How a Love for Music Sparked the Ukulele Orchestra of Kamloops

The love of music has been the beginning of many great things—and the story of the Ukulele Orchestra of Kamloops is no exception. What started as a simple idea shared by Colleen Nielsen and Awna de Haan has grown into a warm, welcoming musical community in the heart of Kamloops.

With a shared passion for ukulele and a desire to bring people together, Colleen and Awna created a space where anyone—beginners, hobby musicians, and experienced players—could gather, learn, and make music in a supportive environment. Their goal was simple yet powerful:Create a place where music connects people.

Today, the Ukulele Orchestra of Kamloops is more than a music group. It is a community built on friendship, joy, and the belief that music is for everyone. Through group practices, workshops, and local performances, the orchestra has become a lively part of Kamloops’ cultural landscape.

What began as a small initiative has blossomed into a musical family—one that continues to grow, inspire, and bring harmony to the community.