I’ve been breaking out the ukulele again. I started on ukulele as my first stringed instrument, and I’ve recently become enamored with it all over again from it’s happy sound and portability. My sister Jane would tell you that she is responsible for my musical career since I permanently borrowed her ukulele and chord book when I was 12 which led to getting a baritone ukulele a couple years later and then my first guitar when I was 15. The ukulele was first mentioned in Hawaii in a newspaper in 1888, and is mostly likely based on Portuguese instruments from the island of Madeira that may have been brought to Hawaii in the 1800s. It became especially popular in the 1920s when famous musicians adopted it and performed and recorded with it. I read where George Harrison said it always was a happy and hopeful sound that people wanted to hear particularly in the 20s and 50s after the world wars when people needed its uplifting spirit and sense of fun. I will tell you that it’s more difficult for me to play than guitar because I can’t naturally transfer my skills on guitar to the ukulele since the instrument is so different to hold and play. So it is taking me some time to adjust and find the sweet voice of the ukulele that I know I can bring out in time. One of these days I will surprise my audience with a few songs. I think you’ll like it. There is always something to explore and enjoy in this life!
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What have I been up to?
My senior facilities were wonderful once I got back to them at the end of the week. I played for the veterans home in Walsenburg and a memory care facility in Pueblo. It is such rewarding work when you see how the people respond.
My Tuesday online show playing Linda Ronstadt songs was such a good time. Her music has meant so much to me over the years, and it is such a tragic thing that she got her illness which has taken away her singing voice. Such a stellar voice and great presence!
The final outing of the Yellow Pine for the year on Thursday was outdoors around the campfire, and it was very special. The folks of Cuchara are just so warm and appreciative. I even had good friends from Pueblo West come down to join in.
The private engagement party Saturday evening was a beautiful outdoor event even though it had been a very hot day.
My concert at Pink House Concerts on Sunday in Colorado Springs was even more enjoyable than I had hoped for. I got to be the last regular concert of this venue, and after the rain stopped threatening and I hit my stride it was pure joy to the end. Gayle and Corlie are wonderful people and great hosts. John Spengler opened for me with some very heartfelt, well-written songs, and the audience was so genuine and welcoming. It will be a cherished memory.
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What am I up to this week?
My Sunday favorites and requests show will be tonight (Monday) 7-8:30 mountain time on Facebook and my website. Hopefully I didn’t throw my regular crowd off by switching a day. I knew I wouldn’t get back from the afternoon Pink House concert until after 7:00 when I usually start, so I moved it a day later. It will be fun show, and I hope you’ll tune in if you can.
Wednesday 11-1 I’m playing for Senior Discovery Week at the Pueblo Zoo. Admission is free for seniors 65 and older all week, and it’s always a wonderful time getting to play music and see folks and the animals at the zoo. Come on out if you’re free - especially if you’re a senior.
Wednesday evening 6-9 I’ll be at the Gold Dust Saloon on the patio. I’ve been getting back my old Magpie’s crowd coming out to see me again here, and it’s so good to reconnect over good food and drink with my music. It’s a wonderful place to spend an evening. Come on out!
My Thursday online concert 7-8:30 mountain time will be the music of Elvis Presley. I’m telling folks that I don’t do any sort of Elvis impersonation. I just like his music and love playing it. It’ll be a memorable night with tunes we all know. I’d love to have you join in with our sweet group of friends.
Saturday I’m going to a Philmont “Philtoberfest” at a Philfriends house in Colorado Springs where I’m sure the guitars and maybe even ukuleles will come out. It’s not a gig, but if you’re a Philmonter I’d love to see you there. You can find info and RSVP on the Philstaff Facebook pages.
Sunday 7-8:30 mountain time will be our regular weekly favorites show with all the good friends and fun music we look forward to each week. I’m not sure what’s on the setlist, but it is always a fine time. Please tune in if you can.
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That’s it for this week. It’s back to practicing the ukulele now! Be good and be safe and I hope to see you soon!
Best,
Tom
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Details this week:
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing and singing an online concert of favorites
Where: facebook.com/tom.munch and tommunch.com/online-concerts
When: Monday, September 13, 7-8:30 pm mountain time
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing and singing for Senior Discovery Week
Where: Pueblo Zoo Mandari Pavilion, Pueblo. 719-561-1452 ext 106
When: Wednesday, September 15, 11-1 pm
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing & singing
Where: Gold Dust Saloon, 217 S Union Ave, Pueblo
When: Wednesday, September 15, 6-9 pm
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing and singing an online concert of Elvis Presley songs
Where: facebook.com/tom.munch and tommunch.com/online-concerts
When: Thursday, September 16, 7-8:30 pm mountain time
Who: Tom Munch
What: playing and singing an online concert of favorites
Where: facebook.com/tom.munch and tommunch.com/online-concerts
When: Sunday, September 19, 7-8:30 pm mountain time