Uke Yak Fans, Chuck "Frets" Fayne has been the resident expert for "Uke Yak" since 1998. Since that time he has answered almost 6,000 questions related to vintage ukuleles. Over many years, Chuck assembled his own world-class collection of vintage Hawaiian and Mainland ukes, including some amazing one-of-a-kind pieces. It was Chuck’s collection that made up the majority of the ukes in my book, "The Ukulele-A Visual History." Although Chuck has retired from the Uke Yak, his extensive knowledge and unique sense of humor live on in this searchable archive. Enjoy! Search the Uke Yak. Jumpin’ Jim 2015
Flea Market Music Uke Yak (191 of 296) (Chuck "Frets" Fayne has answered the following 5919 questions.)

Previous Page

Jump to page:      of 296

Next Page

Question asked by: Geoff Menzer Subject: conqueror uke banjo Question: Hello Chuck and hope you're well.I have a Lange Solo uke banjo with a fabulous sound,but its a little on the small side scale length wise.I played a conqueror uke banjo which was excellent a few weeks ago.It is very like the Lange but bigger and similar inlays in resonator etc.The owner is v attached and will not sell. So am I correct thinking it was made in NY by same factory in 20's,and if anyone has one for sale please email me. I need strings for the fabulous looking 8 string Baritone uke I got from you a few years ago.So where do I get longer 8 string uke sets and /or what gauges. Happy ukeing Geoff Answer: Geoff, get a hold of Kamaka about the strings. I am not sure about the conqueror but get it if you can. It sounds wonderful. Does anyone out there have one for sale..please let Geoff know., Thanks for thinking of us...The elves are restless and need to be fed. Write again and let us know how the hunt goes...frets and the gang.... - Friday, July 4, 2003

Question asked by: Steve Pepper Subject: Keech Long Neck Banjo Uke Question: Hi Chuck On Saturday I purchased quite a nice Keech Long Neck banjo uke. At first sight I thought it was a modernish uke that someone had put a Keech label on, I had only previously seen the short scale versions and this one was quite different. Stamped on the Back of the head is L/B 692. The neck has some 17 frets. It has been well played but is in very nice condition apart from wear around the 2nd fret due to someone using an old fashioned spring loaded capo. The case is also in nice condition and came with a single pitch pipe in "A" (it's a semitone out from concert though, so was this old or high pitch?) and a couple of original gut strings. It also has a strange piece of polished ebony nearly like a couple of "Hearts" or "Spades" back to Back. It looks like it could be some sort of mute but I haven't a clue how it would work, any ideas? Also have you any idea of when it would have been made? Or when Keeches were manufactured from and until? It looks too modern a finish at first glance but on closer inspection the patina tells me it is probably older than it looks. Kind Regards Steve Pepper Low Tide Studios Harrogate UK Photos:      Answer: Yours is a keech banjo uke for sure and the nicest one I have seen. I am jelous. I love the keech banjo uke. Alvin and Kelvin were the inventors of the Banjolele in Hawaii. They then moved to England where they continued to make ukes. They made many varieties, however they all had something in common..They were signed somewhere on the uke...Usually scratched on the back. Look and see if yours has the signature. The mute has me stumped also. Perhaps one of our loyal keepers of minutia has an idea. Write in yakkers, we need you. Thanks for sharing the pic...I will add it to my ever growing file of great stuff. Please send a pastrami sandwich next time you write...frets - Friday, July 4, 2003

