Stories

Kanekoa Takes the Ukulele on a Long, Strange Trip

Playing what it describes as “ukulele-powered Hawaiian reggae fusion rock from Maui,” Kanekoa is riding a wave of renewed interest in the ukulele.

A Day in the Life: Peek Into the World of 7 Unique Ukers

By Whitney Phaneuf Meet seven diverse artists—some who make their living playing uke, others who perform for the love of it (after working a day job)—and find out what inspires them and what they aspire to. Julia Nunes: Cool and Casual…

Feasting on the Uke: Food, Travel, and Music Combine at These Festivals and Workshops

BY KAREN PETERSON If playing the ukulele stimulates your appetite for more, here’s a nourishing tip—find ukulele workshops that place as much emphasis on good food as good music. “Enjoying good food and wine can equate to a passion for…

Feasting on the Uke Recipes: Heidi Swedberg’s New Mexico Red Chili Sauce and More

Here's the recipe for Heidi Swedberg’s basic New Mexico red chili sauce, great for huevos rancheros and much, much more.

Review: Eastman’s Archtop Concert Ukulele Is Easy on the Eyes and Ears

Archtop instruments have an almost mystical quality. To some, they’re the height of the luthier’s art, a labor-intensive instrument crafted to meet the needs of the most talented musicians. Perhaps part of the mystique is way these instruments are made.…

Jazz Singer-Songwriter Gracie Terzian and Her Harp Ukulele Are Turning Heads

By Pat Moran Not too long ago, 24-year-old jazz singer and songwriter Gracie Terzian was watching ukulele videos on YouTube when she saw “this crazy instrument.” The instrument in question was a harp ukulele, “a normal ukulele with an extra arm…

Review: Opal Instruments’ New Aluminum-Framed Ukes Are Showstoppers

Opal ukuleles are professional-grade instruments built with an aluminum frame, mahogany neck, and onboard electronics.

Got a Pet? Got a Uke? Take a Photo for Our Next Issue

No cats were harmed in the above photo session! That’s actually my cat, Debbie, a sassy 10-year-old tabby who hates when I stop petting her and pick up my ukulele. For our upcoming Spring issue, we’re requesting your best pet…

Preview Ukulele Winter 2015, the Lifestyle Issue

Enter the world of the uke lifestyle and its vibrant community. This special section features a snapshot into the lives of 7 diverse players, including: Julia Nunes, Erin McGrane (of Victor & Penny), Ben Ahn, Brit Rodriguez, Mike Hind, Rio…

How to Change Your Ukulele Strings in 7 Easy Steps

Here's how to change your ukulele strings in 7 easy steps. (Bonus: changing strings is also the quickest and cheapest way to enhance the sound of your ukulele!)