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

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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: 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: 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: Richard Albright Subject: ukklele tuning Question: Dear Sir: If I tune my baritone ukulele to D-G-B-E and a tune is wrtten for a soprano (G-C-E-A) and written in, say, the key of D Do I use the fingering notations that is listed above the tune? ==== Thank you -- Answer: Thank you very much for calling me SIR. Very people know that I was Knighted...Sir Frets of the Round Sound Hole. As far as you question goes...I will take a little longer to answer that one. I have my family working on what it means at this very moment. The immediate answer that comes to mind is....NO...however I have no facts to support that claim. I will work on it....Best from the Castle of Mt Idy...... - Saturday, June 22, 2002

Question asked by: vincent Subject: Newbie is me... Question: Hello, I am totally new to the ukelele, although I have been playing other stringed instruments for years (guitar, bass, Oud, mandolin). Do you reccomend me starting out with a standard uke, or possibly a baritone due to its scale lenghth. Also, any explanation of the differences would be appreciated. Thanks, and I cant wait to start strumming. Sincerely, Vincent Answer: I don't know if I would go to a baritone, but I certainly would not go to a soprano if your hand is used to the spacing of all those instruments. You will find it cramped. Perhaps a tenor ukulele would suit you best. You should go to a good music store, one that carries all sizes, and try them out. You will find out quickly which one is for you. Please let us know what you find out.. You play the OUD? Your the first oud player I have ever met. Best in your search and if I can help in any way...Watch oud.....sorry I just had to...please dont hesitate to write...thanks for your question...frets - Wednesday, June 19, 2002

Question asked by: Richrd Albright Subject: Ukulele Purchase Question: Dear Sir: I know little about music but have decided to purchas a baritone ukulele. Not knowing how well I'll do I found one in a music store that cost $60. and got it for $50. My question is do you think this will be OK for me or should I go a little more in cost? I would hate to spend a great deal unless you thought it would be a lot better--- Thank you Sir for your assistance -- Sincerely, Richard Answer: I wish I could answer your question. Only you can..I have a 10 dollar harmony uke that has a fantastic tone and a beautiful High grade that sounds like crap. The cost doesn't mean anything...Its the sound your after. If you like it and it plays well and sounds good..you got a bargain. You could spend alot more and do alot worse. good luck..frets - Saturday, June 8, 2002

Question asked by: Portland Uke Subject: What is it? Question: Hi Jim, I came across this uke on ebay. It's out of my price range, but I am curious nonetheless. Ever seen one of these ukes? Thanks Chuck! Photos:      Answer: I have seen ones like them. I know nothing about them. I have had a couple...sounded lousy. wish I knes more...frets - Friday, June 7, 2002

Question asked by: Mike Longworth Subject: Vega Godfrey Uke Question: Martin did NOT make ukuleles for Vega. Vega and Godfrey had the contract. I was told the deal was short because there was no profit for Vega in the deal. Martin did Not make any instruments for Vega of Boston. The Boston Vega's were made some by Vega and others by Harmony. I have seen some Godfreys that looked like a Harmony product. Martin acquired Vega in 1970, but themselves only made banjos. The name was also used on a Vega line of guitars made by Egmond in Holland for import by Martin. Answer: Here is the answer to the Vega/ Martin question. Once again Mike, thanks alot and keep writing in...chuck - Friday, June 7, 2002

Question asked by: peggy H. costner Subject: LeDomino Ukulele Question: Dear Chuck, Not sure you received my first letter so I am rewriting it again. I purchased a LeDomino Ukulele at a gargage sale. It has the dominos at the bottom. On the neck it has orange triangles. In excellent condition. Could you tell me the value please. Would like to know if I got a bargain!!!!!! Thanks so much. Would you please send your answner via my e-mail address? Answer: Peggy it depends on the condition and size. The most desirable Le Domino has dominos as fret markers not the triangles. If it is in perfect shape....about 200 bucks...I guess thats a bargain...I have never seen a 200 dollar uke at a garage sale except the garage sale C F Martin iv had a few months ago. What bargains. Got a D 45 for 75 cents. Offered 50 cents, he wouldn't budge. keep strummin,...you got a bargain...frets - Wednesday, June 5, 2002

