James Hill’s name has become synonymous with the ukulele across this nation.
Now, the award-winning, and somewhat famous Langley Ukulele Ensemble grad returns home this weekend to lead a master uke workshop and perform alongside his new wife in a hometown concert.
In fact, just before this story was written, Hill was seen tweeting out about his last minute preparations for the weekend festivities – which he’s attended faithfully for years.
Hill will be leading a Friday uke workshop with his mentor and friend Peter Luongo (the former LUE leader), as well as Luongo’s son Paul Luongo (the current ensemble director), and a few other uke instructors from around the West Coast.
This segment of the uke event has been sold out for months, but there’s still a chance for devoted uke fans to be part of the musical weekend.
Hill – who released his latest album, The Old Silo, last month – and his new bride Anne Janelle (they were married last fall, and she too has a new album out) will also be the guest starring in the annual uke concert, aptly named Live in Concert, happening Saturday night at the Langley Evangelical Free Church.
“With James being a former member of the Langley Ukulele Sr. A ensemble, it is always great having him home and back to the roots of where he began many years ago,†shared Paul Luongo.
Luongo recalled being a student with the local music group back in the early 2000s, under his father’s tutelage, and remembers being in awe of Hill and his abilities with the uke.
“James and I remain in touch throughout the year and I truly do consider him a mentor, role model, and good friend… I look forward to his return trips to Langley, so that he and I can grab a cup of coffee and catch up,†said the younger Luongo.
Hill, 34, now resides in Nova Scotia and travels the globe performing and teaching. In fact, he’s in Australia for a number of appearances later this month, and seldom makes a concert appearance without also conducting workshops – finding satisfaction in not only playing, but in sharing his passion for the music with others.
The Langley Ukulele Ensemble presents Live in Concert on Saturday, Oct. 4, from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Langley Evangelical Free Church. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., and tickets – if there are still any available, are $25 ($15 for students and seniors) and can be had by clicking here, or by calling 604-340-8537.