Sarah Carroll, Ukulele Queen of the Bellarine

Amidst her busy schedule of radio appearances, gigs and general antics we had a chat to Sarah following on from her Ross Lipson Award in November last year and ahead of her show in Bendigo.
Hi Sarah, thanks for taking the time to chat with us! How are you and what are you up to at the moment?
I’m wrestling with the concept of winter and being Victorian and wishing I wasn’t. Apart from that, fab! Just had an amazing run of gigs, supported Tim Rogers at Saints and Sailors on Wednesday night, lovely gig at the Wesley Anne on Thursday, 3 Pairs mini tour on Friday and Saturday and Suzannah Espie single launch on Sunday. Phew!! Getting ready to record my next album in Tamworth in September.
You are undeniably known as the ‘Ukulele Queen of the Bellarine’, is that a title you wear with pride?
It’s a comedy title my friend Susan bestowed upon me with her trademark heavy irony. However, it’s proven to be a handy marketing device and I am proud of it, so up her nose with a rubber hose.
You’re also known for your many collaborations with various musicians, do you like to mix things up in your career?
If you’re going to make anything like a living in music, you must be flexible and ready to work with others. Never say no to an invitation to collaborate! It’s taught me so much and made me a better musician I think.
What’s the biggest thing you learn from working with a new musician?
How fast they can decide to order in a cafe. Too slow, they’re out. And, how can I accompany/use their skills/sing with them best?
You’ll be working alongside the Ukulele Carnivale for a few shows, did you first get together for your shared love of the Ukulele? 
Indeed! I taught Susan Russell to play when she began composing these great little songs but had no instrument. I’d been mucking around on it for a year or two by then. Now all three of us are quite the connoisseurs!!
What kind of dynamic do they add to your live performance or vice versa, what do you add to theirs? 
We perform separately mostly, but I love what they do and they like to include me here and there…we support and love each other and try to pass opportunities around. Why just last week, Susan was kind enough to send me a contact for a gig opening a new road in Craigieburn!! Thanks, Suz!!
What do you think is the biggest misconception about the ukulele as an instrument and the sound it produces? 
People see it as a toy; silly, small and only for dilettantes and children.
And what drew you to the instrument to begin with? 
The incredible delicacy of the sounds it made in the hands of Azo Bell.
Thanks again for taking the time to chat with us, are there any last words of wisdom you’d like to share with our readers? 
It would be wise to come to our shows!!!
When & Where: The Old Church On the Hill, Bendigo – July 25