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Jake Shimabukuro Plays Ukulele

Sept. 28 - Ann and I were delighted to meet Hawaiian ukulele virtuoso Jake Shimabukuro at the home of Ambassador Roos and his wife Susie Roos. Jake is a fifth-generation Japanese American whose ukulele playing is well known in both the United States and Japan.

Ambassador Roos and Mrs. Roos insisted on an encore.

Although the ukulele is traditionally associated with Hawaiian music, Jake is not limited by this genre, and he played a variety of songs including a modern rendition of the American national anthem, the traditional Japanese song "Sakura Sakura," a Spanish number associated with classical guitar, and several original pieces that draw upon a variety of musical traditions. Ann's favorite was a love song that Jake wrote for his fiance.

Jake told us that his music stems from a universal language that transcends different cultures. Ann and I were glad to hear that Jake is performing around Japan, because we thought he makes a wonderful cultural ambassador for the United States as well as for his native state of Hawaii.

Jake Shimabukuro wows the audience.

Until next time,

Jim

COMMENTS

Anyone interested in learning more about Japan's relationship with Hawaii should read James A. Michener's book "Hawaii." The book is about the history of Hawaii and is "historically accurate" fiction. It gives a great context to understanding the background of a 5th generation Japanese-American like Jake Shimabukuro.

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