Ukulele Me Crazy

CD RELEASE PARTY THIS SUNDAY

2010-09-08T16:05:00.000-07:00

CD RELEASE PARTY THIS SUNDAY @ ALOHA TOWER MARKETPLACE GORDON BIERSCH! EVERYONE IS WELCOME! PLEASE COME DOWN AND SUPPORT LOCAL MUSIC! THE LINEUP IS:

HEART AND SOUL (Jody Kamisato and Chris Salvador)
BRUCE SHIMABUKURO
The UKULOLOS (Tyler Gilman, Matt Kobayashi, Gavin Ono)
Special Guest - Mark Kinoshita

5:30 PM to 8:30 PM

It should be great fun, and I hope to see you all there.

MAHALO!

Martin 3K Soprano 2010

2010-08-25T16:25:00.001-07:00

Aloha,

Here is a new Martin 3K Soprano ukulele. This is one of the nicest 3K that I have come across over the years. Martin is known for great quality and tone. This ukulele is no exception. I was particularly impressed with the even curl that is consistent on the front, back, and sides. This instrument is all solid Hawaiian Koa, with a mahogany neck. Ebony fingerboard. Koa faceplate and bridge. Nitro satin finish. Friction tuners. Custom TKL hardshell case. B/W/B/W/B/W/B purfling on the top, back, and down the fingerboard. Ivoroid binding on the top and back. Abalone snowflake position markers. Ivoroid "moustache" inlay at the base of the soundboard.

This is a very pretty ukulele. It is currently available at Ukulele Puapua. Please email for pricing. Thanks for looking.

Mahalo,

Tyler

Bruce Live at DFS for I love Ukulele Day

2010-08-05T12:38:00.000-07:00

Aloha,

Yesterday was I love Ukulele day at the DFS Waikiki. Bruce and Brian played a

very nice set for the crowd, and workshops were conducted to introduce newcomers to

the joys of the ukulele. It was a great day, and I think that everyone enjoyed the experience.

Thanks to all that were involved and participated including Bruce, Brian, Jake, Jody, Chris, the Ukulele Hale students, and Ukulele Puapua.

Mahalo,

Tyler

UGH VINTAGE UKULELE DISPLAY

2010-08-03T23:40:00.001-07:00

Aloha,

These are the vintage ukuleles that were exhibited at the UGH Exhibition last week at the Blaisdell Center. These instruments are all at least 50 years old, and most are much older. They are all in nice condition, some of them are in excellent condition. This collection would be extremely difficult to put together nowadays. There are also a couple of machetes in there. These were the precursors to the ukulele. Build by original immigrants from Maderia off of the coast of Portugal, these 5 string concert-tenor sized instruments are very, very rare. Thanks to everyone that participated in the event for making it such a fun and positive experience. This collection of vintage ukuleles was the cherry on top.

Mahalo,

Tyler

Ukulele Guild of Hawaii 07-2010 Exhibition

2010-08-02T00:21:00.000-07:00

Aloha,

The Ukulele Guild of Hawai'i held an exhibition this past weekend in conjunction with the Hawaii Collector's Expo at the Blaisdell Arena. The event was a great chance for people in the ukulele to come together and share our love for the instrument with others. The expo had good attendance, and there was also great live music played on both days. Here are some of the vendors and ukulele makers that set up booths in support of UGH. Kimo Hussey, MGM, Kanile'a, Ana'ole, Pahu Kani, Raven, Dan Ratliff, Mr. James Kojiro, Mike Chock and Hana Lima Ia, R & L, and of course Ukulele Puapua! Thanks to everyone that came and supported.

Mahalo,

Tyler

Road Toad Baritone UBASS Koa

2010-07-28T13:52:00.000-07:00

Aloha,

Here is the second in the Road Toad UBASS series. These instruments came through the store and ended up with a local family of musicians. Recently, they broght the instruments in for servicing, and were gracious enough to allow me to photograph them to share with you. This Ukulele Bass is made out of curly Hawaiian Koa. The neck is Mahogany, with a herringbony style double stringer running down the back. Hipshot tuners. Macassar ebony fingerboard, custom bridge, full binding, heelcap, nut, saddle, and headstock logo inlay. Pick up. This is one of the finest UBASS that Mr. Holt has produced in my opinion. They are now exceedingly hard to come by. This instrument is not available. Thanks for looking.

Mahalo,

Tyler

Road Toad Big Buffo Tenor UBASS Koa

2010-07-28T13:41:00.000-07:00

Aloha,

Here's one from the archives for you. This is a Road Toad Ukulele Bass. It is a Tenor Big Buffo model in curly Hawaiian Koa. This instrument came through the shop a few years ago and went to a local family of musicians. They recently brought the instrument in for servicing, and I had the opportunity to document it, which the owners graciously agreed to. This UBASS is Koa with a mahogany neck. Very nice burled rosette, binding, and stringer. Ebony fingerboard and bridge. Hipshot tuners. Fretless fingerboard. Body-through stringing. Pick up. This is one of the nicest UBASS that I have come across. This instrument is not available. Thanks for looking.

