• Gleaned from the Internet:
  
  Ohta-San is an internationally renowned musician, who is respected as ""the height of 'ukulele artistry" ... as the world's reigning ukulele virtuoso... as a celebrated 'ukulele artist.. maestro on the 'ukulele ... legendary 'ukulele master ... a perennial favorite...the world’s best uke player...
  
  

• His early mentorship by Eddie Kamae, plus music theory courses at the University of Hawai'i inspired him.

  "Eddie Kamae is credited with taking the ukulele to new virtuosic heights. Having a degree in music theory from the University of Hawaii, he took particular pleasure in tackling the most challenging music on the ukulele -- Latin, jazz, and even classical pieces. In addition to developing his own "chord soloing" technique (where the chords and melody are played simultaneously), Kamae was also famous for his trademark strum. A good example of this style can be heard in this recording of Granada. ~ Source

• The clarity and precision of his playing and the beauty of his arrangements.
  
  

• He is said to have a "cool touch," which is heard on "Little Grass Shack."
  
  

• Elevated the ukulele from an accompaniment to a solo instrument status. 
  
  

• His repertoire includes Hawaiian, Japanese, classical, jazz, rock, pop, Broadway tunes, ballads, and Latin music as well. 
  
  

• He is the only known master of the ukulele instrument to have over 300 tunes played on national radio.
  
  

• From the In the Quiet Rain CD liner notes:
  
  "Herb Ohta "Ohta san" ('Ukulele virtuoso) is the only 'ukulele soloist in the world who could play any genre of music with exquisite feeling and masterly technique."
  
  "This was a flawless recording, except for the imperfection of my 'ukulele and me.  Recording with Andre Popp is Paris is a beautiful experience.  He brings out the best in me." ~ Herb Ohta
  
  

• More details on Ohta San can be found here.

~~~

>> "Talking Story with Ohta San" at his 'Ukulele Workshop
>> Biographical info on Ohta San
>> Excerpts on Herb "Ohta San" Ohta from HAWAIIAN MUSIC AND MUSICIANS, edited by George S. Kanahele

Return to 
>> The Master of the 'Ukulele, Ohta San
>> Easter Sunday with Ohta San

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