Be prepared to forget everything you thought you knew about the ‘ukulele and meet James Hill, a powerhouse of music of all styles and genres, wielding nothing but an instrument with just four strings. He has been called the “Paganini of the ‘ukulele” and likened to Jimi Hendrix, in the same breath. His repertoire is vast and he moves easily between a lightning-fast rendition of “Flight of the Bumblebee” to a solo interpretation of “One Note Samba,” where he plays four members of the band (including two percussionists) all at the same time! His solo version of Michael Jackson’s “Billie Jean” is currently sweeping You Tube. He can croon with the best of them, and, in the quebecois foot-tapping tradition of Quebec, he can accompany himself with each foot, independently, too! He quietly contemplates what we think would be impossible, then sets about to accomplish it.
James Hill’s performance at the Napa Valley Opera House kicks off the 2011 Wine Country ‘Ukulele Festival, and he will will share the stage with four of his favorite compatriots: Anne Davison, Aaron Keim, Gerald Ross, and Lil’Rev. It’s a rare to treat to see this particular crew--each one a talented soloist in their own right--on the stage together. It will most certainly be a night to remember.
The lanky, personable Hill... proved beyond a shadow of a doubt that in the right hands the uke can be a formidable axe.
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Roger LeLievre, The Ann Arbor News
Anne Davison has one of the most innate talents I've ever witnessed. Her work as a sound and movement artist is so completely intuitive that it pours out of her as naturally as breath or sweat or tears or laughter. Her classical training gives a strong foundation yet at the same time melts away to allow the pure spirit of her performance.
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Claire Elizabeth Barratt, Director of Cilla Vee - Life Arts Inter-disciplinary Arts Organization
Gerald (Ross) is truly one of the greatest multi-instrumental musicians in the Midwest. His repertoire includes Hawaiian steel guitar, ukulele, guitar and bass, and many more instruments. . . . .the cream-of-crop of professional musicians. . . . . continues to leave his audiences happy and wanting more.
Terry Truhart, Co-Organizer, Windy City UkeFest
Lil Rev is the Jewish Pete Seeger: a voice that just pulls you in, a raconteur and a folksinger in the classic tradition of songs of justice, dignity, and Jewish heritage.
Rabbi Larry Milder
Aaron Keim is making some mighty big contributions. . . . .with old songs that sound fresh and new songs that sound like classics. His musical chops are in a neck and neck race with his great taste. His listeners are the lucky ones, as he wins, places, and shows.
Joe Newberry
Tickets ($25, $35, and $50) are available through the Napa Valley Opera House Box Office, 1030 Main Street, Napa, CA (Monday through Friday from 10 – 5 and Saturday from noon – 4) or can be ordered by phone (707) 226-7372. $50 tickets include preferred seating at the concert and admission to the opening night reception (6:30 – 7:30), hosted by Mya-Moe Ukuleles.
For more information about the Wine Country ‘Ukulele Festival, please visit www.winecountryukefest.com
To purchase tickets online, please visit http://www.nvoh.org/index.php/component/content/article/766
