STRING FEVER
Two-day festival celebrates ukulele, with concerts, workshops
Six years ago, Gary Wells took up playing the ukulele.
Wells said he was drawn to the instrument because the experience of playing it was like no other instrument.
“I’ve kind of been involved music all of my life but nothing is as fun as a ukulele,” said Gary Wells, Ukekopelli Festival founder.
There were no ukulele teachers or classes in the vicinity when Wells began playing ukulele. The nearest classes were in Reno, Nev.
The festival has blossomed since its beginning. Instructors will be part of a concert tonight at the African-American Performing Arts Center. The concert will feature songs as well as a costume contest in support of this year’s festival theme, Comic Books & Super Heroes. Prizes will be given for best costume.
“We’re going to have the costume contest after the intermission so if some people have larger costumes or delicate costumes or costumes difficult to put on they’ll have some time,” Wells said. “Starting the second act is when the costume contest is (tonight).”
A number of ukulele workshops will be held on Saturday, Sept. 29, and Sunday, Sept. 30, at the Albuquerque Marriott in the Uptown area. Eventgoers can attend several panel discussions at which they can ask workshop instructors questions and learn more about them and their connection to the ukulele.
Comic book vendors and artists will be part of the event both days. Workshop topics include Blues Ukulele with Fred Sokolow, the songs of Lyle Ritz with Jim Beloff, Intro to Swing Ukulele with Gerald Ross, and Intro to Fingerpicking with Craig McClelland.
“We make sure during the festival that we have classes and workshops that are going to appeal to every players ability.”Wells said.