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 (225 of 296) (Chuck "Frets" Fayne has answered the following 5919 questions.)

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Question asked by: Bernie the Mutant Subject: 6 string tuning Question: Chuck, I posted this on the bulletin board, but would like your opinion as well. I just got a used Sonny D 6 string and was interested in how people tuned their 6 string ukes. This one has all nylon strings. I know some ukes have a wound G string .....(OUCH!!)....and tune it low. Presently I've got the pair of C strings tuned an octave apart and the A strings tuned alike. What do you think is the best tuning for sound quality!!?? Do some people tune the A strings an octave apart also? Thanks for input!! Your mutant friend from San Diego. Answer: Mutant....its a personal thing. I don't use the octave apart A string, I don't like the sound. I don't use the wound string, I don't like the squeek or the feeling...I do use the low fourth string tuning and the octave apart c strings...I would experiment and suggest you do...I don't because I hate to string ukes. If I get it close, it stays that way. I can't see the little hole anymore...I am training my son to string instruments. Now I know why I had kids. thanks for writing in..do so any time..were always here...chuck - Wednesday, July 10, 2002

Question asked by: John Gerlach Subject: Slack-key Uke Question: Chuck, I primarily play slack-key guitar and from Heeday Kimura's Slack Key Ukulele book it looks like a Uke migh be a good traveling instrument. Kimura recommends a tenor or baritone uke with a wire wound Kamaka Ukulele top string and a G-C-E-G tuning with the low G one octave below the usual "my- dog-has-fleas" G pitch. I was considering a tenor _guitar_ which is tuned the same as a baritone uke, but they are still a little big for carry-on luggage. From your posts it is pretty clear that you don't like steel strings, but since I can't grow thick fingernails it seems like steel is my only alternative for getting a good sound. Also, I was looking at Len Young's web site and the pictures at least suggest that his finish has improved from when you last saw his Ukes. Len suggested that I go with a Liliu size Uke which is between the size of a tenor and a baritone. Kawika also makes this size uke. What would you suggest for a traveling slack- key uke. Thanks Photos:      Answer: John...you can use anything for a slack key ukulele. I would probably stay away from a soprano, but a tenor would be o.k. When playing slack key, the brand name is not that important. Since it is tune to an open chord, you can use almost anything. Slack key guitar players can use warped necked instruments because there is no pressure exerted on the strings to use the frets...so I always sounds in tune. I am not a fan of Len Youngs Ukuleles and see nothing or have heard nothing that makes me believe that he is making better ukes. I am willing to give him the benefit of the doubt since it has been a long time that he has been making. He may have gotten better. That pic you sent ..sent me over the couch..But it is the sound your after. I would love to play one of his new ukes and see if things have changed,. I am not a fan of steel strings, but that is on a conventional ukulele. I don't know what else you would use on a slack key uke. Good luck and let us know what you find out. write anytime...frets - Wednesday, July 10, 2002

Question asked by: Marko Subject: Found a Uke ... FlukeUke Question: Okay Frets, I have two questions for you. 1) I was given a Heit Deluxe (the picture is attached). What grade of instrument is it? It stays in tune alright but the intonation gets off after the 4th fret or so. 2) I want to buy a uke tenor or concert. I have roughly 200.00 clams. I like the looks of the fluke uke. Is it a better uke than the Heit? Thanks for your help. Marko Photos:      Answer: I have never heard of a Heit Uke. So its hard to compare..I would go with the Fluke for many reasons. It is just the coolest, and coolest sounding uke I've played in years. I would worry alot about a uke that goes off after the 4th fret. Not a great sign...I think you have answered your own question...Good Fluke (ing)....frets - Sunday, July 7, 2002

