Since when could you imagine the ukulele taking center stage at a symphony hall? Enter Jake Shimabukuro: a young Hawaiian who has been recognized as one of the world's most exciting and innovative ukulele players and composers.
This guy emits positive energy even through his dozens of youtube videos, I can't wait to actually be in his presense. If his last album is any indication, Davies Hall is in for quite a ride Wednesday night where he will be playing as part of the SFJazz Festival's season. Jake's latest album release is entirely live. Every track reveals a different side of the ukulele: soft and sensitive at times, other times cheery and playful, occasionally dramatic, and, once in a while, hard and aggressive.
Jake writes his own material as well as innovative covers such as "While My Guitar Gently Weeps" (see the video below which has received over 3 million views on youtube), "Thriller" (which I bet will be played on Wednesday) and J.S. Bach's "Two-Part Invention No. 4 in D Minor."
Music education is very important to Jake. He is the key spokesman for Music is Good Medicine, an organization based in Hawaii that believes in the power of music to heal, influence and inspire community, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and help pursue dreams with a positive attitude. Through school visits, workshops, care for the elderly, community outreach and charity events, Music is Good Medicine supports the community with role models like Jake. "I love what I do" he says, "I'm forever thankful for music."
Just watch the below video and see for youself why Jake Shimabukuro will pack Davies Hall on Wednesday night.
Get your tickets here: SFJAZZ Festival $25, $35, $50 & $65 concert at Davies Symphony Hall at 7:30pm
Come early for a pre-talk with Jake at 6:30pm
For more information: Jake Shimabukuro see his official website
What else does SFJazz have instore for us coming up? See their website
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Comments
Jake Shimabukuro is AMAZING. I grew up in Hawaii, and know people who went to school with Jake. From the time he started playing music, I've been a fan of his. To me, his take on music bridges the gap between traditional and contemporary Hawaiian music. He takes what is typically considered a traditional Hawaiian musical instrument, and makes music that is pure joy. The beats will make you happy, and you can tell just how much Jake loves what he does by the enthusiasm and pleasure he gets from the crowd. If you can see him, definitely do it. It's worth the price, and you won't be disappointed!
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