MUS 87: Beginning Ukulele brought about 20 students together for one day a week for a schooling in the basics of the peaceful Hawaiian instrument. After Revelle College sophomore Vashisht Madabhushi took the seminar last year, he decided to create the UCSD Ukulele Club. Marzullo then helped Madabhushi connect with other ukulele enthusiasts on campus, and the group of about six students started an official student organization last quarter

“The ukulele has been treated as more of a toy in the past,” Marshall College sophomore David Chan said. “People are now seeing it as an instrument with a lot of original charm to it.”

The Ukulele Club meets Friday nights from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. The first hour serves as an instruction session for new members and beginners, and the last two hours opens up for advanced players to jam together.

All beginners must first master “This Land Is Your Land” before taking on Jason Mraz’ “I’m Yours,” John Mayer’s “Daughters” and Jay Sean’s “Down.”

At meetings, faculty and staff often play alongside the undergraduates. Chan said the club is open to anyone who likes playing ukulele or who wants to learn how to play.

“The only requirement is that you are teachable and want to learn,” Chan said.

He added that owning a ukulele is not required, although it is preferred: Currently, Marzullo — who serves as the club’s advisor — lends out a total of 5 ukuleles. According to Chan, a used ukulele costs anywhere from $50 to $500. Madabhushi, in charge of administrative duties for the club, said he is trying to get a hold of more additional models so that more new members can participate during meetings.

Although there are no more performances planned, this year the Ukulele Club did perform for prospective students and their parents on Admit Day.

“There is an organic growth to the club,” Chan said. “I didn’t want this club to have a meeting agenda. The Ukulele Club spends time relaxing by getting together, playing and teaching ukulele.”