A Close Look at the Fine Details That Make Vintage Ukuleles So Beautiful
This article is an exploration of all the little things that make vintage ukuleles both attractive and functional: from inlaid headstocks to decorative soundholes.
Stories
Gods of Uke: Classical Master and Historian John King Treated the Ukulele With the Dignity it Deserves
Classical master and historian John King was a true pioneer in the ukulele universe. He applied his classical guitar training to ukulele and took the instrument seriously.
Gods of Uke: George Formby’s Tremendous Impact on Pop Culture
Ukulele superstar George Formby became the UK’s highest-paid entertainer and favorite of a queen and The Beatles, leaving a lasting impression on pop culture.
Fall Forecast: Ukulele Fests! September, October, and November 2022
Here is an assortment of ukulele festivals and events taking place around the U.S. during September, October, and November 2022.
Advertisement
Goddess of Uke: May Singhi Breen, The Ukulele Lady
May Singhi Breen, "The Ukulele Lady," got the New York Musician's Union to include the ukulele on its list of instruments and created a teaching method for the instrument on the mainland.
Eden & John‘s East River String Band are Masters of the Old Groove
Eden & John‘s East River String Band, with artist R. Crumb as a member playing ukulele, resuscitates obscure old blues, early country, jug band, and the occasional pop tune.
Remembering Bruddah Iz: 25 Years After his Death, Israel Kamakawiwo‘ole Still Melts Hearts and Inspires
Iz will always be most remembered for his voice & ukulele medley of two great American standards: “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” and “What a Wonderful World.”
The 1920s Ukulele Craze Coincided with the Rapid Rise of American Football
The rise of ukulele popularity in the 1920s coincided with the Golden Age of Spectator Sports, as shown by the vintage ukes shown here.
Advertisement
Harp Ukulele Specialist Gracie Terzian Has Followed Her Own Road
Though her debut album hit #3 on the Billboard Jazz chart, harp ukulele specialist Gracie Terzian describes her musical endeavors as a singer-songwriter in more of the folk genre, with jazz harmonies.
Repairing, Restoring, and Building Ukuleles with a ‘Quiet Giant’ of Lutherie, Kerry Char
Char Lutheries, in Portland Oregon, is the name of Kerry Char's one-man shop where he repairs, restores and builds custom ukuleles with exacting precision and passion.