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

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Question asked by: Else Chubinski Subject: ukulele Question: Hello Chuck, I wonder if you can tell me something about this pineapple uke. I liked the colour of the wood and bought it for 20 dollars. As you can see,it has some kind of royal logo onit and says "ALOHA" under the logo. Thank you very much. Else Photos:      Answer: Elsie...what you have is an early (1930's) version of the Duke Kahanamoku souvenir ukulele. He was a very famous Hawaiian surfer and sportsman and was featured on everything from ash trays to magazine articles. Your ukulele looks like one of the better made ones. They came in two styles : standard and Pineapple. You did very well to get it for 20 dollars....collectors would pay many times that for a chance to buy it. The logo (decal) is on of the thousands of varieties that were and still are available in all souvenir shops...good strummin.....frets... - Thursday, April 26, 2001

Question asked by: Gabby Subject: ukes by Kaholas & Co Question: Can you tell me anything about the worth, playability, and relative word on the street on their ukuleles? Thank you. Answer: gabby...I assume you are talking about thse new Kaholas. I hear they are good,however I have not had a chance to play them. Its nice to hear from you. If you are talking about the vintage koholas...thats a different story. Let me know which you want to know about. Keep writing chuck - Tuesday, April 24, 2001

Question asked by: Brad MacIntosh Subject: strings Question: My Uncle has a very old banjo uke with steele strings. He is finding it hard to get new strings. Would you know what guage they are? It is a 4 string. Would accoustic guitar strings work if they were the same guage? Answer: Brad...I don't know where you live, but there are many companies who make banjo uke strings. Find a good Music store close to you and ask them..if they do not have them, they must have cataloges that show companies who do. Ok yakkers...who out there buys banjo uke strings?..help stringless brad. Be patient Brad...and No... guitar strings will not work. You might want to try John Bernunzio at BVI@servtech.com. He is the recognized authority on stuff and a real good guy..Tell him I told you to write...good luck....chuck - Tuesday, April 24, 2001

Question asked by: rogs4 Subject: violin-uke marx company Question: i have a 1934 violin-uke marx brothers company troy michigan is in good shape wondering how much it might be worth?? Answer: Hi...this is the most often question asked on uke yak....If you would like to see some of the other answers, please type in violin-uke in the search area and you will see them all. In the meantime..It is worth about 50-75 dollars depending on how lucky you get. Unless you are very young and have a long long life ahead of you, don't attempt to tune it. thanks...frets - Friday, April 20, 2001

Question asked by: Jerry Greeran Subject: Pineapple Ukulele Question: Chuck, My ? is everyone knows when Samual K. Kamaka Patented The Pineapple Ukulele. Jan 3,1928. Maybe you can tell me when he filed for his patent? Because if I knew that maybe I could figure out when Mine was made. With a low production Number# of 150 That reads on a blue label PATENT PENDING Witch tells me its before 1928. Any help? Thanks Jerry Answer: Jerry...I have no idea when your uke was made...I would guess it was late in the afternoon. As far as the year..I have no idea..Kamaka is still in business in Hawaii..I am sure that if you called or wrote them ( they also have a website) they could help you with the patent date. When you get it, please let me know. I would like it for my own records. thanks alot for writing...chuck fayne...I was just kidding about the late in the afternoon. Its just that the Hawaiians like to get that early morning great surfing before getting down to work..so I guess most everything was made in the late afternoon.... - Friday, April 20, 2001

Question asked by: Johnny Petree Subject: NEW UKE MAKER (David Talsma) Question: Chuck: Here is another opinion from me. A friend of mine in Michigan, who is a graphic designer and woodworker is making stringed instruments. I asked him to make me a pineapple uke to my specifications and I received it today. It is one of the prettiest examples of matched KOA that I have seen and the sound is really sweet. I would highly recommend anyone contacting David about their ukulele needs. You can contact him at David Talsma, 5183 Durwood St., Swartz Creek, MI 48473 or by e-mail at ghool@tir.com. The attached picture does not do it justice. Regards, Johnny Petree Photos:      Answer: Johnny...thanks as usual...It is a beautiful ukulele and if it sounds anything like it looks, it must be heaven..Thanks for sharing that information with us...Let us know how it breaks in....chuck - Friday, April 20, 2001

