Jake Shimabukuro at Hill Auditorium

Jake Shimabukuro…WOW.

In his young career, Hawaiian ukulele wizard Jake Shimabukuro has already redefined a heretofore under-the-radar instrument, been declared a musical “hero” by Rolling Stone, earned comparisons to Jimi Hendrix and Miles Davis, and even played in front of the Queen of England.  – from the UMS website

I hadn’t heard of this guy before this year.  He’s a genius.  He put on an amazing show and got kids not only excited about music, but the UKULELE!  What’s better than a cool UMS performance!?  A visit from our very own John Sperendi BEFORE the concert!  John shared his musical knowledge and ukulele love with the class before we headed to Hill Auditorium.  John shared two ukuleles, one traditional and one COOLER THAN COOL…made from an old cigar box.  Three cheers to Joey Parins, our amazing music teacher, John Sperendi, our resident ukulele dude and Jake Shimabukuro – ukulele LEGEND.  Bravo!