Question asked by: p.v. nasby Subject: martin tenor Question: I have a Martin tenor ukulele and was wondering its age. Decal on front of peghead reads "CFMartin" "Est.1833": No imprint on back of peghead: Twelve frets to body: Four 1/8" ivoriod markers on front of fingerboard: Three 1/16" on side of fingerboard: All 18 frets are brass! Great condition/great player. My other Martins have steel frets even the old ones with bar frets. Did Martin use brass frets? Answer: Hard to give you an exact date. The 12 frets make it the earlier model, but that could span 30 years. My guess would be 30's-40's...The decal helps with this date. Before the decal the cf martin imprint was on the back of the headstock. After l960 the imprint on the inside said Made in U.S.A....If yours has brass frets, I guess, unless they are replaced, Martin used brass frets. I have two tenors, an older one like yours and a modern one and neither have brass. So there you are. We appreciate you writing in and hope you will write again...frets - Friday, July 4, 2003

Question asked by: Granjon Sylvain Subject: Do you know this uke? Question: Hello, I recently bougnht this uke, it come from Barcelona, it's a Juan Gomez from 1920. If you know something about it, please tell me. Thanks and sorry for my english, I'm french. Photos:      Answer: Sorry for my English, I'm American/australian...What you have has many names. It is the modern day forerunner of the ukulele. All cultures eventually stumbled across a four string instrument. The spanish been making this for centuries. They are a little heavier than the hawaiian ukulele, but the ones I have had tuned the same as a uke. A couple of the names are: Braghuina, cavaquino ( I know a million spellings for this word)_ and my favorite.."that four string thing".....I am not familiar with the name Juan Gomez, however I think its is the same as John Smith in our country. Best to you and Thanks for writing all the way from France. Its nice to know we are read world-wide. Best to you from all of us here...frets - Friday, July 4, 2003

Question asked by: Bill Petersen Subject: Bobby Breen Ukulele Question: I have a Bobby Breen ukulele that was my grandmother's. I have been trying to get some information about it. I contacted Bobby Breen himself and he could offer no information. Perhaps you could help me. Thanks, Bill. Photos:      Answer: You have gotten further than I have. I am not sure of the relationship, however I have seen many of the ukes. I will check around and see what I find...Perhaps Jim Beloff ( our faithful leader)...will know. Somewhere in the recesses of my failing mind, I think Jim knows more than I....Jim are you there? I know you are..come out, come out wherever you are. I understand My FLEA ukulele is on the way and I can't wait. I have heard such wonderful things about it. My mother told me, as a kid, if I didn't wash I would get fleas. Mom was wrong. I washed and I understand I am still going to have fleas. Thanks Jim and Liz...Love this site...frets and all the unwashed in Mt Idy....Wish you a happy 4th...Just looked again at the pic of the bobby breen and it is different than mine. A variation I haven't seen before. keep in touch and we will also...best..frets - Friday, July 4, 2003

Question asked by: santosha Subject: 6 string ukes Question: Hi Chuck I have a question about 6 string ukes. Many have the C and A strings doubled, and I understand the sound is very full. Are the tuned at equal octaves or not. In a search in the yak I found one response that stated that they are tuned an octave apart...a tuning and string nitemare I would think. Also in Jim Beloffs ukulele book there is a Lunes 6 string uke with the C and E strings doubled. have you heard one and if so comment on the difference in sounds it makes vs. the C/E ones. Thanks...and oh yeah Gibsons Rule! Answer: sanosha...the tuning of strings do not follow a set pattern. I have seen all combinations., It depends on your ear and what pleases you. As I have said before, the instrument is still and will always be in the experimental stages. That is one of the most appealing aspects of the ukulele. You can do what you want. I personally prefer a 5 string variety with the second string doubled an octave apart. I like the fulness of that sound. I also like the 8 string tenor with the 2nd and 3rd strings tuned an octave apart and the other two pairs the same. Kamaka does this tuning sometimes. Please experiment and let us know what appeals to you. Thanks for writing in...frets - Friday, July 4, 2003

Question asked by: GBB Subject: I need a Plastic Fingerboard Question: Hey, Chuck I just got a harmony uke off ebay, and the frets are worn off in places. I was told in the bulletin board that you may know someone with a stack of replacement fboards for sale? Or perhaps you have some lying around you don't need? Thanks for the help. Answer: I used to know someone...But cannot find them now. If you advertise your wants on the bulletin board or marketplace on this site..someone will come to the rescue. Sorry..Will keep you in mind if I fall over one...frets - Thursday, May 15, 2003

