Ukulele Manifesto

While most ukuleles look like mini guitars, other popular forms have emerged--the Bell, the Pineapple, the Fluke. The variety may be due to the uke's reputation as a whimsical, "fun" instrument, inspiring non-conformity in design; and the uke's small size makes design experiments cheaper and easier.

For someone like me who likes to design and make things of wood, and who also likes ukulele music, the uke's design possibilities have proven irresistible. I have not been immune to the whimsy factor either. The results, you see here on this blog.

I make ukuleles at 2nd Chance Wood Co. in Durand, MI (https://www.facebook.com/pg/2ndchancewood/posts/?ref=page_internal) . The ukes are made entirely of recycled wood from old Michigan barns and urban reclaimed wood. The instruments are for sale at the 2nd Chance store in Durand, MI. Individuals or dealers may also contact me at raberdavid@yahoo.com.

Saturday, September 28, 2019

Oaken Shield Tenor

Introducing the mighty "Oaken Shield" ukulele, tenor size, Who makes a ukulele entirely out of oak, which is not supposed to be a "tonewood"? I just did, and it sounds great, IMHO--excellent volume and tone. Play it soft and low or hard and fast--the solidity and heft of this uke make it suitable for that whole range. It's Beauty AND the Beast all rolled into one. --Dave raberdavid@yahoo.com https://www.facebook.com/2ndchancewood/