Question asked by: George Janecek Subject: beginner searching for a Uke Question: I'm a beginning Ukulele Payer (actually never even had one in my hands). I'd like to buy a ukulele for use and not collecting, I would appreciate your advice. At this time I am considering a1940's Kamaka for $250 (actually more than I would like to spend and only a few more hours left for this auction) and a 1930 Geib for $100 both of these instruments are currently listed on ebay. I would appreciate any suggestions you may have regarding these or other instruments that might fill the bill. Thank you , George Janecek Answer: The Kamaka I cannot find on ebay, however a l940's kamaka in decent shape is a buy. The Geib I looked up and, as I thought, it is not a Geib Ukulele, it is a Geib case with what they say is a Harmony Ukulele. If you can get that one for under 100 go for it. It looks in very good condition. Hope this has helped..When you get your uke, be sure to return to this site to the black menu one the left of this answer and go to the online store and you will find everything you need to become a strummin' fool..best and good luck.. Remember, the Australian Land Turtle mates only once every 10 years. They have also been known as most bragging member of the Turtle family. frets - Sunday, July 7, 2002

Question asked by: Wes Subject: Martin Ukes Question: I am a Guitar and Uke player. I love Martin Guitars and am very interested in getting a Martin Uke but find that most of the vintage martins cost $500 and up. I've started searching Antique shops for a bargin but have had no luck. Is a New Martin S-O worth $225? Are there any other Quality Vintage Ukes that are more affordable? Thanks! Answer: The new Martin S-0 isn't worth 2.25 cents. Yes, there are other affordable vintage ukes. Favilla, Gretch, The Fluke, avaliable from this site, ( realize its not vintage, but just great to play)....These are probably your best bet in the decent uke in the decent price range...keep tuned to the Marketplace on this site and be sure to put your wants on that site. You will get calls. frets....look at garage sales and flea markets....antique stores are a waste of time....they usually know..... - Sunday, July 7, 2002

Question asked by: michael Subject: martin tiple Question: ok, not really a question. i found your site browsing for ukes (your site is so obsessive and i like that) , and i was gonna go get a fluke uke (i have an old Lauren (china) baritone and this ancient Barklay soprano (that my dad got for me), both of which are sorta unplayable..... but in my search for the fluke uke (they didn't have any left), i came across a martin t-15 tiple... in PERFECT condition, so sweet... for 600. well, since i wasn't looking for a tiple, i didn't buy it right then, but i hyperventalated all the way home and then researched your site and every single other one a million times and then , after a restless nite, woke up early and got to the store where even the employee was waiting outside for the manager with a key! needless to say, i did get it and i am totally in love. it is one of the best instruments i have. now, please, be nice and tell me i didn't make a stupid obsessive purchase! Answer: I wouldn't call anyone stupid who bought a 1200 dollar instrument for 600 and it is also one of my very favorite instruments. Obsessive Yes, stupid NO!!!!...Nice score...write in as you progress and let us know. - Sunday, July 7, 2002

Question asked by: Louis Palumbo Subject: Ukelele Clubs & Organizations Question: Do you know of clubs or places where intermediate and begginning ukelele players can get together. Answer: don't know where you live....I guess you do...look to the left and you will see a section called player catagory..go there..it will answer you question...also go to the bulletin board and place your wants and desires ...you will get answers...those nuts love to write...and they are a fabulous bunch of regulars who are more than willing to share time and information...good hunting..if all this doesn't work...write back..frets - Sunday, July 7, 2002

Question asked by: Ken Bailey Subject: Ward Phillips Question: Aloha guys, unless I missed an exhibit, a secluded room or just plain visited a different Bishop Museum then you guys are talking about, I feel compelled to report that, the "hole in their collection" is a lot bigger then Ward is being lead to believe. I saw maybe two or three Ukes. A Santos, a Nunes or a Dias. I was so unimpressed with how such a "historically important, three dimensional art form"(Roth,circa 2002) could be displayed so insignificantly. Anyway if its your tutu wahines Ward, I'd count my blessings that she had the foresight to preserve it and I'd covet this Uke as if she was the woman we all dream about. Answer: kenny...good to hear from you...I think the Bishop has a few more...At least they did a few years back when Paul Syphers went there for research, but they are not known for the Ukulele section...Thaks for the report....Watch for the new book that is on its way out in Hawaii...I think the title is "Hawaiian Antiquities and Collectables" A Mt Idy. Resident, who shall remain nameless, wrote the chapter on the Hawaiin Ukulele...He wrote it a long time ago..The book has been a long time coming, but I understand it is spectacular. Different collectors wrote chapters on their specialties...They were not interested in my real special talents, so they elected to let me write about ukes....look for it...thanks chuck - Sunday, July 7, 2002