Mahalo,

Tyler

Martin 5K Soprano 2010

2010-07-28T13:31:00.000-07:00

Aloha,

Here is a 2010 Martin 5K Soprano ukulele. This is the flagship model for Martin, and has been high on the wish list of ukulele afficionados for the last 90 years or so. This ukulele is made out of solid curly Hawaiian Koa. Mahogany neck. Ebony fingerboard. Abalone purfling on the front and the back. Abalone rosette, position markers, and headstock scrolling. White binding on all of the body, and the fingerboard. B/W/B/W/B binding on the body ( inside and outside of purfling). Pressure stamp on the back of the headstock and the soundhole. Custom Martin hardshell case. Thanks for looking.

Mahalo,

Tyler

Kanile'a K-PA Concert 2010

2010-07-28T13:22:00.000-07:00

Aloha,

Here is the 2010 Kanile'a K-PA Concert. This beautiful ukulele is made out of solid Hawaiian culry Koa. Mahogany neck. Abalone rosette and position markers. Rosewood fingerboard and bridge. Pin set bridge. Gold Grover sidegear tuners. Tortoise binding. T.R.U cantilevered bracing system. UV cured high grade polyester finish. These ukuleles look and play just great. I have used a Kanile'a tenor myself for the last few years with fantastic results. Be sure to visit the Kanile'a factory for a very interesting tour as well!

Mahalo,

Tyler

I'iwi Gold Label Concert 3A Koa

2010-07-28T13:14:00.000-07:00

Aloha,

Here is a Concert sized I'iwi Gold Label model 3A in curly Hawaiian Koa. These ukuleles are made on the west side of O'ahu one at a time by one builder. The attention to detail, tone, and aesthetics are all top notch. This ukulele is all solid Koa, with a mahogany neck. Ebony fingerboard, bridge, and faceplate. Bloodwood binding on both the top and the back. Abalone Maile Lei motif rosette. Abalone and M.O.P. logo inlay on the headstock. Grover friction tuners. Hand rubbed oil varnish. M.O.P. position markers. Bone nut and saddle. This model is usually available at Ukulele Puapua in Waikiki.

Mahalo,

Tyler

Moore Bettah Wave Tenor Slothead Koa

2010-07-25T22:46:00.003-07:00

Aloha,

Here is a Tenor slothead ukulele from Moore Bettah of the Big Island of Hawaii. This ukulele is made of solid Hawaiian curly Koa wood. Ebony fingerboard, faceplate, bridge, full body binding, bottom strip, heel cap, and soundhole bindings. B/W/B purfling on the top, back, rosette, and headstock. Abalone rosette, headstock motif, bridge accent, and position markers. Slotted headstock with gold Grover tuners. Spanish Cedar neck. Player's side soundhole. High grade nitro gloss finish. #1019.

These ukuleles are exceedingly well made, and hard to come across. This is a new instrument. It is currently available at Ukulele Puapua in Honolulu. Please email or call for more information.

Thanks for looking.

Mahalo,

Tyler

Ryo Natoyama/ Urabe Custom Sycamore Tenor

2010-07-25T21:17:00.000-07:00

Aloha,

Here is a custom Tenor sized ukulele made of Sycamore by Ryo Natoyama and Urabe String Works in Kyoto, Japan. This ukulele's body is entirely Sycamore, a hardwood from the Maple family. This Sycamore is very figured, much like you would use for violin or viola construction. The neck is of the same material. Rosewood fingerboard, bridge, and faceplate. Abalone inlays on the fingerboard, rosette, full top panel purfling, logo with scrolling, and name on fingerboard. Zero fret makes for low action and less buzz. Gotoh open gear tuners. High grade nito finish. Pickup system ( MiSi ? ). Full binding on top/back/heelcap. Strap buttons. Custom lable featuring Ryo as an assistant builder. Dated 3/2008.

This is a great ukulele. Ryo went to learn and build with Mr. Urabe in Kyoto. He is also an acclaimed ukulele player and composer. All of this has been accomplished before Ryo has graduated from high school! If you have not seen him play, then I would encourage you to do so. If you are an ukulele afficionado who has yet to attempt building, I hope this will inspire you to try your hand at luthiery as well. Thanks to the Natoyama family for allowing me to feature this instrument.

Mahalo,

Tyler

Aloha Yokohama Japan Trip July 2010

2010-07-25T21:03:00.000-07:00

Aloha,

Here are some shots from my recent trip to Japan for the Aloha Yokohama Festival. Thanks to everyone that came down to the booth to say hello. It was nice to catch up with all of you. There are also some shots of Yokohama and Tokyo in this post. Ochanomizu, Akihabara, Shibuya, Ippudo (yummy ramen), a Fender electric mandolin, a parlor guitar custom shop Martin, a Kawika Koa Guitar, some LPs, The Aloha Yokohama event, the Puapua booth at the HTJ section of the event.

Mahalo to everyone for always making me feel at home when I travel to Japan. Looking forward to the next trip!

Mahalo,

Tyler

DeVine Concert Hibiscus #111

2010-07-11T16:54:00.000-07:00

Aloha,

Here is a DeVine Concert ukulele in curly Hawaiian Koa. This ukulele is very easy to play and has a warm, rich tone. The sustain is also excellent. This instrument has an all koa body with a mahogany neck. Ebony faceplate, bridge, fingerboard, heelcap, and tuner buttons. Koa binding on the top and bottom, as well as the fingerboard. Paua/abalone/MOP/tahitian logo inlay. MOP position markers. Radiused fingerbaord. Kasha hybrid bracing. Bridge doctor. High grade nitro gloss finish. Custom Ameritage hard shell case. This instrument is currently avaialble. Please contact ukulele Puapua.

