Thimphu was abuzz with the cheerful strums of ukuleles and harmonious melodies on the evening of November 3, as Bhutan became the latest destination for the World Ukulele Programme. The event, held at the G Music Training Institute, transformed the heart of the city into a vibrant hub of cultural exchange and musical exploration.
Organized by the Mohala Hou Foundation with the invaluable support of Emmy Award-winning filmmaker Dr. Tom Vendetti, the programme brought an array of ukuleles and a mission to inspire Bhutanese youth through the universal language of music. Her Royal Highness, Ashi Kezang Choden Wangchuck, honored the gathering with her presence, underscoring the significance of the initiative.
Originating from Hawaii, the World Ukulele Programme has successfully connected diverse cultures across Asia, with previous workshops in Cambodia and Sikkim. This year, the initiative reached Bhutan after a five-year planning period delayed by the global pandemic. Thirty-three Bhutanese students and six dedicated teachers participated in the immersive three-day event, receiving expert guidance from renowned ukulele instructors hailing from Hawaii.
Under the tutelage of masters like Jeff Peterson, a Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar virtuoso, and Canadian composer Ann Mortifee, the young musicians delved into not just the technical aspects of ukulele playing but also the creative process of integrating their newfound skills with Bhutanese cultural expressions. “Our goal is not to impose Hawaiian music on these talented children,” explained Dr. Vendetti, founder of the programme. “Instead, we empower them to use the ukulele as a tool to express their own cultural heritage.”
The evening culminated in a spectacular world premiere of Jeff Peterson’s film, Concerto for Slack Key Guitar and Orchestra – Malama ‘Aina, directed by Dr. Vendetti. The film, a tribute to Hawaii’s majestic volcanoes Haleakala, Kilauea, and Mauna Loa, offered audiences a mesmerizing blend of visual artistry and musical prowess. This groundbreaking composition, the first of its kind for slack key guitar, not only celebrated Hawaii’s natural splendor but also highlighted the vital connection between art, nature, and environmental stewardship.
Adding to the night’s accolades, local musicians Jigme Drukpa and Thinley Choden received Emmy Award-winning plaques for their contributions to Dr. Vendetti’s acclaimed documentary, Bhutan – Taking The Middle Path to Happiness. The film, which explores Bhutan’s unique Gross National Happiness (GNH) philosophy, was pivotal in introducing Bhutan’s cultural values to the international community. “Witnessing Bhutan’s commitment to GNH inspired me to bring the World Ukulele Programme here,” said Dr. Vendetti. “Their dedication to cultural preservation and well-being aligns perfectly with our mission.”
The event not only showcased the transformative power of music but also celebrated Bhutanese talents who have significantly contributed to the country’s artistic legacy. Dr. Vendetti emphasized that the evening was a testament to the enduring impact of cultural initiatives in fostering global understanding and joy.
As the final notes of the ukuleles echoed through Thimphu, it was clear that the World Ukulele Programme had sown seeds of harmony and creativity, promising a brighter, more interconnected future for Bhutan’s young musicians.
