Apr 12, 2020
I recorded this episode on a work trip to Wellington, New Zealand back in February – looking at the calendar, it was less than two months ago, but it feels like another life! I asked a few people who I should talk to in Wellington, and the response was unanimous – Shane McAlister.
Shane’s place was about an hour’s train ride from Wellington and he picked me up at the station in his van, which was packed full of various instruments and puppets.
We did the interview in Shane’s living room, where he wandered around the room grabbing different instruments as we chatted. This had some interesting effects on the sound quality, as you will probably hear! His house was a treasure trove of interesting things, and I have to apologise for forgetting to take photos of the puppets and instruments for you, but hopefully you will get the idea.
Some show-related links below:
- Paraparaumu
- Te Raukura ki Kāpiti (New performing arts centre)
- Alistair’s Music
- Cliff Edwards
- Ben Harper
- The Sopranos
- Tony Francis - Luthier
- Stump fiddle
- Martin Ukuleles
- Bevan Galbraith
- Swamp kauri
- Mbira
Songs played in this episode:
- Don’t Worry Be Happy (Bobby McFerrin. 1988)
- Ukulele Blister (Shane McAlister)
- Stumpfiddle the Ukulele Pirate (Shane McAlister)
Go to the Ukulele Is The New Black YouTube channel for a playlist to hear these songs as well as others mentioned in the episode.
Ukulele is the New Black is produced by Meredith Harper, who also wrote the theme tune. The theme tune was performed by Meredith Harper, Jasmine Fellows, Geoff Skellams, Jim Croft, Chris Williams, Paul Marsh and Sandra Shaw. Seb Carraro does the graphic design.
Thanks to my $10 and over Patreon supporters for helping me to make this podcast:
- Ukulele Champion: Debbie Hoad
- Ukulele Legend: Linda Dodwell
The music played in this episode is licenced under a Podcasts (Featured Music) agreement with APRA AMCOS.