Mahalo

DeVine Tenor Redwood #110

2010-07-07T14:47:00.000-07:00

Aloha!,

Here is a Tenor ukulele from DeVine Guitar and Ukulele of Maui. This instrument has curly Hawaiian Koa back and sides, with a Redwood top. Solid curly Hawaiian Koa neck! The tone is rich and full. Ebony fingerboard, bridge, faceplate, heelcap, and tuner buttons. Red bloodwood purfling on the top and the fingerboard. Curly Koa binding on the body, the bottom strip, and the fingerboard. Abalone/MOP/paua/tahitian logo inlay. MOP position markers. High grade nitro gloss finish. Hybrid Kasha bracing. Bridge Doctor. Matured in the "pink box". Koa rosette. New Bridge design! Waverly geared tuners. Spruce bracing. Player's side port. Compensated nut and saddle. Radiused fingerboard. Ameritage custom hard shell case. Fantastic! This instrument is available as of this post. Please contact Ukulele Puapua. Thanks for looking.

Mahalo,

Tyler

Pegasus Offset Tenor Koa - Mango

2010-04-17T19:54:00.000-07:00

Here is a Pegasus ukulele from Bob Gleason on the Big Island of Hawaii. Pegasus is one of the most respected boutique builders in the ukulele world. He has been building custom ukulele and guitars for years now. This particular instrument was his personal instrument for a couple of years. It is in excellent condition, and has been outfitted with a MiSi pickup. The body is of curly koa and curly mango. The neck is Spanish Cedar. Indian rosewood fingerboard, bridge, faceplate, and bottom strip. Abalone purfling on the soundboard, rosette, and heelcap. MOP logo, and abalone position markers. Koa and mango bindings. Dovetail neck joint. Micarta nut and saddle. Nitro lacquer high gloss finish. Excellent instrument. If you would like this ukulele, please contact Ukulele Puapua for more information. Mahalo.

Moore Bettah Dragonfly Tenor

2010-04-17T12:46:00.001-07:00

Hello,

I am very sorry for the delays in posting lately. Needless to say, it has been a busy year so far. I am not going to stop the blog. I will try to post regularly again. Here is a Tenor ukulele in curly Hawaiian Koa from Chuck Moore of Moore Bettah Ukuleles. One of the finest in tone, playability, looks, and craftsmanship. Spanish Cedar neck. Hand cut rope binding on the top, bottom, headstock, rosette, and bridge accent. Rosewood fingerboard, bridge, heelcap, and soundhole bindings. Hand cut shell inlaid with a dragonfly motif. Gold Waverly style Grover tuners with black buttons. High gloss nitro lacquer finish. MOP posotion markers. #1005. If you are interested in this instrument, please contact Ukulele Puapua for more details. Mahalo.

Kawika Concert Hawaiian Koa

2010-03-13T23:40:00.001-08:00

Here is a Kawika Concert ukulele in very curly Hawaiian Koa by Mr. David Kawika Hurd of the Big Island of Hawaii. I was graciously allowed to photograph this instrument from a client who came to town for the ukulele picnic last month. This ukulele is Hawaiian Koa front back and sides, with a koa neck as well! The fingerboard and bridge are ebony, and it is equipped with friction tuners. A nice 5 layer bwbwb rosette adorns the soundboard. This ukulele sounds and plays great. Thanks for the photo op! Mahalo.

Ukuleles Anonymous 02/23/10 LIVE AT BLACK DIAMOND IN WAIKIKI!!!

2010-02-20T14:12:00.000-08:00

Aloha,

We will be having another live show this coming Tuesday Evening at the Black Diamond club in the Waikiki Trade Center Building. Tickets are $10 pre-sale through Ukulele Puapua, and $12 at the door. 21 and over are welcome. Doors will open at 7:30 PM and the show will get started at 8:00 PM. Validated parking will be $3 in the Trade Center Parking. This is the 3rd Ukuleles Anonymous monthly event, and I would like to thank everyone that has supported us! This month, we have two very special guests. Mr. Bruce Shimabukuro will be joining us along with Mr. Jody Kamisato! Then, Ukulolo will play. Gavin Ono, Shawn Matsuoka, and Tyler Gilman. It should be a great evening of ukulele! I look forward to everyone coming down and joining us. Please call 923-9977 for ticketing or questions. Thank you for your support. See you on Tuesday!

Mahalo,

Tyler

NAMM PART 4 (GUITARS)

2010-02-01T14:53:00.001-08:00

This will be the last of the NAMM show postings. Today I am showing the individual guitars that impressed me. The most imcredible was the Martin D-100. There are only one of these made every year, specifically for the NAMM show. There were also a couple of double necked instruments, and some cool electrics as well. I am not really an expert in guitars, so I will not provide too many specifics. I hope that you enjoy them, and I will be back to ukuleles from the next posting. Mahalo!

NAMM PART 3 (UKULELES)

2010-01-31T18:40:00.000-08:00

Breedlove basic tenor.

