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Summer songs 1 and 2: Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain plus Concertgebouw Amsterdam

Do you uke? Yes? You'll come away inspired. No? ha - ditto anyway -  the Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain come highly recommended. Not just a musical show but a real evening of entertainment. I was far too busy laughing for taking photos - whilst trying to follow the very intricate arrangements and playing styles.

In between jokes, the 8-strong orchestra played a variety of old and new songs arranged very skillfully for their ensemble of ukuleles - from 'fridge magnet' tiny to a bass ukulele. Some of the set pieces are available on the Orchestra's YouTube page. Amongst classics such as Morricone's The Good, The Bad and The Ugly were inspired takes on songs such as Get Lucky, Kiss and even Teenage Dirtbag. Party in the aisles of the Alhambra.

In complete contrast, a midday break from touristing round Amsterdam led us to the Concertgebouw for a bite-sized free concert. Within the calm of the Kleine Zaal  - packed with a mix of locals and tourists - we heard members of the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra perform a 35-minute programme:

Weber - Finale - Allegro (from Trio in g, Op. 63, J 259)
Schulhoff - Andante con moto; Andante;  Rondino -  Allegro gaio (from Concertino)
Brahms - Scherzo: Allegro - Molto meno allegro (from Horn Trio in E-flat major Op. 40)  

The Weber movement suited the summer's day perfectly - bright and warm. The Schulhoff which followed was rather more complex but equally rewarding. The movements from the Concertino showcased a sound derived from the Carpathian folk tradition - lots of complex rhythmic motifs and contrasting melodies, with a very lively folk dance in the Rondino.  The exuberance continued into the final section, with the lively lighter movement from Brahms' Horn Trio.  
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