Question asked by: Peter Gove Subject: Martin Taropatch Question: I have a Martin Taropatch built probably pre 1930. It is in excellent condition and has been in my family since new. IT has the orginal case, but the case is not in great shape. What might it be worth? Answer: Peter, please try to send a pic to this site and I will tell you what you have. Martin made many varieties of Taropatch and I need to see which one to let you know. They are all very nice instruments....good luck and send the pic..chuck fayne - Tuesday, June 4, 2002

Question asked by: Diesel Subject: Pohaku ukuleles Question: Not a question, just an update. I asked some time ago if you had any info on Pohaku ukuleles; you didn't, but now I do. I am posting a link on the bulletin board with particulars for those who helped (thank you) and those who expressed interest. Answer: Thanks for the info from all of us in ukedom....frets - Tuesday, June 4, 2002

Question asked by: Griffis Hames Subject: intonation woes Question: How's it shakin' Chuck? Long time no hear. Anyways, I have a question about one of my instruments. It's a particularly nice concert scale ukulele, but the only trouble is the third fret on the E string is always sour. In fact, it kind of produces overtones making it sound sort of sharp and flat at the same time. No matter how close my tuning is, or whether I'm playing that note on it's own or as part of a chord, it's foul. I mean, a G chord sounds really ecch, while a G7 sounds just fine. It doesn't look like there's a bump or misalignment on that fret, so what do I do? For the love of all that is right and natural, Chuck-- what do I do? Take care and take it easy. Answer: get to a good luthier...you have a fret problem. It could be any one of three frets but that is what is causing it. Don't attempt to fix it yourself. Let me know how it turns out. ice to hear from you.....frets - Monday, June 3, 2002

Question asked by: John Subject: ukulele Question: I have a ukulele made by Martin&Co. Not sure of the year,but know it dates back to the 1930's. The only markings for a ser. number is in pencil 148332,inside the body. Any info would be appreciated. Answer: John..I need pics of your uke..Martin made many varieties and sizes. They also did not number their ukes. The pencil mark inside has nothing to do with martin. Please send pic to this site or my persol email...cfayne@bigpond.net.au Thanks for writing in..frets - Saturday, May 25, 2002

Question asked by: Randy Holsapple Subject: Applause/ Fluke Question: Hi Chuck. I'm brand new to the site and the ukulele. My wife and I just returned from Hawaii where I picked up a tenor Kelii all koa uke and now I'm hooked. I'm a Hammond Organ player and play a little guitar so the uke and I are getting along fine, however, I'm having a tough time keeping it in tune. It slips bad. Any ideas? Also, from reading your site I know you are not a big fan of electric ukes, but I'm looking into the Applause UAE148 Tenor or the Fluke tenor to record with. Any suggestions or opinions? I know I'm probably setting myself up, but go for it! Thanks, Randy. Answer: You need a new set of tuners. If the uke is new, contact the factory...no reason for them to slip. I am not a big fan of electric ukes, however if you are looking for one..yo are on the site where the fluke uke is sold. Just look at the menu to your left and go to On-Line-Store and you will find what you need. Good luck and welcome to the yak...keep in touch...If I can be of any more help...don't hesitate....frets - Saturday, May 25, 2002

Question asked by: Edwin Subject: Martin made Vega Question: I was just browsing ebay and saw an Arthur Godfrey baritone for sale. Sellers says that Martin probably made this uke, let me be clear he doesn't state it as confirmed fact but says it is strongly indicated. Is this creditable? Item # is 875603128. I'm not saying this is wrong, I don't know, but I've never heard that Martin made the Arthur Godfrey's. Answer: Edwin...they guy who has the Godfrey for sale is hopeless,( personal opinion always gets in the way of facts) but if you have an interst in ukuleles, you need to have two books right away. One. Jim Beloffs's book, "The Ukulele, a visual History" and two. The Longworth book "Martin Guitars a History". Between these two books, this site and the bulletin board you will find out what you needto know. I think the name VEGA on the headstock was a dead giveaway. Perhaps not. In the Longeworth book you will find the names of the companies Martin made for. Thanks for writing in .....frets - Saturday, May 25, 2002

