Cultural District

Jake Shimabukuro is a world-renowned ukulele virtuoso whose groundbreaking artistry has redefined the instrument for the 21st century. Hailed as the “Jimi Hendrix of the ukulele,” Shimabukuro has captivated audiences across the globe with his masterful technique, innovative spirit, and deeply expressive performances that seamlessly blend elements of jazz, rock, classical, blues, folk, and traditional Hawaiian music.

Born and raised in Honolulu, Hawai‘i, Jake began playing the ukulele at age four, quickly developing a unique style that pushed the instrument far beyond its traditional boundaries. He first gained international recognition after his jaw-dropping rendition of George Harrison’s “While My Guitar Gently Weeps” went viral, introducing millions to the ukulele’s untapped potential.

Over the course of his career, Shimabukuro has released numerous acclaimed albums, collaborated with an array of legendary artists—including Bette Midler, Yo-Yo Ma, Jimmy Buffett, Ziggy Marley, and Mick Fleetwood—and performed everywhere from the Sydney Opera House to the Hollywood Bowl and the Kennedy Center. His most recent projects showcase both his dazzling technical command and his growing focus on emotional storytelling through music.

Beyond the stage, Jake is a passionate advocate for music education and community outreach, frequently performing at schools and benefit concerts to inspire the next generation of musicians. Whether playing an intimate solo show or headlining with a full band, Shimabukuro continues to prove that the ukulele is an instrument of infinite possibilities—one that speaks a universal language of joy, connection, and hope.

Join us for an evening of contemporary jazz with Portland State University alumna and internationally touring saxophonist Nicole McCabe.

A dynamic bandleader, performer and composer, McCabe returns to PSU to share her innovative approach to jazz and her distinctive sound. She has toured internationally as a bandleader and as a member of Dolphin Hyper Space, a project led by bassist Logan Kane and McCabe.

Learn more about Portland State University's School of Music & Theater's Jazz & Contemporary Music program.

Jake Shimabukuro is a world-renowned ukulele virtuoso whose groundbreaking artistry has redefined the instrument for the 21st century. Hailed as the “Jimi Hendrix of the ukulele,” Shimabukuro has captivated audiences across the globe with his masterful technique, innovative spirit, and deeply expressive performances that seamlessly blend elements of jazz, rock, classical, blues, folk, and traditional Hawaiian music.

Born and raised in Honolulu, Hawai‘i, Jake began playing the ukulele at age four, quickly developing a unique style that pushed the instrument far beyond its traditional boundaries. He first gained international recognition after his jaw-dropping rendition of George Harrison’s “While My Guitar Gently Weeps” went viral, introducing millions to the ukulele’s untapped potential.

Over the course of his career, Shimabukuro has released numerous acclaimed albums, collaborated with an array of legendary artists—including Bette Midler, Yo-Yo Ma, Jimmy Buffett, Ziggy Marley, and Mick Fleetwood—and performed everywhere from the Sydney Opera House to the Hollywood Bowl and the Kennedy Center. His most recent projects showcase both his dazzling technical command and his growing focus on emotional storytelling through music.

Beyond the stage, Jake is a passionate advocate for music education and community outreach, frequently performing at schools and benefit concerts to inspire the next generation of musicians. Whether playing an intimate solo show or headlining with a full band, Shimabukuro continues to prove that the ukulele is an instrument of infinite possibilities—one that speaks a universal language of joy, connection, and hope.

Join us for an evening of contemporary jazz with Portland State University alumna and internationally touring saxophonist Nicole McCabe.

A dynamic bandleader, performer and composer, McCabe returns to PSU to share her innovative approach to jazz and her distinctive sound. She has toured internationally as a bandleader and as a member of Dolphin Hyper Space, a project led by bassist Logan Kane and McCabe.

Learn more about Portland State University's School of Music & Theater's Jazz & Contemporary Music program.

George Colligan presents the PSU Jazz Band in a concert featuring original music and jazz standards.

Learn more about the School of Music & Theater Jazz program.

George Colligan presents the PSU Jazz Band in a concert featuring original music and jazz standards.

Learn more about the School of Music & Theater Jazz program.

The Jazz Area Combos present a series of small group performances featuring a range of jazz and contemporary music. With works arranged or composed by students and faculty, the concert offers a thoughtful look at the collaborative and creative efforts within the Jazz Area.

Additional performance on Tuesday, November 24, 2026, 7:30 PM.

Learn more about the School of Music & Theater Jazz program.

The Jazz Area Combos present a series of small group performances featuring a range of jazz and contemporary music. With works arranged or composed by students and faculty, the concert offers a thoughtful look at the collaborative and creative efforts within the Jazz Area.

Additional performance on Tuesday, November 24, 2026, 7:30 PM.

Learn more about the School of Music & Theater Jazz program.