Question asked by: Greg Subject: strumming techniques Question: George Formby of Banjo Uke fame, used a couple or so techniques for his unique playing style, called a thumb drag, a thumb roll and a triple roll. Does anyone know where I can get practise /technical information about these techniques from? I have tried various shops for tutoring manuals etc, but all a little basic when it comes to strumming. Answer: Greg...there are thousands of rolls, strokes..and various types of uke techniques...to find out what you are looking for,....go to the George Formby Society Web Site and I'm sure that you will find someone there who will know. I do know one thing..That George Formby's favorite roll was a lightly toasted onion bagle with cream cheese....Hold the Lox...From Mt Idy.." Americas Lox Capitol" its frets signing off... - Wednesday, July 3, 2002

Question asked by: Jeff Marsh Subject: Grover Champion Question: I'm researching information for a theatrical production of The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940 and it makes a reference to Grover Champion. I like to give my actors lists of unfamiliar references to aid in the delivery and understanding of a line. I stumbled upon your website, sir. Do you have any knowledge of who Grover Champion is/was? Answer: Its tempting, however I will give you the real answer. They are tuners for banjos, guitars, ukuleles, and banjo ukes. They came in assorted sizes. I wish It was Marge and Gower's son, but no such luck....How did you know to write a music site....curious..I too am an sleuth......sherlock frets.. - Wednesday, July 3, 2002

Question asked by: justin darling Subject: gretsch 6930 standard Question: Dear Chuck, I acquired this ukelele about a year ago, and I was wondering if you could clue me in on when it was made and its value. It is a gretsch company, mahogany ukelele, 6930 standard, and has very little wear. If you could help out I would be much obliged to you. Thanks Answer: The plain Gretch mahogany ukulele in great shape is worth about 250-300 bucks depending on the weather..Thanks for writing in and keep in touch...chuck - Wednesday, July 3, 2002

Question asked by: Big John Parr Subject: Harmonny Ukeleles Question: I got hooked 3 years ago, when I bought a Harmony Concert uke at the Alameda Antique Faire(from Marc Silber). I bought the Visual History book, and have been collecting ever since. I am looking for a Harmony Tenor to go with my soprano and concert. I had a Williams Tenor, while at UCB '1954, do they still exist? Mine was destroyed by a neanderthal roomate. Answer: You have to hunt, but the Williams ukes turn up once in a while..Red saddle, nut and all...As far as the Harmony tenor goes, you just have to search..However a Neanderthal roomates are a dime a dozen...best of luck ...Neanderfrets - Wednesday, July 3, 2002

Question asked by: Daniel Prest Subject: Keech Banjulele Question: I have a Keech Banjulele, serial number A12165. It's in the original case. No strings on it but the bridge is in the case. There's artwork of a coloured guy with a big box tie and a floppy beret style hat, signed by the artist - although it's a bit rubbed out it looks like "David Hawthorn". Keech's signature also seems to be scratched on the back panel. Do you have any idea what this item is worth? Thanks in advance for your advice. Answer: Keech made dozens of different kinds of Banjo Ukes..I would have to see a pic to tell you exactly what it is worth. There were two brothers who started making banjoleles in Hawaii and eventually ended up in England. The Hawaiian ones are superior. Please send a pic and I will do my best to help..The pic sounds interesting also...thanks for the question....send a pic... - Wednesday, July 3, 2002

