El Belle
by Steve Einhorn
| El Belle Chart |
Steve wrote this uke instrumental in 'the people's key of C' on his circus-girl sister's rediscovered ukulele. In appreciation for having found the instrument so ready and willing to be played, Steve composed "El Belle" to go with his happy heart at the thought of his sister riding her elephant Suzy. Ellen aka El Belle graciously endowed her brother with her uke on permanent loan, and the little tune is played wherever he goes. This kora-like tune can be found on several recordings, including Harbour and Brick & Mortar). A centrifugal sound is sought in the seamless Travis pick (on strings 4-2-3-1) played gently over and over in 4/4 time. The groove of the pick has a reciprocal sound with a west african feel, it's hard to stop. Go ahead, try!