Breedlove Myrtle Tenor

Blackbird Carbon Fiber Tenor

Collings Spruce Top Tenor

Road Toad Curly Koa Concert U-BASS

KALA MINI MAHOGANY UKE

COLLINGS ARCHTOP TENOR

ARCHTOP COLLINGS BACK (GOLD PORE FILLER)

ARCHTOP COLLINGS TENOR TOP

NATIONAL RESONATOR CHROME CONCERT

NATIONAL RESONATOR SUNBURST CONCERT

SANTA CRUZ GUITAR UKULELES

ROAD TOAD U-BASS INVENTOR MR. OWEN HOLT

W/ 5 STRING JAZZ U-BASS TENOR

MARTIN UKULELES

COLLINGS SUNBURST TENOR

COLLINGS SUNBURST TENOR BACK

KIWAYA USA MASTER MODEL 3K

KALA MINI KOA UKE

NUNES STYLE ANUENUE

This is the third installment in the NAMM report for 2010. Today I will cover the ukuleles that were new for NAMM. There was much more attention being payed to ukulele this year, and many new models to try out. A wide variety of new ukuleles were produced this year from entry level beginner models, to very high end custom pieces. I hope that you enjoy the ukuleles!

Mahalo

Jake Shimabukuro's 95 Custom Kamaka

2010-01-30T15:36:00.000-08:00

Aloha,

A few days ago at Ukulele Puapua in the Sheraton Waikiki, we had a special visitor stop by the store. Jake Shimabukuro came in to say hello and go to lunch with Bruce! He was carrying a vintage looking case with him, and everyone wanted to know what was in the case. It was a ukulele that he had comissioned from Kamaka Hawaii in 94 and received in 95. Built under the Samuel Kamaka Luthier custom label, it was actually fabricated by Casey Kamaka. This rare instrument is in between the sizes of a soprano and a concert. Sort of a long necked standard that was ahead of it's time. It is built in the classic Sam Kamaka custom style. Bell shaped body with flat bottom, flared lower bouts, and squared narrow shoulders on the upper bouts. This ukulele boasts curly koa back and sides, with a finely graduated spruce top. Rosewood binding on the front and the back of the body. B/W/B wood purfling on the soundboard, and on either side of the rosewood rosette. Rosewood bottom strip and heel cap. Ebony fingerboard and bridge. Solid 5A koa neck with dark koa stringer. Schaller sidegear tuners. M.O.P. front and side position markers. This ukulele appears to have been originally set up for an active pickup with a metal 9V battery housing built into the neck block, but at some point was retrofitted with a passive or hybrid pickup. This ukulele is in excellent condition for being 15 years old.

Thank you to Jake for allowing me to post his ukulele on this blog, and for coming to visit us at the store! Mahalo.

NAMM PART 2 (BOOTHS)

2010-01-25T19:58:00.000-08:00

Santa Cruz ukulele corner

Kala Ukulele Booth/ Ukulele Underground viedo shoot

Bootsie Collins

Balalaika and lute style ukuleles

Rickenbacker booth

PRS Electric Guitar Booth

Martin Ukulele corner

MISI pickup booth

Breedlove

Santa Cruz guitar booth

Flea and Fluke booth

Kiwaya/LoPrinzi booth

Collings guitar/ukulele/mandolin

Kamaka Ukulele Booth

Nalu Ukulele Booth

Ko'olau Guitar and Ukulele Booth

Blackbird carbon fiber ukulele and guitars.

Taylor Electric Room

R. Taylor section. Beautiful instruments.

Gretch room/ Rockabilly stage

Fender Room

Fender Telecaster booth

Fender Ukuleles

Eastman Guitars. Great archtops.

Gibson room/booth was much smaller this year than in the past.

Gotoh tuners.

Ibanez electric guitars

Gretch drums.

Oscar Schmidt ukulele wall.

MacPherson Guitars. Phenomenal instruments.

Let's continue with the NAMM tour. This entry will be focused on the various stringed instrument and related booths that were attending NAMM. These booths allow us to see what products the manufacturer is going to introduce this year, and also gives us a chance to try them out, and see what the quality is like. Instruments can look great, but if they don't play well, then there's really no point in persuing them. Here are some of what I consider to be the highlights of the show, as far as booths go. Some of these are not ukulele related, but should be fun for all fans of stringed instruments. Mahalo,

Tyler

NAMM PART 1

2010-01-24T23:54:00.000-08:00

Kenny G

Peter Frampton

Taylor Guitar

A floor for pianos also.

This will be a 5 or 6 part series on the NAMM show that recently finished in Los Angeles. The event is held annualy at the Anaheim Convention Center, and is a convention for those in the retail music industry. It is difficult to describe the environment. Over one hundred thousand people attend, and the center itself is gigantic. Lots of loud music. Strange people. Instrument afficionados, builders, distributors, retailers, artists, A&R reps, media, etc.. Today is just to try and give you an idea of the scope of the event. All instruments are represented from the ukulele to tuba. As the series continues we will look at the great ukuleles and other instruments that were made this NAMM so special. Mahalo

Ko'olau Deluxe Slothead Tenor

2010-01-12T00:16:00.000-08:00

Aloha,

Here is a Ko'olau Deluxe Slothead tenor from Noah Kitakis of Ko'olau Guitar and Ukulele in Wahiawa on Oahu. They build some of the finest ukuleles available, and this instrument is no exception. All curly Hawaiian Koa body. Mahogany one piece neck. Slotted headstock. Ebony binding on the top and back, faceplate, bridge, fingerboard, heelcap, and bottom strip. Wavely sidegear slothead tuners in gold. M.O.P. position markers, bridge pin accents, and logo inlays. Abalone rosette. Rope purfling. High gloss mirror finish. Ko'olau harshell case.