Question asked by: George Koury Subject: Sporano Ukes Question: Hi Chuck, I am looking for a good concert uke. I have been looking both Ukebrand and Koaloha. How do they compare. Do you have any other reccomendations? Many thanks, George Koury Answer: George, I cannot compare. I have not played either. However, someone out there will know the difference. Thanks for writing in and sorry I can't help more...frets - Thursday, May 15, 2003

Question asked by: John Dedeaux Subject: Tenor strings on Baritone Question: will tenor strings tuned c6 hurt a vega de lux baritone and concert strings on a martin 0 hurt it. Answer: maybe to the first half of your question and no to the last half. Now I have a question for you...WHY????? frets - Tuesday, May 13, 2003

Question asked by: Dave Miller Subject: Regal Wendall Hall TV Question: I have one of these with a light colored top in reasonable condition. Tone is pretty good. What's it worth? Also, what do you think of the Tangi Ukes. I saw some in Hawaii. Answer: I got the pic of the TVOLA..it is a standard regal t v ukulele. Worth...couple hundred bucks in great shape. Wouldn't be easy to sell. I have owned and played a few Tangi Ukes and I was not impressed. I'm sure there are many people out there who will disagree with me, but thats the way it goes. You did ask for my opinion. I would suggest some of you out in uke land write in with your opinions. He must be doing something right, I see his name on ebay all the time. - Tuesday, May 13, 2003

Question asked by: Barry Steelman Subject: Redd Foxx's Tiple Question: Hey frets. As everyone here has seen, you were fortunate enough to win Mr. Foxx’s Tiple. I grew up in Vegas and Mr. Foxx’s house was on my school bus route. I thought you might appreciate the following story (it’s all true). Redd Foxx was a terrific human being, all the kids growing up in his neighborhood knew that, and here’s just one example why. One balmy September morning in Vegas (105 F in the shade) a group of kids one my bus route was waiting at their stop. This particular bus stop happened to be at the corner in front of Mr. Foxx’s house. Redd happened to be out in his front yard running his two white mastiffs, Whitie and Cracker, and spraying them with the water hose to cool them off. Some of the kids asked Mr. Foxx if they could have a drink from the hose, and of course Redd being the guy he was, he let them, and asked if this was where they always caught the bus. He usually wasn’t up that early in the morning, Las Vegas entertainer you know. They had a nice chat, petted the dogs, and got on the bus when it came. I was already on the bus, and there was quite the buzz as they told us about the dogs and their conversation with Redd. A few days later, when the bus pulled up to that stop we noticed that the white rock wall that surrounded Mr. Foxx’s house was being torn out at the corner where the bus stop was. Over the next week or so the wall was changed to a perhaps thirty foot long curved arc protruding into Redd’s yard with a bench attached to the entire length facing the corner. A concrete pad was poured to fill out the rest of the corner and a water fountain for the kids to drink from was installed in the middle of it. All this happened because some kids ask for a drink from the hose. We loved Redd, he occasionaly would make an appearance at the bus stop after that and chat with the kids. He was a warm, funny, and caring man. All of us who knew him can’t help but smile when we run across a rerun of Sanford and Son. Enjoy his tiple, I’m sure he’s happy it’s being played and loved. Answer: thanks for the interesting story..Now if I can only get the damn thing to play. It needs a fret job..something I didn't want to have to do, but thats life. Redd, unfortunatly didn't leave any money for the work, so I have to do it myself. I feel fortunate to have the tiple and will hang on to it. Thanks for writing in and the story is great. I'm thirsty....frets - Sunday, May 11, 2003

