Tori Ball '25 Brings Ukulele Lessons to Lookout Valley Elementary Through Fletcher Bright Fellowship

In a unique twist on musical education, Tori Ball ’25 has launched a ukulele club at Lookout Valley Elementary, introducing a group of fifth graders to the joys of music. Inspired by her own journey in discovering music later in school, she’s bringing the opportunity to younger students who might not otherwise experience it.

Every Thursday after school, Tori leads a 45-minute ukulele class, affectionately calling her group the “Ukababies.” The sessions start with an energizing game before the 15 students dive into simple chords and practice beginner-friendly songs. Her goal is to prepare them for a performance with the school’s music program by semester’s end.

Tori was able to launch this club at Lookout Valley Elementary after earning the prestigious Fletcher Bright Fellowship for the 2024-25 school year. First awarded in 2019, the Fletcher Bright Fellowship was established to foster and instill individual growth, to develop a discerning sense of inquiry, and to explore an area of concentration that brings excitement and sensitivity of wonder in a student. Recipients should create projects that will make a difference in the Chattanooga community.

During the application process, which occurred during spring of last year, Tori was asked to complete a detailed proposal, timeline, and budget. Following her submission, a committee of judges selected her as the recipient.

The ukulele club is especially meaningful for Tori, as her mother is a fifth-grade teacher at Lookout Valley. “My elementary school didn’t have a music program, and I always wished I could’ve started earlier,” she shared. With a $1,500 budget, she funded and donated ukuleles to help kickstart the program. "Ukulele is a great introduction to music. It's manageable and can lead to other instruments like guitar or piano."

Initially uncertain about leading a class as a high schooler, she found overwhelming support from the school, which saw the value of a peer mentor. She hopes to continue expanding the music program, inspiring other students to explore their own musical passions.