This ukulele plays very nicely, and has a full tone with great sustain. It is one of the finest pieces that we currently have available. This instrument is located in the Sheraton Waikiki store. $2,800. Please let me know if you would like more information about the instrument. Mahalo.

Moore Bettah Slothead Bamboo Tenor

2010-01-10T22:38:00.000-08:00

Aloha,

Here is a Moore Bettah Tenor Slothead Ukulele with a bamboo theme from Mr. Chuck Moore of Big Island fame. We are very fortunate at Puapua to get instruments from Mr. Moore from time to time, and I would like to share one of them with you. This custom tenor has a body that is all solid curly Hawaiian Koa. Mahogany one piece neck with slotted headstock. Ebony binding on top and back, bottom strip, headstock faceplate, neck heelcap, nut, rosette and sidehole binding, bridge, and fingerboard. Paua abalone rosette, full purfling, brige accent, position markers, headstock purfling, and headstock inlay. Grover sidegear slothead tuners in gold. Bone saddle. Bound fingerboard. Passive undersaddle piezo pickup. High gloss mirror finish. Spruce bracing. Player's soundhole. Radiused fingerboard.

The slotted headstock makes for an instrument with great balance that is light to the touch, and comfortable to play. Moore Bettah ukuleles always have very nice low action, and a great full sustain. This instrument is currently on hold, and unavailable. We have other Moore Bettah ukuleles, if you are interested, please contact Ukulele Puapua. Mahalo!

New Sheraton Store

2010-01-04T15:25:00.001-08:00

Aloha,

Ukulele Puapua has opened it's newest location in the Sheraton Waikiki. Please come down and join us in celebrating the Grand Opening. All products are 15% off during this two week sale! We are also pleased to offer free beginner's lessons at 4 PM daily. We also have a free beginner's lesson with Bruce Shimabukuro at 10 AM on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday. Thank you for your business, and we hope that we can count on your continued support. I will be back to posting instruments again soon!

Mahalo,

Tyler

Ukuleles Anonymous 12/29/09 Live Photos

2009-12-30T14:33:00.000-08:00

Aloha,

I want to thank everyone that came out for the Ukuleles Anonymous debut live show in Waikiki. It was held at the Lotus Sound Bar on Kuhio Avenue, and we got a great turnout. The show lasted from 9:15PM until about midnight. I would also like to thank our co-sponsor Good Life promotions, and Ukulele Puapua. I was on ukulele and lead vocal. Gavin Ono of Halau I ka Wekiu fame was on upright bass, and Shawn Matsuoka was on Lap Steel and acoustic guitar. We would like to run this as a monthly event, and I hope that I can count on your support in the future. Thank you for supporting the local music scene. Mahalo!

Tyler

D'angelico Tenor Tiple Ukulele

2009-12-29T20:22:00.001-08:00

Aloha,

John D'angelico (1905-1964) built some of the finest archtop guitars ever made. He learned how to make instruments from his great uncle Signor Ciani who was famed for his mandolin and flat top guitars. Mr. D'angelico further studied violin making and the classical influence is apparent in his f-hole archtops. He was able to produce about 35 instruments a year at the peak of production. While D'angelico guitars are not noted for exceptional power or volume, they do possess an exceptionally smooth mellow tone, fantastic sustain, and such balance that every note up and down the fingerboard is said to ring with the same clarity and volume. These instruments are excellent for stage or studio. D'angelico mandolins are exceedingly rare as well. There were only 3 ukuleles made by John D'angelico. One is a Spruce top Tenor that resides in the American Guitar Museum in New York. The second is a mahogany standard from the 30s. The last is this Tenor Sunburst Tiple. Perhaps the only D'angelico ukulele that is available on the open market.

This instrument is available through Ukulele Puapua. Please inquire with Tyler for more details, or to set up a viewing of the instrument. Mahalo.

Ukulele Guild of Hawaii 2009

2009-12-22T23:12:00.001-08:00

From left to right. Mike Chock Tenor, Road Toad Tenor, Road Toad Soprano.

Eric DeVine's full custom parlor guitar. Holy Moley. Yes please.....

I think that my personal favorite this year was this jigsawed tenor ukulele. I have never seen anything like it. What a great idea.

Here is a very creative double necked ukulele (8 string Tenor, and 4 string Concert) from Pahu Kani 'ukulele. Awesome!

Aki from Puapua with Mr. Eric DeVine.

Rising star of the 'ukulele Mr. Kalei Gamiao. If you haven't checked out Kalei's debut CD, shame on you. U bettah go try for listen! Here he shares his stunning full custom Kamaka Tenor.

