Christopher Davis-Shannon

Christopher Davis-Shannon, based in London, is recognized as a ukulele performer, educator, and composer. He is active in both performance and educational settings, including ukulele festivals. His performance style integrates various influences, from historical ukulele masters like George Formby and May Singhi Breen to more complex harmonic structures, developing a unique sound. His repertoire includes pieces from the American songbook, Hawaiian standards, Brazilian bossa nova, and original compositions, demonstrating a broad musical range.

As an educator, Davis-Shannon provides private instruction and conducts clinics at festivals and for folk music organizations. He has authored books that focus on ukulele technique, covering baroque campanella to adaptations of clawhammer banjo, and rhythmic studies based on George Formby’s work. He has also contributed articles on chord theory and rhythm to various ukulele publications, sharing his knowledge with a wider audience. His teaching methodology focuses on not just how to play chords but also their theoretical origins and practical application.

Davis-Shannon’s compositions span different genres, from pieces that align with the Great American Songbook to instrumental works influenced by classical minimalism. An example of his compositional work is the album “FIFTY/50,” which features accordionist Jaques Pellarin. He also manages “The Tin Man’s Magic Ukulele Club,” an online platform offering hundreds of lessons, live streams, and educational resources for ukulele enthusiasts.