Chamber Music

The above tracks show a sample of the classical / chamber music side of James and Anne's repertoire. Both musicians were raised on classical music; James holds a Bachelor of Music degree, Anne holds a Master of Music degree in cello performance. Their love of chamber music is evident in all of their performances and recordings, most notably in those included here.

Track Descriptions:

One Small Suite for Ukulele: Written in 2004/05 for ukulele and string quartet, One Small Suite for Ukulele stands alone in the ukulele repertoire: a virtuosic showpiece that pushes the instrument into uncharted territory. Over the course of three movements we hear a entirely new ukulele sound: brilliant, broad, sensitive and full of life.

Duke's Alley Rag: A musical portrait of Duke's Alley, Waikiki, Hawaii. Duke's Alley is the dirty, bustling street where tourists get their tacky knick knacks and souvenirs. This piece was composed on the very street that bears its name; in it we hear echoes of Joplin and the great ragtime pianists.

Assam / Like a Bird: A medley of two pieces written in memory of departed friends. Both pieces are played in a clawhammer style, an ancient technique most closely associated with the banjo. Echoes of traditional Quebequois music can be heard in the double-foot-tapping accompaniment of Like a Bird.

Indecision Rag: No matter how serious and beautiful it can be, the ukulele always wears a smile!