Mr Takahashi of T's Guitar/Ukulele in Japan (two time winner of Best in Show UGH), along with Kuni Matsui (ukulele insider), and the one and only Ohta San.

Kimo Hussey has been a great supporter of both the UGH and 'ukulele in general. Here he shares a rare Baritone 6 string from Eric DeVine of Lahaina.

Dan Ryerson of Moloka'i shared this Tenor with Florentine cutaway and slotted headstock.

John Ravary's arch top ukuleles. I have been trying to get luthiers to take me up on this for years. These ukuleles are great.

Gavin and I pack up after a live set for the Guild attendees.

"Roy" San from Japan with Owen Holt of Road Toad and his Jazz Uke Bass.

Your truly with the asymmetrical Road Toad tenor.

Aloha,

Here are some shots from the Ukulele Guild of Hawai'i that was held at the Princess Kaiulani Hotel on November 20-21 of this year. The Ukulele Guild is held yearly in Honolulu as an opportunity for local professional and hobbyists to come and showcase their works. This is also an excellent opportunity for ukulele afficionados to do some reasearch and drooling. Lots of drooling. Anyhow, this is the event through which I have gotten to know some of the finest builders both here and abroad. Lately, this event has seen entries from Hawai'i, the mainland U.S., and even Japan! I hope that you will all mark your calendars now for next year's UGH. It is usually held on the weekend of the third week of November. Mahalo!

Tyler and Gavin live in Waikiki at Lotus Club 12/29/09

2009-12-22T00:13:00.000-08:00

Aloha,
Thank you for enjoying the blog, and all or your support. I would like to invite all of you to an event that I will be co-hosting on the 29th of December at 9PM. I will be playing live with two good friends for the first time in a Waikiki club. The show will be at the Lotus Sound Bar which is located at 2301 Kuhio Avenue. This show is for anyone 21 and over, and tickets are available for pre-sale at Ukulele Puapua for $8/$10 at the door. I look forward to the opportunity of being able to share some of my favorite music with you.

Mahalo,
Tyler

Graziano Tenor Plumeria Custom in Maple and Spruce

2009-12-10T21:36:00.000-08:00

Aloha,

Here is a very special Tenor from Tony Graziano in Santa Cruz, California. Mr Graziano has been building custom ukuleles for over 20 years, and his eye for detail is evident in his work. This ukulele has flame maple back and sides with a tightly lined Sitka spruce top. Ivoroid binding on the top, back, fingerboard, and headstock. Ebony bridge, fingerboard, headstock, and heelcap. Full Abalone inlay on the top, back, bottom, rosette, faceplate, and back-ceter strip. M.O.P. Plumeria motif position markers at the 3rd, 5th, 7th, 10th, 12th, and 15th frets, as well as on the headstock including logo inlay. Solid curly maple neck. Peghead vintage style geared tuners. High gloss finish, and Aquila strings. This is one of the finer Graziano ukuleles that I have come across. I was graciously allowed to photograph it by a customer of Puapua's. Mahalo!

Hawaiian Style Soprano by G-String 1st Generation

2009-12-08T23:13:00.000-08:00

Aloha,

Here is a Hawaiian Style soprano from G-String ukulele. This is from the first generation of Hawaiian Style ukuleles. These instruments are becoming increasingly hard to come by. Especially in this condition. This ukulele is about 10 years old. The body is entirely Hawaiian Koa, and the neck is mahogany. Koa faceplate with Hawaiian Style laser tattoo. Grover tuners. Rosewood fingerboard and bridge. Hawaiian Style logo decal as the label. It is interesting to note that the Hibiscus design generally associated with the Hawaiian Style model has yet to make an appearance at this time. Thanks to a Puapua daily lesson student for allowing us to photograph her instrument. Mahalo!

Ko'olau 100SP Pineapple Soprano

2009-12-05T21:30:00.000-08:00

Aloha,

Here is a brand new Ko'olau 100SP Pineapple Soprano in very curly koa. This ukulele's body is entirely Hawaiian Koa. Mahogany neck. Ebony fingerboard, faceplate, bridge, and heelcap. Abalone rosette and position markers. M.O.P. logo inlay. Grover sidegear tuners. Spruce bracing. Satin nitro finish. Ko'olay hardshell pineapple case. This ukulele is very pretty, and is tiny and easy to play. I would recommend it for beginners as well as for those that enjoy a nice, light soprano. This one is exceptionally curly, and is available now at Ukulele Puapua. Mahalo!

Kanile'a K-1 Concert DLX Thin Curl

2009-12-03T20:33:00.001-08:00

Aloha,

Thank you for your patience. I have been busy with work, and playing music lately. Here is a Kanile'a Concert K-1 Deluxe with a very thin curl in the Hawaiian Koa. Kanile'a ukuleles are always amongst the most attractive instruments being made in Hawaii. Lately however, the koa that has been coming out of that factory in Kane'ohe has been just amazing. This instrument is very indicative of the grade of wood that has been used on DLX models consistently for the last few months. So........ now is the time to get that Kanile'a concert or superconcert that you have been drooling over for the last year or two. =) This instrument is made out of Hawaiian Koa, with a mahogany neck. The fingerboard and bridge are rosewood, and the bridge is of the pinset variety. Maple logo inlay. Grover sidegear tuners. Abalone position markers. UV cured high gloss finish. Nubone nut and saddle. Aquila strings. TRU bracing. This ukulele, and others like it are available at Ukulele Puapua. Mahalo!

