Genevieve Rochette
I moved to Ontario from Quebec City in 1994, and I’ve been a Brantford resident since 2001. I’m a dedicated ukulele musician and instructor for over a decade and I’m passionate about sharing the joy of ukulele music through teaching and community outreach through the Bell City Strummers and the school community. President and co-founder of the Brantford Ukulele Society. Registered James Hill Ukulele Initiative Level 3 Instructor, member of The Ukulele Orchestra of Toronto since 2024 and Uke Head #62/#202.
Approach
Personalized Journey
Every student has their own unique musical voice. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine your skills, I tailor lessons to your goals, interests, and pace. You’ll learn songs you love while building a strong foundation in technique and musicianship.
Rounded Approach
The ukulele isn’t just about strumming - it combines melody, harmony and rhythm. My teaching integrates all these elements, helping you develop a complete musical skill set. From fingerpicking to chord progression, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of how music works.
Learning That Moves With You
Music is dynamic, and so is learning! My approach adapts to your needs, ensuring lessons stay engaging and flexible. Whether you prefer structured guidance or a more exploratory style, I help you build confidence while keeping the process fun and effective.
Play, Create, Connect
Music is meant to be shared! Through interactive lessons, group jam, and performance opportunities, you’ll connect with others and gain the confidence to express yourself musically. The goal is not just to play ukulele but to make music a meaningful part of your life.
Classes & Pricing
Join the Grand River Strings Ukulele Ensemble (GRSUE) September 2026 for our third season of ukulele orchestra!
Building on momentum of our inaugural session, this ensemble brings ukulele players together to explore music in a collaborative orchestral setting. Whether you’re new to ensemble playing or looking to deepen your musicianship, GRSUE offers a welcoming space to grow your skills, connect with others, and make music together. Come be part of a creative community where rhythm, melody, and joy flow together, just like the Grand River.
Next session will start September 2026
Email me for more details
Private Lessons On Demand
One-on-one lesson are offered on demand only. Tailored to your goals, available based on scheduling availability. Contact me to discuss your needs and book a session.
$30 for 1/2 hour lesson
$45 for 3/4 hour lesson
$60 for 1 hour lesson
Ukulele Workshops
Beginner Ukulele Fingerpicking Workshop
Learn the basics of fingerpicking and discover a new way to play the ukulele in this beginner-friendly workshop. Ideal for players who know a few chords and want to go beyond strumming, this class introduces simple fingerpicking patterns, basic finger placement, and how to read ukulele tabs. With clear instruction and guided practice, participants will build confidence, develop coordination, and start adding beautiful fingerpicked textures to their playing.
For more information, send me an email!
Ukulele Projetcs
Our first Branford Ukulele Festival took place on July 19, 2025, and was a huge success, bringing together ukulele players and music lovers for a day filled with inspiring workshops, live performances, and community fun.
Thanks to the incredible support of our volunteers, participants, artists, vendors, and the ukulele community, we proudly celebrated our second festival on July 17-18, 2026 - and we could’nt be happier with the outcome! What srated as a dream has grown into an amazing celebration of music, friendship and all things ukulele.
We are so grateful to everyone who helped make this year’s festival such a success. We’re already looking forward to the 3rd edition next summer!
Uke Head #62
In 2022, I became part of an incredible global music project called the “Uke Heads”, founded by Grammy-winning artist James Hill. Being part of the Uke heads changed my life. It connected me with a passionate community of ukulele players and challenged me to grow as a player, and gave me the opportunity to contribute to something larger than myself. In 2025, thanks to James and everyone’s hard work, we were recognized when Uke Heads was nominated for a Canadian Folk Music award. A brand-new Uke Heads project is underway and it’s open for members! If you’d like to be part of this unique global community, visit ukeheads.com to learn more and join in.
ukeheads.com
Uke Head #202
Four years ago, my great friend Catherine and I cofounded Bell City Strummers, a welcoming ukulele group here in Brantford! Since then, we’ve grown into a performing band and a wonderful community of ukulele players.
We meet a couple of Wednesdays each month at St. Andrew’s United, 95 Darling St. from 7:30-9pm. The cost per session is $5. Visit the Brantford Ukulele Society-Upcoming Events Calendar for all the dates.
For those who are just starting their ukulele journey, we also have the Bell City Strum Club, a supportive, fun and beginner-friendly group open to players of all skill levels.
We normally meet at the Brantford Public Library on Sunday from October to April, but as the library is no longer open on Sundays this season, our Strum Club will also be meeting at St. Andrew’s United Church. The cost per session is $5.
Weather you’re a complete beginner or an experienced player, come join us, make some music and experience the joy of strumming together.
In March 2023, I traveled to Baños, Ecuador, with Catherine to bring the joy of ukulele music to St. George English School. We donated 20 ukuleles and taught English as a second language through music, using the ukulele as a powerful tool of learning and connection. This experience was life changing and we continue to support the school by seeking donations to keep the program going. If you’d like to help bring more music and learning opportunities to these students, reach out - we’d love your support!
St. George English School
Let’s chat!