Question asked by: Gregg Subject: Technical Question about Playablitiy Question: Chuck, I asked a question about an experience I am having with two of my ukuleles that you consider to be made by quality makers. I asked the same question on the bulletin board and received one answer, which to me means that it is too techical of a question for most. I tried that forum first so I wouldn't waste your time, but this issue is killing me. Please pardon the lack of technical jargon, and I hope that I can make my questions easily understandable. I have a very beautiful curly Koa Kumulae and a Williams soprano with the fluorescent saddle and nut combination that sound terrific when individual notes are played. The ukuleles sound very bright and loud. However, even after tuning the ukuleles with a pitch pipe and an electronic tuner, when chords are played, some of the notes are either sharp or flat. For example, when I pluck a “C” note after tuning the “A” string, the “C” is sharp. What causes this? Is there anything that can be done to cure this? It is quiet troubling to me because I like to look at these vintage ukuleles but I really love to play them, and turning them into wall hangers seems like a waste. Any insight you can give me would be greatly appreciated. And you don't need to post this on your sight if it is not exiting enough for your readers. Thanks a million. Answer: My posting this answer has nothing to do with excitement...It has to do with a common problem that is easily fixed. Most times when you tune a ukulele you are tuning to open strings. When you go to play it, some of the strings may go sharp or flat. 99 out of a hundred times it is caused by a fret wire that is either slanted or up to high or down too low. It is a simple adjustment that can be done by a good ( GOOD) luthier. If it is a neck problem that is a different story. Can still be repaired, but more expensive. This was a very important question and I'm very glad you wrote in. The readers will be happy as well. It is, as I said, a common problem. Let me know if I was correct. I'm married and I need those moments of correctness..( only kidding)..do let us know..thanks again...frets fayne - Thursday, May 23, 2002

Question asked by: Ward Phillips Subject: price estimation Question: hello there; just before the depression, my grandmother was in hawaii where she bought a 1929 kamaka ukulele. i am wondering what the estimated value of it may be? it is in mint condition. apparently, as i have been told, the museum on honolulu happens to be missing this exact year, make & model of ukulele in it's collection. thanks for your attention, ward phillips Answer: What a coincidence...My grandmother had a depression in l929. I would need to see a pic of your uke to tell you what you have. I would also like a pic of your grandmother. I have a feeling that the l929 model of a Kamaka uke is not the only hole in the Bishop Museum Collection. You can send me the pic to this site or to my home email..cfayne@bigpond.net.au thanks alot for writing in....frets - Wednesday, May 22, 2002

Question asked by: Mike Longworth Subject: Question: The tiple in question would be considered by the factory to be a 1955 model. The first reported ukulele with a serial number was #2 on Jan 15, 1916. The last one to surface was #196. Are there any higher? Who knows? Un-serial number ukes began on July 18, 1916. There is a book with this information, but unfortunately it is out of print. Mike L. Answer: thanks mike....can you tell us what the name of the book that is out of print. I would be interested in the book for my self. Thanks again for the help..chuck frets - Tuesday, May 21, 2002

Question asked by: jan clark Subject: weissborn uke Question: My dad picked up a Weissborn uke at an antique shop. It was tagged as a toy. He only payed a couple dollars for it. Any info on the quality of these ukes? Thanks Answer: thanks for sending me the pics Herman Weissenborn was primarily a maker of lap acoustic guitars in the 20's..His ukes are fairly rare. He was a master craftsman and this extended to his ukuleles. ...It is a style one weissenborn and looks to be in pretty good condition. It is a rare find especially for a couple of bucks. There are Weissenborn collectors out there and the value will depend on its condition and who's tuned in at the time. It should bring in the mid hundreds. Good luck and you already had some...You found it for a couple of bucks..nice fine...envious in Mr Idy...frets - Tuesday, May 21, 2002

Question asked by: Richard Lazaro Subject: music sheets Question: My question is: where can i find music sheets with instrumentals for da new hawaiian songs (ex: ka'au crater boys). Not just the notes and lyrics of the songs but also the intrumental parts on how they do it. Answer: I do not know that much about sheet music...You will find uke jackson on the bulletin board. I would take a walk on the wild side and get on the bulletin board. They discuss everything, one is sheet music..Uke Jackson knows pleanty. Hope you find what you are looking for...chuck frets fayne,.....resident resident - Tuesday, May 21, 2002

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