Americana Project expands its reach in Sisters and beyond

Students in Sisters Elementary School will soon be strumming on ukeleles, thanks to the Sisters Folk Festival's Americana Project and The Roundhouse Foundation.

At the close of last year, the Americana Project received a grant from The Roundhouse Foundation to purchase 28 ukuleles for the Sisters Elementary School music program.

"We are thrilled to provide the Sisters Elementary School students the opportunity to learn to play ukulele," said Tisdel. "It is exciting and a great instrument to learn the fundamentals of strumming, chording, singing and playing, all at the same time."

Last week Tisdel brought two large boxes full of instruments, complete with gig bags and tuners, to Sisters Elementary School. The students were brought into the gym where the black and red bags were handed out for the first time. The excitement in the room was electric as the eager students got their first peak at the instruments they will be learning to play.

Up until now, Americana Project efforts at the elementary-school level have focused on visual-arts curriculum. Getting students started on the ukulele at a young age sets them up well for additional Americana Project classes in middle and high school.

"We think this will be a wonderful addition to the Americana Project and will build skills for years to come for student to further their learning on guitar, mandolin, banjo and any other stringed instrument," said Tisdel.

Tisdel has also been busy handling logistics for a great opportunity for Americana Project students to share their songs and performance skills on a larger stage. Returning to Central Oregon, the Shook Twins will make an appearance in Bend.

"The Shook Twins performed at the 2011 Sisters Folk Festival and were a hit, especially with our younger audience," said Tisdel. "They are quirky, hip and modern-Americana."

With experience on stage in smaller venues, the Americana Project students are ready to take their talents a bit farther from home. When Tower Theatre Executive Director Ray Solley asked Tisdel to have Americana Project students open the show, Tisdel didn't hesitate.

"The chance for our kids to play at the Tower Theatre is a rare opportunity, and they will work hard to hone their set. This will be an impressive performance and we are excited to showcase the students of the educational outreach program of Sisters Folk Festival. They are young, talented and inspired," said Tisdel.

Originally, the Americana Project grew out of the belief that the arts can open new horizons for youth, fostering creativity, teaching discipline, improving self-esteem, and challenging students to think in new ways. A community and school-based program, the Americana Project combines music education, visual arts, and community involvement. Working with community members, the Americana Project helps foster a connection of local schools and local artists to provide a unique educational experience for students.

The Shook Twins will be at the Tower Theatre on Friday, February 8, at 7:30 p.m. The Tower Theatre is located at 835 N.W. Wall St. General admission tickets are $14. For more information call the Tower Theatre offices at 541-317-0700 or visit www.TowerTheatre.org.