Question asked by: Theron Subject: Ham-handed friends Question: Hi again! Thanks for the generous offer of doubling my money on my 1.00 Kamaka, but it sounds too sweet to sell. On another topic, I also bought a Favilla baritone at the same time for three bucks. It seems to be quite old, and is a really a joy to play, though more guitarish than the soprano. Actual questions: 1. Does anyone still make the old style pegs (hex set into the head) pegs like my ukes have? Does anyone still make "just OK" baritones these days that don't cost HUGE bucks? My buddies can't keep their mitts off my ukes, and I fear for their lives! (my friends that is, should they break my ukes). It seems like there is a choice of antique($$$), Premium New($$$$) or unplayable toys! I just want a player-beater for the gang. Thanks! Theron Answer: Hi...You can get a set of tuners for your baritone at most good music stores. They are made by lots of people today. A Favilla baritone for 3 bucks...I wish I were shopping where you are. I paid 4 dollars....I would look on ebay...there are alot of baritones that go up for sale and don't cost an arm and a leg. They are the least popular of the uke sizes. You should be able to pick up on for your heavy handed friend for little money..I don't really know of any modern makers who are making a reasonable baritones today. If anyone out there in uke land knows...let us know...keep finding the bargains..frets fayne - Friday, April 20, 2001

Question asked by: Naomi Subject: new to ukes, help please Question: I know this is for collectors but I'm new to ukes and don't know where to start. I don't need the rarest, most expensive model but I'd like a good instrument worth learning on. Plus with ebay I have the new or vintage option. Any suggestions? Answer: This column is not only for collectors. It is for anyone interested in Ukuleles, be they old or new. You have come to the right place. This is, as I have said before, not a paid political announcement,. But on this site- on the on line store you will find a uke called the fluke. This is the perfect place for you to start. An easy to play, very cool uke. You will also find all the books and cd's to get you started. Please give it a look. You will be in the right place. On the bidding networks, you have to know something to get what you want. It is not the place for beginners. Let us all know how you like your fluke. thanks for writing in..chuck - Monday, April 16, 2001

Question asked by: charles wilson Subject: tenor uke Question: Chuck, I'm saving my money for a vintage Martin tenor. I understand that it can be tuned like a guitar or like a soprano uke. I already play guitar so that would be simplier for me. Which tuning do you think best captures the best tone of the instrument? thanks, Answer: The typical guitar tuning is a little low for my taste. The standard tuning for a tenor is best. Also, go to the on line store and get Jim Beloffs books, and you will have all you need to get started on the uke..all you ever wanted to know and more....I think the tenor is best in the mid range. You can tune it like a soprano,but you have to be real careful..Some can take it some can not. It will pull the bridge pins out and if it is a solid bridge uke, don't tune it up to soprano pitch, you will be wearing the bridge between your eyes. Not an attractive look. best...frets - Monday, April 16, 2001

Question asked by: elaine Subject: ukulele Question: I have a ukulele-tag has Unis & co manufacturer of string instruments honolulu, t.h. please let me know what I have or something about it--has a corduory case? Answer: I assume you have a ukulele as well as a tag...going on that assumption, you have something. You have a very early hawaiian ukulele. It was made in the teens-20's. You also have a corduory case which is not original...Let me know a little more about the uke..a pic would be great...we can now accept pics on this site. If no pic comes, then a real good description. label, trim, wood, dings, dongs, scrapes, wounds, all those things that would detract from its value. Hang on to it until you hear from me. It is a collectable ukulele. When you say tag, do you mean the things that hangs from the tuners or the glued in label inside the ukulele. They are very different and if it is a tag, it could be very valuable just by itself. Would love to see a pic...Thanks frets , last and always...chuck - Sunday, April 15, 2001

Question asked by: Memphis Mike Subject: Wanderlele Tuning Pegs Question: Chuck, I picked up a 60's monstrosity called a Wanderelele for $10.00. It's a huge old thing that looks exactly like a Swaggerty Surf-a- lele. One of the tuning pegs is cracked and I was wondering if there is any place on the planet where I might find a replacement peg...HELP! It's just too cool looking to just hang on the wall. Thanks again...Memphis Mike Answer: Memp...if I may call you that....You have a new one on me. I would suggest that you contact the swaggerty expert. You will find him by looking up the word in the search section on this site. Find his fabulous explanation about the swaggerty company and write him I am sure he would love to hear about your find. I always knew there were more of these wonderful old things. Write us back and let us know what he says. Were always interested., chuck - Sunday, April 15, 2001