Question asked by: Gary Ukulele CA Subject: Northern Ukuleles Question: Dear Chuck-All Knowing and Powerful Wizard of Ukes, I am looking at photos of a tenor ukulele made by Northern of Canada (assembled in Japan?). It appears to be well made. Do you have any experience with this brand of ukuleles. When I say experience I am of course refering to playing them! Thank you again! Gary Answer: I am not familiar with the Northern instrument of today. I am familiar with the J chalmers Doane Northern instrument used by schools around the world. That was a classy instrument. Strange shape..like a parralleloooeeooeegram...It had that many sides. I have not played one of the modern ones , however, someone who has, will write into this site and give their opinion. They always do...Bless their little pea-pikin' hearts....Merle Travis....Best from FE Fretsie and the Mr Idy school of Rap... - Wednesday, May 7, 2003

Question asked by: melanie Subject: happy birthday on the uke Question: i want to play happy birthday to my beau on my uke. i have looked in quite a few books and have not seen it anywhere. could you please lay it out for me? his birthday is 8 days away Answer: Melanie...If you walk into any music store and ask who plays guitar...grab him and ask him to show you the three chords you need to play Happy Birthday. It would take me forever to figure out how to lay it out for you and 3 seconds for him to show you. I assume you know the words and melody and just want the chords. If you don't know the words and melody, go to the music store anyway.. That will bring a smile to their faces. You have 8 days...You can learn it in 8 seconds and have time left to shop our on-line store, which you will find on the black menu to your left. It has dozens of books, cds, and anything you need to get to get going. I assume you don't want me to send you my latest transcriptions of the Gregorian and Melanese Chants arranged for Uke and Jews Harp....Destined to be a classic. Well, so much for now..Please wish Your Beau a Happy Birthday. ( haven't seen that word in a month of Sundays) have to run..The Mt Idy Radish Festival is starting and I have the Mylanta concession..Always a big winner...frets...and many more... - Wednesday, May 7, 2003

Question asked by: Kenneth G. Bailey Subject: Question: I'm hoping this is what "Bluesboyroy" had in mind. From 6:00 left to right, Akai, Koolau SP400, Gibson 3, Royal Hawaiian, 5K, Paul Summers, 3M and Johnny Marvin Airplane Tenor, all capable of good "head". Photos:      Answer: Now thats great head....I hope you save enough to buy the rest of the ukes...You are the first collector of just heads I have ever known...Impressive collection Mr Baily...( won't you come home)...don't forget the fine toothed comb. Best to you and yours.....by the way...how is yours....frets - Wednesday, May 7, 2003

Question asked by: D. Brakefield Subject: Picking song book Question: Chuck: I would appreciate learning if there's a ukulele picking song book out there. I've looked everywhere I can think of - but no luck. Thanks. Answer: Get on the on-line store on this site and if you can't find what you want, write jim Beloff...you will find his address at the end of the menu and ask his opinion. I do often...I find that if I wait until the Ukulele is ripe, it makes picking so much more tasty. Juan Valdez taught me that at the Mt Idy Tishabob reuinion. What a night...frets - Wednesday, May 7, 2003

Question asked by: kirk Subject: Ukulele for beginner Question: I've been playing guitar and bass for a number of years and I've been inspired to learn to play the ukulele. There are so many ukulele makers in the Islands; Kaule'a, Koaloha, Mele and no information about ratings. I'm aware of the Kamaka and Martin reputation, but they're out of my price range. I was wondering if you could recommend a good koa tenor ukulele for around $5-600 that has good tone for recording and will hold its value? Also, I noticed that many of the musicians play 5 & 6 string ukuleles. What string setup would you recommend for both strumming and picking or should I stick with 4? Thanks in advance for your response. Mahalo, Kirk Answer: Kirk..you need to go to the stores and try as many as you can. No rush, everyone is making ukes today. I would call Ken Potts at KP Ukuleles in the Islands and ask his opinion...He is there and may know many of the makers I don't. As far as the string configuration...It is a personal thing. If you take your time, you will run into what you are looking for. Try to find a Sonny D tenor made about 15 years ago. That is a fabulous instrument. I think you can still find good value in a quality instrument if you will wait it out. Go to the Marketplace and the bulletin board on this site and let you wishes be know. These nuts know everything and where it is. I'm glad I'm not Julius Rosenerg. They'd know where I was and turn me in. You can also contact David Hurd and Ukuleles by Kawika..he is an old friend and may be able to help also. Keep in touch and I will see what I can do...frets - Wednesday, May 7, 2003