G-String Custom Tenor

2009-11-26T14:31:00.000-08:00

Aloha,

Here is a G-String Tenor "full custom". This is a somewhat misleading title, as a real full custom would have some feature that is normally not standard on one of these models. A cutaway, extra inlay, different headstock, more strings, etc.. This instrument is the highest level normally available G-String tenor. The body is entirely curly Hawaiian Koa. The top features a binding. Mahogany neck. Abalone rosette, position markers, and logo inlays. Grover gold side gear tuners. Rosewood fingerboard and bridge. Spruce bracing. High gloss finish. The G-String tenor has been one of the best tenor sized ukuleles produced in quantity in Hawaii for many years now. Located in Halawa, the G-String crew makes a wide variety of regular and custom model ukuleles. Easy to play with a soft tone is how I might characterize these instruments. This instrument is now with it's new happy owner, but we can always get this model. Please contact Ukulele Puapua. Mahalo!

Island Ukulele Concert

2009-11-24T17:31:00.001-08:00

Aloha,

Here is a Concert Deluxe from Island Ukulele in Kaua'i. Island has recently upgraded their shop equipment, and the results are a more precise and accurate ukulele. The body is all very curly Hawaiian Koa. The neck is mahogany, and the bridge and fingerboard are ebony. Jumbo frets, and abalone position markers and logo inlays. White side position markers, Grover side gear tuners, Spruce bracing, GHS strings, and gloss finish. Island Ukulele also uses a bolt on neck, and there is quite a bit of ovation to the back. This ukulele is currently available for purchase. Please contact Ukulele Puapua. Mahalo!

National Resonator Mahogany Sunburst

2009-11-23T19:20:00.000-08:00

Aloha,

Here is an unusual ukulele for everyone to enjoy. This is a resonator ukulele from National. This instrument is somewhat vintage, probably from around 20-25 years ago. It is in excellent condition, and the resonator cone is still in fine condition. The body is all mahogany, with a mahogany neck, and stainless steel resonator well. There is a rosewood fingerboard, and tortoise binding and faceplate. White position markers, and grover style friction tuners. The tone of this instrument is quite clear with a pleasant twang. There are a couple of manufacturers that are currently producing a resonator style ukulele. National and Regal are the most famous, and I can also recommend Mya-Moe out of Colorado. This particular ukulele is in fine condition for it's age, and plays very easily up and down the fretboard. This ukulele is available! Please contact Ukulele Puapua. Mahalo!

Moore Bettah Soprano with Lower Bout Side Hole

2009-11-19T22:12:00.000-08:00

Aloha,

Here is a brand new Soprano with rope binding and lower bout player's side hole from Chuck Moore of the Big Island. This beautiful instrument is on par with other Moore Bettah ukuleles that I have featured from time to time. I have always maintained that these are some of the finest instruments being built in the sate of Hawaii. This particular instrument is all koa body, and koa faceplate. Mahogany neck. Rosewood fingerboard, bridge, and heelcap. Full Rope Binding on the top, back, sides, bottom strip, and headstock. Rope binding is handmade. Not prefabridated. M.O.P. logo and postition marker inlays. Grover gold sidegear tuners with ebony buttons. High gloss finish. This is one of the finest vintage style sopranos currently in production. This instrument is available. Please contact Ukulele Puapua. Mahalo!

Larrivee Standard 1996 Mahogany/Koa

2009-11-17T21:42:00.000-08:00

Aloha,

Here is an unusual ukulele for you. This is a custom soprano from Jean Larrivee. Larrivee is a very popular builder of guitars and other fine stringed instruments located in the Pacific Northwest. I became aware of Larrivee instruments while in college in Seattle WA. We would go up to Vancouver, where Larrivee instruments were being produced and drool over them. At the time, not many people on the mainland were playing ukulele, so these instruments are hard to come by, especially in this condition. This custom soprano is from 1996. the back appears to be mahogany, and the top and sides look like koa. One piece mahogany neck, ebony fingerboard, bridge, faceplate, heelcap, and bottom strip. No front position markers, only side white dots. Full abalone purfling on the soundboard. Abalone rosette and bridge accents. Maple binding on the top and the bottom. 12 fret joint. Friction tuners. This instrument has a very clear yet round tone. It is in immaculate condition for it's age. Very precise instrument. This ukulele is available for purchase, please contact Ukulele Puapua. Mahalo!

Kamaka Guitarlele Custom Baritone

2009-11-14T15:57:00.000-08:00

Aloha,

Here is a very special and rare Kamaka Guitarlele. Actually, this is really a Kamaka Parlor Guitar, as the tuning is from E to E. This ukulele is constructed of very curly Hawaiian Koa. The neck is mahogany. The fingerboard and bridge are ebony. This instrument has a slightly larger headstock than normal, and has a slightly different crown on the headstock. The nut is guitar width. Schaller side gear tuners. There is also an active pickup. The last photo is with a normal Kamaka Tenor 6 string model, so that you can get an idea of the size of the instrument. This ukulele was custom built for it's owner at the Kamaka factory on South St. in Honolulu. I have never seen anything like it. Thanks to Gavin who took the pictures and got the information so that I could share it with you. This ukulele is not available. Mahalo.

