In August of 2024, a small group of Independent Living residents at St. Camillus picked up their ukuleles and began what would soon become one of the most joyful traditions on campus.
When Carolyn and Uri Limjoco discovered that a friend was a ukulele teacher, they decided to take lessons — and invited other residents to join them. A handful of interested neighbors gathered to learn their first song together: Amazing Grace. Today, under Carolyn’s guidance, the Dis-Chords ukulele group has grown to 25 members, including one of our Marquette Students in Residence.
The group meets every Thursday to practice and learn new songs. While some members brought prior musical experience — Uri has played piano since the age of three, and Carolyn once played cello — some came in with little to no background at all. In fact, several members are singing publicly for the very first time. Sam, one of our Students in Residence, will even be performing a solo at their upcoming concert — something he had never done before joining the group.
The only requirements to join the Dis-Chords are simple: have (or be willing to get) your own ukulele, be able to hold it, and be willing to sing — even if you don’t think you’re “good.” The focus is participation rather than perfection.
Behind the scenes, Carolyn organizes the lesson plans and songs for each program. Lilly B. prepares the setup and music sheets; Jean C. keeps everyone on track with scheduling, and Uri types up the lesson plans while also serving as our piano accompanist — the musical glue that holds everything together as Carolyn directs.
Together, they’ve created something that goes far beyond music. The Dis-Chords have strengthened friendships, built confidence, and fostered meaningful connections across generations.
Their music has reached beyond campus walls, too. The group has received requests to perform for church groups and the Veterans Affairs Hospital. Closer to home, they began a beloved birthday tradition — visiting residents with their ukuleles to sing “Happy Birthday” and crown them on their special day. As the group became more well-known, requests began coming in from residents across campus who wanted to surprise their friends.
The Dis-Chords’ goal is to continue building strong bonds, keep the fun going, and create a welcoming space where everyone feels encouraged to try something new. Along the way, they’re growing in confidence, strengthening friendships, and sharing plenty of laughter.
Click here for a behind-the-scenes look at them practicing and getting concert ready!
