On September 20th, students in the long-running ukulele program at Coffee Creek Correctional Facility in Wilsonville had their first-ever recital, playing to a packed room of other AIC (Adults In Custody). Songs ranged from a solo, fingerpicked version of ‘Twinkle Twinkle Little Star’ to a full-group rendition of the popular hit ‘Save Me’ by Jelly Roll. One student even debuted an original number she had written that week. Some of the musicians had been playing for months, while others were absolute beginners, having picked up a uke for the first time only weeks before the show. 

The audience was supportive and enthusiastic, singing along to many of the songs. Two facility administrators were also in attendance, and could be seen smiling and clapping along during the performance.

 Said one participant, “That was AMAZING. Let’s do it again!” The group has already started working on the next recital, a holiday-themed show set to perform in December.