Question asked by: Peggy Cosnter Subject: Question: Chuck, we purchased a LeDomino Ukulele at a yard sale. Dominos on the bottom of it and orange triangles on the neck. Could you tell us the value of this please. Thanks. Answer: about 250.00 depending on condition. It would be worth more if it had the litle dominos on the fingerboard instead of the little triangles. Oh so close...Good uke and they were good players also..thanks for writing...chuck - Wednesday, July 3, 2002

Question asked by: martin Isaacson Subject: buying a uke Question: Chuck, your an incredible wealth of iformation. So here goes! I want to buy a uke and have about $250 to invest. I want to learn to play melow and melodic slack key uke, mostly hawaiian stuff and can be a serious student. Would be grateful for your best advise. I appreciate your time. Regards Martin Answer: I know you live in Woodland Hills and my suggestion would be to go to Mc Cabes Guitar shop in Santa Monica and see an old and dear friend John Zehnder. Please tell him I said hello and sent you. Ask him the same question. A uke played slack key is different from any other sound. It may not depend on the make but more the sound. A cheapy uke may do the job. Go talk to John..He'll know. mccabes tele number ..310 8284497...thats by memory 8000 miles away...not bad...frets - Tuesday, July 2, 2002

Question asked by: joseph bitner Subject: buying a ukelele Question: I play the guitar and would like to learn to play the ukelele. I need one but don't know what to buy. I want to spend $250.00 - $400.00.Which company produces a decent ukelele for this price? I live in the middle of nowhere so I would have to drive 3 to 4 hours to a city to actually shop for one. I will probably have to buy one over the internet. Would I be better off with a soprano, tenor, etc.? Any advice would help me. thank you for your time. Joseph Answer: Being a Guitar Player , you might find the switch to a soprano sized uke a little tough going. It will seem very very small. I would go for a tenor or a baritone. You have to watch the bidding networks..You will find Bari's for that price but a tenor is another story. I don't know of a tenor being made today for 400 bucks. However, if there is one, somebody out there in uke land will read this and write in. Lets wait and hear what they have to say. A Favilla Baritone can be bought for that price and it is a very well made instrument. Let me know what happens. Where do you live??? write often...frets p.s. you might want to go over to the marketplace on this site and let the reest of the nuts know about your wants..You will get more advise than you ever wanted...and some of it will be about ukuleles..best of luck..... - Tuesday, July 2, 2002