Question asked by: David Subject: Fin-Der Question: I bought a platic Fin-Der Uke for my collection and was wondering if any one still makes the colored strings. Also, is there a trick to keeping the tuning pegs tight? Answer: Yes. there are colored strings made, I just don't remember who right now. I will look it up and get back to you...As far as keeping the tuners tight...make them drink alot....What kind of tuners are they. As I remember, they are plastic violin type...If so..a little graphite or shaved pencil lead will work..If not..Get a new set that will work, but don't throw away the old set. To a collector they are very important. chuck - Sunday, April 15, 2001

Question asked by: Earl Subject: Mele Uke Question: I also have a Mele concert pineapple and it's a very good player. For the money hard to beat. My Frisco uke is great. Put Kamaka strings on it with low G.Sounds terrific. Great design. Answer: I am glad you like the design of the Frisco..I also think it is a masterpiece of design...I designed it with the help of Marc Silber...or was it the other way around. But, thanks for the compliment. I have one and love it. I have a prototype...Not the way they ended up but still a great player. I assume that the Mele is a recent model...I don't remember any vintage Mele Concert Pineapples. Thenks for the report...Always appreciated. frets - Sunday, April 15, 2001

Question asked by: Steven P. Zaborski Subject: Tuner Upgrades Question: Chuck, Does upgrading a vintage uke's tuners with decent Grover #4MB tuners reduce the value of the uke? Drilling out the peg holes is major surgery but staying in tune is critical. Steve Z. Answer: I think you have sort of answered your own question...To some, drilling out the holes would de-value a vintage..to others, the sound would be more important. My answer is yes, it devalues the uke in the eyes of the person who buys with their eyes and adds value to the person who wants to hear an in-tune ukulele...So if your going to play me a song ..drill away....frets - Sunday, April 15, 2001

Question asked by: Johnny Petree Subject: National Uke Opinion Question: You asked for opinions, so here is mine. A friend of mine had a National Concert Uke that he offered to sell to me. After reading all the negative feedback about National Uke's I was not sure if I wanted it or not. But I sent him my check and got the National. Is it heavy, YES; is it loud, YES; is it plunky sounding, YES. Would I recommend it for playing traditional Hwaiian music, NO. But I have found the perfect place for it. Ragtime and blues. My 16 year old son is a drummer in a Delta Blues Band and they asked the old man to play with them. Well, this little National Concert Uke fits in real well with the National Guitar and DOBRO the kids are playing, and I am having the time of my life playing with them. I liked the concert so much I bought a new soprano. Both of my Nationals are the steel body models. Blue and green. They may not be for everybody, but they are for me. As for as quality and construction. Flawless. I have tried to attach a picture, I hope it works. All the best, Johnny Petree Photos:      Answer: Johnny....thanks very much...Its so nice when someone does really write in with a comment. That is the only way we really learn. I can only play so many instruments, I rely on all of you out there to help...Thanks alot. Its great that you are playing in a group with your son. Thats the best part. Write in anytime....chuck - Saturday, April 14, 2001

Question asked by: robert wheeler - founder Subject: KUMALAE Question: Chuck, Your reply to john rees and his KUMALAE uke brings to mind that ukuleles are not just about the hardware. Very often the human emotions and connections are overlooked in the search for “mint”. I have a uke that was restored by someone, whose name I can’t recall, in Winter, California, and offered on eBay. The label says…. “Made in Hawaii Especially for Sherman and Clay, San Francisco”. It is a KUMALAE and although the restoration has robbed the uke of the wonderful original indescribable rich color, a number of cracks on top and side and one missing fret have been dealt with. The reason that I absolutely needed this KUMALAE is that not being a musician, musical experiences have often been painful. Carrying a 120 bass accordion from my childhood flat in the Noe Valley district of San Francisco to the Sherman & Clay store on Kearny Street, on public transportation, for accordion lessons is something I’m not likely to ever forget. As I strum this uke, with its slotted wooden pegs and contemporary gut strings, I’m reminded of the great satisfaction that a non-musician can obtain from a ukulele. “Ain’t she sweet, ….. dum de dum dum dum…..” Answer: robert....thanks again as usual.. I would personaly never sacrafice tone for mint. Mint is a piece of art....Tone is soothing to the soul...Somehow, I would rather you played the uke for me than the accordion. Bagpipes with chords.....Don't get me wrong...there is probably not a person on earth who looks better in Kilts than I ...however, I don't play bagpipes and a guy who just wears Kilts and doesn't have a bagpipe....looks like a guy who lost his bagpipes.....Happy Holidays to you and all the yakkers at this Multiple holiday season....chuck fayne - Saturday, April 14, 2001

