Jake Shimabukuro embodies the heart and soul of ukulele music, wringing great emotion, beauty, meaning and thrills out of four strings.?

KAHULUI – Jake Shimabukuro will perform a concert with the Maui Pops Orchestra on Saturday, Feb. 11, at 7:30 p.m. in the Maui Arts & Cultural Center’s Castle Theater.

Renowned for his super-fast and complex finger work, ukulele wizard Shimabukuro has redefined the meaning of music that comes from that instrument.

Starting his career in Hawaii, Shimabukuro took his inspiration from some of the islands’ great “uke” players, but he quickly expanded his scope from there, drawing influences from across the musical spectrum.

In 2001, he was signed to Epic Records as a solo artist. It was the start of what would become a deep catalog of solo albums, noted for their dazzling fretwork, ambitious repertoire and wistful melodicism.

In 2005, Shimabukuro became an international phenomenon when a video of him performing the George Harrison song “While My Guitar Gently Weeps” went viral on YouTube.

By adapting a guitar hero’s anthem for the ukulele, Shimabukuro made a significant statement: the ukulele, with its humble four strings and modest two-octave range, is an instrument limited only by the imagination and creativity of the person playing it.?

He is now a worldwide phenomenon; he’s been declared a musical “hero” by Rolling Stone, has collaborated with and won accolades from diverse stars in the music world, and wowed audiences on world tours and TV.?

For this special evening, Shimabukuro will be joined by the full Maui Pops Orchestra, adding a lush symphonic accompaniment for an even greater occasion.?

Tickets are $45, $55, $65 or $85 (plus applicable fees); call 242-SHOW.