Question asked by: Dana L. Richardson Subject: URL Address Question: Chuck, When I copied and pasted the site address for the instructions on "how to fit a vellum" from your site it didn't work correctly. Somewhere in the transplanting of the address from your site, a space got put into the address between the "." after "dennis" and "taylor". There is no space there, just eliminate the space and it should work. Computers have made me prematurely gray and have accelerating my hair loss...how did people get bald and gray before them? Hope this helps, Dana http://freespace.virgin.net/dennis. taylor/how_to_fit_a_vellum.htm Answer: Dana. thanks very much for the help. It must be wonderful to be fluent in a second language. What you just wrote to me was in Latin, was it not? Well, anyway for those who understand....amadi, amani, adias.... - Tuesday, May 6, 2003

Question asked by: Kevin Durston Subject: Washburn Ukulele Question: Pat pend# 9887. found among my Fathers belongings He served in the Korean War. Age of Ukulele unkown. Any ingormation would be appreciated. thanks Kevin Answer: Kevin, I have gone thru the files and the hideous book "Washburn" by John Teagle...page by page (which is the only way you can read this book..it fell apart into individual pages the day I bought it)...That coupled with the fact that you need an electron microscope to read the wording in the ads made the job a little harder. The Ukuleles fall into the numbering catagory of the 2000's-3000's. I would need a good pic of the uke front and back and then I can tell you what you have. It never occured to the company, when they put out the stack of papers book, that anyone might be interested in the actual years of patents. Just a funny story...I called the company that published the book the day I bought it..which also was the day it fell apart, and the representative asked me if I wanted another book. I answered him with," Why, so I have 394 pages to pick up instead of just 197 ?" I don't think he was very happy with me. I think I was more disappointed because Washburn/lyon & Healy is my favorite all-time instrument manufacturer. The color page teaser they sent out in advance of the book is beautiful and the only reason to own the book. I wish they were available separately. So much for that..Its early in the morning and I have already vented. Back to the Mt Idy bean fields...The "Festival of the Winds" starts next week, and this year I am going to blow the house down...Those three little pigs will not beat me again....frets p.s. the opinion expressed in this article is that of the author only..... - Tuesday, May 6, 2003

Question asked by: Michael Subject: 1950s Martin 3M soprano Question: Hi Chuck, I'm a new Uke'r, and am loving it. I have a couple of nice instruments, and a couple of ok ones, and love playing them all, and am now considering buying a very clean '50s mahogony Martin 3M (something about those vertical inlays on the fretboard...I dig 'em). The asking price is $1850. I know you can't say alot without seeing it, but if it's clean, all original, and sounds good and plays well, is that out of line? Thanks for any info you can provide! Michael Answer: YOur right a pic would help. 1850 sounds like a good price if it is great condition, has a hard case and sounds great. There were more variations of the style 3 ukulele than any other. Some worth more, some less. 1950 may be the last incarnation. Please see if you can get me a pic to either this site or my home email..cfayne@bigpond.net.au - Tuesday, May 6, 2003

Question asked by: bluesboyroy Subject: making my uke pretty Question: Dear Chuck, I got interrupted while trying to send the pic. Maybe others that have decorated ukes and maybe their heads can send in pictures too. Photos:      Answer: Thanks...frets - Tuesday, May 6, 2003

Previous Page

Jump to page:      of 296

Next Page