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The Approachable Charm of the Ukulele

http://www.aloha-hawaii.com

"It's a rage right now, a new American pastime."  Local ukulele enthusiast, and professional percussionist, John Bartlit thinks that "in our jet set, apartment-moving society, it's a perfect fit."  The unassuming four-string instrument, which emerged in Hawaii in the late 19th Century, will be the center of attention in Albuquerque on September 23-25 when national and local musicians convene for the 3rd annual Ukekopelli Festival.

In this more complete version of the conversation, John describes his contributions to the Ukekopelli Festival, both as a performer and workshop leader.

john_bartlit_interview_long_version.mp3

Honky Tonk Corazon, one of John Bartlit's original compositions, performed as a ukulele duet by John and his daughter Nola Bartlit.

john_and_nola_bartlit_play_honky_tonk_corazon.mp3

Spencer Beckwith reports on the arts for KUNM. For ten years, until March of 2014, Spencer was the producer and host of KUNM's "Performance New Mexico," a weekday morning arts program that included interviews with musicians, writers and performers. Spencer is a graduate of the acting program at the Juilliard School, and, before moving to New Mexico in 2002, was for many years a professional actor based in New York City.