Question asked by: john rees Subject: ukelele valuation Question: dear chuck, it's good to know you live in australia.....anyway I have a uke. with the following description on the headstock it has ... KUMALAE GOLD AWARD P.P.I.E. 1915 [ a crest is here ] and under the crest is .. ua mau ke ea o ka aina ika pono HAWAII ....the instrument is made of beautiful wood and has a lovely resonance ..it just needs a good set of strings ...have you any info. on this instrument ... yours sincerely John Rees Answer: John...I have tons of information on that manufacturer ...I will tell you about him, however if you want to know about the specific instrument you have, I would need a pic. Johah Kumalae made about 300.000 variations of ukes. Only kidding of course, but he did make dozens. They range in value from a couple of hundred dollars to many thousands. Johnah Kumalae was an ivory carver turned Ukulele Maker. He won an award at the Panama Pacific Exposition of l915 for design. He went on to become the most prolific builders of Ukuleles in the Islands. He built until about l930-40...and then stopped. He was most famous for making ukes for other manufacturers and dealers. His ukes are well built and he used very good wood. He made a quality instrument for a reasonable price. It is said that at the height of his business , he was making 3000 ukes a month. I find that hard to believe, but I have seen it in print in more than one place. After Kamaka, who continues to make Ukuleles, Kumalae is the most often discoved island vintage uke. You are right, they do have a sweet sound. If you would like to see some beautiful examples of Kumalae's work, get a copy of Jim Beloff's book.."The Ukulele, a visual History"...Thanks for writing in and enjoy your uke...frets - Friday, April 13, 2001

Question asked by: jim Subject: Martin baritone uke Question: I'm original owner of 1962 martin baritone uke, original case, mint condition. Ballpark figure for value? Would like to sell but want a fair price. Any thoughts? Thanks Answer: The baritone is the hardest to price. They are all over the place. Stick it up on the marketplace here on this site and ask for offers. If you get something close to what you want..grab it., we have a very astute bunch of sophisticated collectors on this site and I am sure one of them would love to have your instrument. The advantage of our site over the bidding networks..is that is it quick..you will know in a couple of days...and they are a great bunch of appreciative collectors. Is the case a hard shell case or a chipboard case? It makes a big difference. Obviously , the hard case is more desirable. good luck...Sorry I can't give you a figure. I think you will be pleasantly surprised...chuck - Wednesday, April 11, 2001

Question asked by: John Maris Subject: Conqueror Question: Chuck, I have found out a little more about this. It was a trade mark of Bruno(Chicago)and the Banjo Ukes were probably made for them by Lange. It does sound good! Photos:      Answer: sounds good to me....dont believe it...I have seen in the american guitar book the connection between lange and bruno..but who was the distributor and who was the manufacturer....? Perhaps we will never know. Things get pretty muddy around that time...I think they were all making for each other...They met once a week at a deli and over a plate of lox and eggs they decided who was the flavor of the month..Bruno, Regal, Martin, Lange, there were alot of them...Regardless, its interesting. thanks for the update...chuck - Wednesday, April 11, 2001

Question asked by: Mike Longworth Subject: Martin Question: I fell into the habit of calling a Martin mahogany uke a 1M, etc. There are a lot situations that propose another question. What color, which size,what woods, etc.? If you say 1M, everyone knowledgable knows exactly what you are talking about. If you say "Style 1, it poses a question. Try this on a hundred ukulele enthusiasts, and 99 will probably say "is it Koa?" I can't help thinking the 100th would say "its the Mahogany one, Right?" Robert is correct, but he probably expects to get the next question... MIke L. Answer: Thaks mike...I am also guilty of calling the martin mahogany an M...I think people bagan to use M and K when there became such a difference in price. When they were about the same, 15 years ago, it didn't matter. Now it does..Your right...it saves answering the next question. But we all need Robert to keep us Ukulele conscious and honest. Best to you both.... and Mike, its always a pleasure to hear from you...a fan ...chuck - Wednesday, April 11, 2001

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