Question asked by: robert wheeler - founder Subject: Making a Display of Yourself Question: "Mona Lisa, Mona Lisa, men have named you......." (Protected by Copyright) - It drives me crazy (crazier) when people, in order to display their unbelievable level of cool, show disrespect for a ukulele by assigning the term "wall hanger". I like to remind these cool dudes that the "Mona Lisa" is a wall hanger. Further more, the whole question of "...humidity changes causing cracks....". This brings to mind the long struggle of contemporary civilization to understand what a ukulele is. At the start, I'm assuming that the concern is for ukuleles that will react to changes in humidity (i.e. - not Flukes, Macaferris, SO, or other untold makes that may have bodies of construction grade pressure treated timbers - ). For a lot of people, who have perhaps come to maturation during the dot com bubble, the concept that a material object can have damaging effect from the change in the humidity of the environment may be beyond comprehension. From your cell phone to the competitors in the "America Cup" races, it don't seem natural that our revered material objects should be damaged by the conditions of our environment, leaving out, for porpoises of this discussion, Globe Warming. What anyone should do about humidity and their "real" ukuleles ("real" ukuleles have bodies that are made from really, really, thin pieces of real wood wrested from real trees with all of the molecular characteristics, which I won't describe here, in order not to have this discussion appear needlessly lengthily -) depends on the climatic conditions of where the ukuleles are located. In comes to mind, considering that in this discussion keeping ukes in cases is suggested, that in music stores you can buy little tubes that are sold in order that you can put them into your case, along with your instrument, to protect the instrument from low humidity, and possible resulting damage. The way these little tubes work is that you put water into them and then "close" them with a "stopper" that permits molecules of water to slowly move from the water you put in the tube, through the material of the "stopper", into the interior of the instrument case, and then into the wooden body of your ukulele, thus maintaining the integrity of your instrument. In order to reduce concern about the possible malfunction of the "stopper", which might result in water flowing from the tube directly onto your ukulele in liquid, rather than molecular, form I recommend the following procedure: ----- Open your case --- - pour a tea cup of water directly into the sound hole ---- close the case. You can now stop worrying that the stupid little tube that you bought at some musical emporium might fail, and apply your mind to more important matters. Like hanging your ukes on the wall. The question of hanging a uke on an outside wall might have something to do with the construction of the outside wall. In contemporary construction, very often, outside walls are insulated. I would think that with such walls, hanging your uke on them is OK. I have all of my Martin and Longworth ukes on an outside wall so that as you walk into my uke room, you see the most beautiful ukes first. I'm not suggesting that folks who recommend not hanging your uke on an outside wall are of an age such that the major portion of their lives has been lived in houses constructed prior to the advent of insulation technology (i.e. old "guys"), anymore than I would criticize people who will only handle ukuleles when wearing white gloves. In the winter, heated closed up house, I use a humidifier. New England in the summer, cooled closed up house. is middling humid, so I use an air conditioner. For the whole room and every single uke that is in the room. It has been my experience that low humidity (i.e shrinking), not high humidity (i.e. swelling), causes cracks. One of the most terrible things that can happen is to be sitting in a room, on a cold winters night, with a lot of ukuleles on the walls, and hear a "CARACK"!!!! My heart stopped. "OK, which one of you made that sound????" I went to Sears and bought a room humidfier. regards, robert -founder Answer: need I say more?????? Thanks Robert. - Tuesday, July 2, 2002

Question asked by: mike Longworth Subject: ukulele Display Question: Chuck, I like to display things on the wall, but some care should be taken. One problem would be putting them on the outside wall. If the the weather causes a considerable difference between the temperature on the wall and in the room, stresses can cause cracks due to the expansion and contraction . The method of hanging is important too, and merits further discussion. For the moment...A nail through the center of the back into the wall is a No No. Mike L. Answer: I agree about the outside wall...I always put something between the uke and the wall to keep air between the uke and the wall....I agree about the nail through the back of the uke...thaks again for all the help all these years....chuck and the gang.. - Monday, July 1, 2002

Question asked by: Jeff Wilson Subject: buying first uke Question: Stupid question, but here goes...I'm left-handed and a musical novice. Are there left- handed ukuleles, or do you just reverse the strings? Answer: Its not a stupid question...there are not left handed ukes, just left handed nuts...the groves in the nut have to be made to fit the strings of a left handed player...you will reverse the strings, however the 3rd string groove is too small and the others may rattle. I would go to a decent luthier and have him fit a set of strings properly. You might also have the luthier take a look at the holes where the strings attach to the bridge to make sure the know will not slip and fit properly...See, not a stupid question at all...a smart question...v]frets.... - Monday, July 1, 2002

Question asked by: Phil Subject: choosing a uke Question: Hi Chuck, Great site. I'm new to ukes and am reading through all the Uke Yak Q's and A's (yep, all of them. It's a great way to learn about ukes. Here's my question: I'm about to buy my first uke and I'm wavering between a vintage Gretsch soprano, mahogony, maybe 1940s, price tag $200, and a brand new Martin S-O. The Gretsch has a sweet sound and looks to be in good shape, although it has two repaired cracks in the back. What do you think? Is $200 too much for the Gretsch? Any advice? Thanks. Answer: Phil...If the cracks are repaired correctly and the uke sounds good. 200 is a fair price. Don't even give the Martoon another thought. It isn't worth the paper it made from....frets - Friday, June 28, 2002

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