G-String Full Abalone Concert Custom

2009-11-10T22:45:00.001-08:00

Aloha,

Here is a very special G-String Full Abalone Custom Concert. This ukulele was picked up last week from G-String Ukulele in Halawa Valley, O'ahu. This ukulele is concstructed of curly Hawaiian Koa with a mahogany neck. The fingerboard, bridge, and bottom strip are Ebony, and the binding is toroise. There is full abalone purfling on the body, as well as abalone in the rosette, the position markers, and the logo. Grover side gear tuners, and high gloss lacquer finish. There are not too many of these full ab customs. This instrument plays very easily with a low action, and a soft and round tone that is easy on the ears. Many customers claim that G-String ukuleles are amongst the easiest to play. If you are interested in this ukulele, or one like it with a pickup, please contact Ukulele Puapua. Mahalo!

Kamaka Tenor Custom Spruce Top

2009-11-07T11:32:00.000-08:00

Aloha,

Here is a Kamaka Custom Tenor that was recently completed. Custom Kamaka are exceedingly hard to come by. This ukulele has some blazing curly Hawaiian Koa back and sides with a tightly lined Spruce top. Mahogany neck. Ebony bridge, fingerboard, faceplate, and buttons. M.O.P. logo. No position markers. Pro-Tec case. If you have been searching for a unique Kamaka to call your own, this may be the one! Please contact Ukulele Puapua. Mahalo!

G-String Early Soprano Yu Ishizaki

2009-11-06T11:43:00.001-08:00

Aloha,

Here is a G-String very early model from Derek Shimizu. This ukulele is from the time when Derek made all G-Strings himself. The body is all Hawaiian Koa. Mahogany neck. Koa bridge, and Rosewood fingerboard with abalone position markers. Grover friction tuners. Koa and Spruce logo inlay. This ukulele has a thicker neck than most G-Strings nowadays. There is something very full about the tone as well. As most G-String ukulele are played regularly by thier owners, you don't usually see such an old one in this condition. Very nice. Thanks again to Yu Ishizaki for letting me shoot the instrument. If any of you will be in the Waikiki area and have a ukulele that you would like to share, please let me know! Mahalo

Kamaka Concert Custom Yu Ishizaki

2009-11-03T21:13:00.001-08:00

Aloha,

Here is a custom Kamaka Custom from Yu Ishizaki. Yu San ordered this instrument for himself in 2001, and it was one of the first of the new generation Kamakas. This ukulele is completely curly Hawaiian Koa. The neck is also solid curly Koa. The bridge and fingerboard are ebony. The tuners are side gear Schaller. This ukulele is one of the best sounding and playing Kamaka concert that I have come across. In fact, I liked this instrument so much that I used it for much of the recording of Hawaiian Style Ukulele Vols. 1 and 2. Yu San is a professional sound engineer, so as you can imagine he is very particular about his instruments. I hope that you enjoyed this look at a rare custom Kamaka. Mahalo.

G-String Full Custom Tenor Triple Rosette Gavin's

2009-10-31T19:11:00.001-07:00

Aloha,

Here is a very special G-String Full Custom Tenor. This ukulele is another from the collection of Gavin Ono, who has assembled one of the finest selections of ukuleles I have seen. Especially for someone so young! Anyhow, this ukulele is made of all extremely curly Hawaiian Koa. The neck is mahogany. Ebony fingerboard and bridge. Koa faceplate and backplate ( very nice ). White binding. Abalone purfling on the soundboard. Triple abalone rosette. Abalone logo. Grover tuning pegs. This ukulele has a very unusual headstock. I have seen the G-String electric guitar style triangular headstock before. However, this ukulele's headstock is even more extreme than usual. Half the thickness of the "G-head", and with a notched top. The 'G' is also inlaid specially. This is one of the finest G-String custom tenors that I have come across. There is one issue that has developed with this instrument. It is a common issue for many ukuleles, and that is why I am featuring it. Coat checking. That is when the finish starts to spiderweb crack. It can be seen in the final picture. The lesson to be learned is to use a humidifier. Mahalo.

Moore Bettah Super Concert Custom Koi

2009-10-29T22:37:00.001-07:00

Aloha,

Here is a brand new Super Concert from Moore Bettah Ukulele on the Big Island of Hawaii. Chuck builds some of the finest ukuleles that I have ever played. Both aesthetically and tonally superior instruments. This ukulele is a long necked concert with a Koi motif inlaid onto the headstock. The body is all very curly Hawaiian Koa. Single panel top and bottom ( rare nowadays). Mahogany neck. Ebony binding on the top and bottom. Ebony fingerboard, bridge, faceplate, heelcap, and bottom strip. Gover side gear tuners with ebony buttons. Player's soundhole on the lower bout also bound in ebony. BWB purfling on the back. Abalone purfling on the soundboard. Abalone rosette, bridge accents, position markers. M.O.P. side position markers. Koi motif inlaid into headstock with abalone, M.O.P. and various semi-precious stone. Coconut palms, lilies, and Koi . This is a very fine insrument that is ideal for collectors and enthusiasts. Please contact Ukulele Puapua for more information. Mahalo!