the right thing! I have enjoyed your videos for years now…looking forward to many more years

[@CornishCockney]

Best wishes to you Rachel. I too struggled with my employer for several years; tried redundancy (after over 40 years) and they wouldn't entertain it. Eventually could afford to retire at 64, one year early, and 10 years down the line I wished I'd gone sooner. Hope all your plans work out for you.

[@beverlymichael5830]

Wishing you all the best and happiness in your new endeavors. Will be watching for any new videos.

[@dougirvine6978]

Good luck with your new ventures. My wife was a drama teacher and went through a very similar experience. She took early retirement and has been really happy since leaving school. You have to look after yourself. 🙂

[@TrevorWeekes-ch9su]

Well done Rachel it will work out OK. I was made redundant many years ago and as a result started my own businesses. Being made redundant was the best day of my life.

[@chrislewis2754]

Good luck with everything Rachel. See you in Shrewkfest.

[@UkuleleWales]

Thanks Chris and yes, very much looking forward to seeing you at Shrewkfest 😎

[@johnwickings1674]

Hi Rachel all the best for the future, I'm 77yrs young found you during lockdown , I was inspired by your KZbin channel and purchased my first musical instrument a ukulele, I have enjoyed playing along to them, which has helped me meet a great group of people, moving on through your bass sessions I have purchased a Kala solid body bass and have started your bass lessons, big learning curve for me, but you are helping me learn another instrument, I would be interested lessons depending on costs etc, all the best John

[@UkuleleWales]

Hi John, can you send a quick email to [e-mail] so I can add you to the list for further information. Thanks

[@BobSapey]

Best of luck for the future Rachel. I took early retirement from university teaching 11 years ago and have never regretted it. I think big changes can be very refreshing. Another small festival is Uke-a-Bay at Colwyn Bay on 9-10 August.

[@UkuleleWales]

Thanks Bob. I have spotted the Uke-A-Bay but can’t make it this year, maybe next year?

[@rebeccamyers7483]

Come to Denver Ukulele Festival next spring. I think LA uke festival is in the fall.

[@UkuleleWales]

Maybe one day Rebecca. 😊

[@ProbablyTheBestUkuleleDadEver]

Hope to see you at Shrewkfest, missed you last year through a badly planned holiday on my part 😂

[@UkuleleWales]

That would be cool!

[@TimoSund]

Online bass class sounds interesting

[@bridgettereynolds3632]

Hi Rachael it must have been a big decision to make BUT if a job is causing you stress and you’re not getting any satisfaction from it then it’s time to walk away. Your health is more important. Good luck in your new ventures lots for you to look forward to now. 👍🏻🎸😊

[@SaxeGrove]

Sorry to hear this. I will probably not opt for one-to-one lessons, as I have not benefitted from live lessons previously (used to play flute). If you make on-line, asynchronous, courses in bass ukulele, I may buy into this. These can be themed, like rockabilly, traditional etc. I have done your walking bass lessons, but not with much use, as my band tends to do 3/4 and 4/4 simple stuff using only root and fifth. Anyway, if you need feedback or input, just say so. Best of luck with the future. Cheers Mort from Denmark, where there are absolutely NO ukulele festivals

[@UkuleleWales]

Thanks Mort, such a shame there are no ukulele festivals in Denmark. Maybe you and 4stringboy should think about starting one.

[@WrenBull]

Hi Rachel, Just caught up on your latest ramble and having gone through work related mental health issues I can totally empathise with how you've been feeling. It's always been music that gets me through and hopefully the same is for you. I'm very interested in your potential for bass Uke lessons and/or workshops - I've got a bass Uke and have followed some of your videos but I'd be really interested in having some lessons if you decide to go down that route. (I did try emailing but it kept bouncing back for some reason). Hope to see you at Cheltenham in July and that everything goes well for you.

