Endorsements @ Kanile'a 'Ukulele.

Featured Artists


 Since the introduction of our web site, we have taken on the challenging task of marketing a beautiful and unique product over the Internet. We realize how difficult it is for something as personal as an instrument to just sell itself. That is why we have worked extensively on sharing with our current and projected customers the different types of tonal woods that we utilize, building theories, our attention to detail, and our wonderful customer service.
 
Another important facet to Kanile'a is our "'Ukulele Ohana", Which has grown to include leaders of the Hawaiian Music Industry.  Understanding, that each member of our 'Ukulele Ohana has earned the right to play any 'ukulele available on the market. We are honored that they have chosen Kanile'a 'Ukulele as their tool for their craft. We have provided this "artists" page to assist you with your final decision to allow us to design and build the most rewarding investment you will ever make.
A Kanile'a 'Ukulele!
Kanile'a 'Ukulele... The professionals choice!
 
 
Kenneth Makuakane
Kenneth Makuakane is a Multi-talented artist who has been recognized as an innovator in the composing, producing and recording of Hawaiian music.  His passion for music has earned him twelve (12) Na Hoku Hanohano Awards along with an induction to the Kamehameha Schools Alumni Gallery for his outstanding contributions to our community.  Kenneth's essence is astonishing.  His contributions to Hawaiian music are unparalleled.  Kanile'a 'Ukulele is proud to have Kenneth Makuakane as our Alaka'i (leader) in our 'Ukulele Ohana.
 
Kenneths' stage instrument is a Custom Super Tenor with a 20 inch scale joined at the 16th fret.  The body has a Claro Walnut back and sides with a Western Red Cedar sound board.  Electronics are L.R. Baggs Element system with volume and tone controls.  Combine this with his studio instruments Kenneth is able to achieve the exact sound that he needs to create.
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Please take a look at what Kenneth has to say about his arsenal of Kanile'a 'Ukulele's.

 The 'ukulele has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember, from soprano, concert, tenor and baritone models.  In my line of work as a record producer, I have to be picky about the sound of an instrument on all recordings I am involved with.  Kanile'a 'Ukulele's are at the top of my list of great sounding instruments.

Whether I'm using an AKG-414, a KM-184, an RCA-77 ribbon mic or an SM-57, the clarity and resonance of the Kanile'a 'Ukulele shines through, making mixdown equalization extremely minimal.  Joe and Kristen Souza have created a niche market that is on fire.  I'm proud to be on board.

 
 
Imua Garza

Imua Garza is the main vocalist, ukulele virtuoso, producer and composer for the Opihi Pickers.  His music background started at a very young age and has grown tremendously.  As an artist, Imua has a style that is second to none.  His innovative riffs and complex chord progressions make him a leader of the modern 'ukulele artisans.   Kanile'a 'Ukulele honored to have Imua Garza as part of our 'Ukulele Ohana.

Imua plays a full blown custom Super Tenor Po'okela.  It has a premium curly Koa body inlayed with paua abalone on each side along with "Imua" inlayed on a ebony finger board.  Electronics L.R. Baggs ofcourse.

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Imua Garza and the Opihi Pickers website

 
 
 
 
Steven Espaniola

Steven Espaniola is a new artist to the Hawaiian music scene.  He has offered an innovative sound with his modern arrangements of traditional Hawaiian music.  His Leo Ki'e Ki'e (Traditional Hawaiian falsetto) is remarkable and his 'ukulele styling resembles those of a Master.  Stevens' hard work and dedication to his craft has earned him the prestigious 2007 Hawaiian Music Awards "New Artist Of The Year". With his format, Steven is ensuring himself a position in the Hawaiian music scene for generations to come.  Kanile'a 'Ukulele is excited to have Steven Espaniola as part of our 'Ukulele Ohana.

Stevens website   Stevens My Space

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Vaihi
Vaihi is a world renowned Traditional and Contemporary Hawaiian music group.  Their electrifying performances have wowed crowds both locally and abroad.  From their humble beginnings, Vaihi stayed true to their convictions by blending beautiful, four part harmonies while performing Polynesian classics.  Each member plays 'ukulele.  During live performances Bruddah Sam (far left, Baritone) and Keola (far right, Super Tenor) entertain with their Kanile'a 'Ukuleles.  We are very blessed to have Vaihi included in our 'Ukulele Ohana.

Vaihi.com    Vaihi's My Space

 
 
Les Harris
Les Harris is the 'ukulele power house behind the "Dynamic Duo" Kalaeloa.  Their harmonious blend of contemporary Hawaiian music has earned them international recognition.  His commitment to his craft has allowed Les to become the most highly recognized 'ukulele virtuosos to emerge onto the local music scene.  Les' sweet sounding vocals will touch your heart!  His incredible 'ukulele riffs will excite you!  Kanile'a 'Ukulele incredibly honored to welcome Les Harris to our 'Ukulele Ohana

Kalaeloa's website

 
 
 
 
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Kala'i Stern

Kala'i is a member of the "sweet voiced" Hawaiian music group 'Ale'a. As a group, 'Ale'a has wowed audiences all over Hawai'i and the continental U.S. For their talents they have just been honored by the Hawai'i Academy of Recording Arts (HARA) with four Na Hoku Hanohano awards (the biggest award for Hawaiian music). As a soloist, his beautiful falsetto has won him top honors at the Frank B. Shaner's falsetto contest. With his talent and love for music, Kala'i is insuring himself a place in Hawaiian music history. Here is what Kala'i has to say about Kanile'a 'Ukulele.

"When I play an ukulele for the first time, I not only listen to the sound it produces, but I also pay attention to the feel of the instrument as I'm strumming. Joseph Souza crafts an instrument with a rich and warm tone that is almost effortless to play. In addition, he walked me through the steps he takes in preparing the ukulele as well as the tonal nuances created by using different types of wood. A Kanile'a 'ukulele is not just an instrument, but a work of art to be cherished for a lifetime."
Ke kanile'a maika'i pu kakou. Ua hana I Hawai'i nei.
 The joyful sound that is pleasing to everyone.
The work that is done in Hawai'i.

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