What began as a final class performance has evolved into an ongoing community tradition for Western Nevada College Continuing Education students.

Last semester, students from WNC’s Ukulele Jam class wrapped up their course with a public performance at The Fox Restaurant & Brewery in Carson City, inviting friends and family to celebrate what they had learned. The evening struck such a positive chord that the restaurant’s owner immediately invited the group back — turning a one-time performance into a monthly Tuesday night jam session.

Now, the music continues well beyond the classroom. Management of the sessions has even been taken on by two class members, ensuring the gatherings carry on when the instructor isn’t available.

“This is a testament to the power of community education and music to bring folks together, forge friendships and make strong community connections,” said WNC Continuing Education Manager Lauren Slemenda Moore.

The course is led by instructor Cassidy Paul, a local elementary school music teacher whose welcoming teaching style has helped students of all backgrounds feel comfortable making music.

“I’ve truly never met someone better suited for their exact job,” Slemenda Moore said. “Cassidy is passionate, knowledgeable and very funny, and her teaching style has a way of making folks feel at ease and let go of perfectionism so they can just have fun!”

Paul said the idea for the public jam grew from her desire to make music more accessible.

“As a musician, I talk with many people who say, ‘I could never do that’ or ‘I’m not a musician,’” Paul said. “Music used to feel accessible, but now there’s this assumption you have to be a Grammy winner to participate. You can be imperfect at something and still have fun doing it.”

She chose the ukulele for its affordability and quick learning curve, making it an ideal instrument for beginners looking to build confidence. The Fox jam session originally served as the final project for Ukulele 2 students, challenging them to play in a social setting. While coursework prepared them musically, Paul credits student enthusiasm for helping the experience flourish.

“It was a combination of course material and student tenacity that made the jam possible,” she said.

Today’s sessions are relaxed, social and filled with laughter. Participants bring instruments, songbooks and a willingness to play, often while enjoying dinner together. Staff at The Fox have embraced the tradition as well — occasionally recording clips, singing along and cheering on the group.

For current students, the opportunity to continue playing in the community keeps the momentum going long after class ends — proving that learning music at WNC doesn’t just build skills, it builds lasting connections.

“What started as a classroom experience and grew into a lasting community tradition is exactly what Continuing Education at Western Nevada College is all about,” WNC President Dr. J. Kyle Dalpe said. “These ukulele jam sessions show that learning doesn’t end when class is over — it expands into connection, confidence and creativity. I’m incredibly proud of our students, our instructor Cassidy Paul and our Continuing Education team for creating opportunities that bring people together and enrich the cultural fabric of our community through music.”

Learn more about WNC’s Continuing Education program and classes that are offered this winter and spring at https://wnc.edu/continuing-education. Phone Continuing Education at 775-445-4210.