[@UkuleleWales]

Hi Wren, not sure if there was an issue with emails, if possible can you try again but I will add you to the list and try to contact you when I am giving out info about lessons. Thanks

[@philcharlesworth3542]

I'm sure that you'll be surprised at the opportunities that present themselves. I 'retired' 7 years ago and have never been so busy! Move on and take some time to enjoy the things you love.

[@Rwjudy48]

Rachel, maybe a short Zoom course aimed at beginning bassists playing with uke groups. Focus on rhythm, root notes for starters, root-5th-octave later, etc.

[@4stringboy]

Hey Rachel, I’m sorry mate that sounds like a proper ordeal - the best thing I ever did was quit teaching as a lecturer (zero hour contracts rule) and start private teaching/my own thing instead. I’m sure you’ll be sorted, but if you need anything to chat about just holla ❤

[@UkuleleWales]

Cheers Sammy, yes I’m sure I be having a chat with you about “things” in Cheltenham. Can’t wait! 😊

[@docrose1000]

I have tried to email you and am having issues trying to get the email sent at gmail!! Will go back and recheck! I so want to be on your list of potential private students. You are absolutely the best!!

[@UkuleleWales]

Sorry to hear you have had email issues. If you can try again I will check all my folders but I'll add you to my list so when I give out further info I can let you know, even if it's on here. Thanks

[@oldmanzen6682]

Congrats on the retirement and good luck with the new business plans!

[@kaycawley8349]

Hi Rachel I wish you all the best in your new endeavours have you thought of doing some courses on Udemy. I have purchased guitar courses from there. Just a thought. 🤩

[@patjoyner512]

Do you ever come to the United States?

[@UkuleleWales]

I haven’t yet but who knows………

[@TheQuietpanda]

the year that i have left in school will be realy weird without ukulele after school on wensday :( we will miss you - and if others dont then i will :*(- but i dont blame you for leaving your job because music is the job you singhed up for and they was makeing you do RE i hope it goes well

[@UkuleleWales]

Thank You J 😊

[@cathyfrahme9677]

It is a shame that music and art are usually the first things cut here in United States schools as well. Did they have you teaching other subjects? Good for you for moving on and doing what is best for you.

[@UkuleleWales]

Yes, unfortunately I was teaching other subjects more than teaching music which is why I've had to stop. Thanks Cathy, hope you are keeping well.

[@leticiaallen2800]

I’m enjoying your bass ukulele lessons. What do recommend for a drum machine for background beats?

[@UkuleleWales]

There are a number of drum / rhthym machines that can be used which will need to be plugged into an amp.Also there are now pedals that have drum machines built in and work great. Other options, you can use drum / rhythm apps for beats or even make your own using something Garageband on an iPad. Hope this helps.

[@SueSanderson-m4q]

I tried to join your waiting list for Ubass lessons but email address not recognised

[@anorak211]

Hi, the problem with the Cheltenham festival is that its £80 even if you can only go for one day! No day tickets available, I think it's a RIip off . . . Sorry

[@UkuleleWales]

I think has said that they may look at day tickets in the future.

[@alanyarwood5369]

Would love to learn bass uke. I play uke at the moment and our group are after a bass player. What would you recommend recommend i buy to start your course. I love the summer strum. I use to play with Wirral Ukulele Fanatics and they where involved in the very first event.

[@UkuleleWales]

Hi Alan, bass uke really is great fun. There is a wide selection available now including electro acoustic with both polyurathene strings and metal strings, soli body bass ukes with piezo pickups and the newer mini basses which are only slightly bigger and are more like a bass guitar in terms of sound and playability. Have a think which type you are after then I can advise you further.

[@alanyarwood5369]

@@UkuleleWales thanks for getting back to me so quickly. I asked around my uke group and have managed to loan one to try. Looking forward to watching your beginner tutorials. Diolch Alan

[@angierodgers148]

Rachel you will wonder how you had time to go to work

[@joeydrew4847]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/gnOYanyKhrGtZ8Ufeature=shared .. might bring you joy.. finished this animation just before my treatment started! Always hope x

[@nbienville]

Thanks!

[@UkuleleWales]

Thank You so much :-)