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Testimonials @
Kanile'a 'Ukulele.
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TESTIMONIALS
These testimonials are from actual customers who where kind enough to share their feelings and experiences with their new Kanile'a 'ukulele. We understand how difficult it is to express over the internet how extraordinary our ‘ukuleles look and most importantly sound. This page of testimonies is to assist you in understanding the beauty and playability of our instruments.
Hello Kristen and Joe,
I received the ukulele in the mail yesterday. I was so happy when I unpacked it, and even happier when I tuned it up and started playing. The instrument looks lovely, and plays very nicely. I'll let the strings stretch and then I will be playing this instrument a lot to see all the kinds of sounds I can elicit from it.
The Bearclaw Spruce top is stunningly beautiful - whoever thought spruce could be so pretty. And the koa headstock veneer is a lovely piece – my audience will appreciate the beauty of this instrument. The curly Koa back is also a lovely piece and I love the rope purfling and myrtle binding. The instrument is nicely fretted, and the intonation very true. I like the action - it is easy to play, but no buzzes and you can get good dynamics from the instrument. It has great clarity and sustain for individual notes, and yet chords do not sound muddy - a very good compromise for overall playability.
Thank you for the tie block bridge - since I primarily perform on classical guitars, the tie block bridge makes this instrument appear more closely related to the other instruments I play. The neck and fretboard is a very comfortable profile, easy to play, and look very classy in that classical instrument sort of way. Looking at the interior of the instrument with an inspection mirror, the bracing is nicely done and well shaped, and the gluing is very clean and neat - a professional looking instrument inside and out.
As to the tone, well the instrument is brand new and the strings are still stretching but from what I have gleaned so far, it has an incredible tone. There were no dead spots or wolf tones anywhere on the fretboard - I play using the entire fretboard, so this is very important to me! - and I love the longer scale with the concert sized body - it sounds like a concert ukulele and has the playability of a tenor! I also think the longer scale tends to improve intonation, so that's an additional bonus.
Based on my initial impression with this lovely ukulele, I would readily recommend your instruments. You are clearly very proud of your instruments and work hard to make your customers happy.
Next week I'll be bringing your ukulele with me to a small recital and will play a flamenco solea on it, and end with a Hawaiian tune, still to be selected. this will give my colleagues a chance to hear and examine my new instrument. I have faith they will be impressed.
Again, my many thanks. -Lorelie Mansur
Aloha Kristen and Joe!
WOW!!! What can one say when they receive a piece of art that is also the most functional musical instrument to ever touch their hands... Words cannot begin to describe how I've felt the last several days after receiving my first Kanile’a ‘ukulele! I don't know what I do more of, practice on my new instrument or spend the time wiping it down! Joe, after "Pule" (prayer) the other day over this new baby, not only myself but also others have felt this instruments "Mana." (Strength) The thing that they say the most is that "there is a lot of love that went into this creation." If others could see and feel this ukulele, they'd no doubt feel the same. Hey, maybe after the t-shirts come out with it's picture, they'll see just how beautiful an instrument you've created!
I want to thank you and Kristen, through all of the ideas kicked around about the various types of wood and it's responses, suggestions by you as to what might sound and look the best. Thank you Joe, for not only creating an outstanding instrument but for also being a great example of the Aloha spirit!
Mahalo,
Allan Sato
Aloha Joe, Kristen,
I was just playing my ukulele and thinking about how lucky I am to have such an Instrument. It is so easy to play and what comes out of it is just music to my ears. For the first time in years I am Really enjoying Playing ! I like the sound and Playability better than the other 2 ukes I have( 1 martin tenor, and 1 applause tenor). Once again mahalo for building such a piece of art for me. I can truly feel the mana'o (thought) that went into this Ukulele and that makes it all the more special. It is so much different from something you could walk into a store and buy off the shelf. I couldn't say Mahalo More! MAHALO, MAHALO, MAHALO! For a wonderful instrument.
Sam Spencer
Dear Joe and Kristen,
I wanted to write and let you know that the
instrument arrived safely on Thursday afternoon, and I haven't put down
As you know I have been playing on a Martin soprano (style 3) for the past year or so, and I can't believe how comfortable and warm sounding this instrument is to play. Joe, you were right. The sustain on the instrument is crazy!. It is almost like I have it plugged in. I am truly overwhelmed by your craftsmanship, esthetic sensibility, and understanding of acoustics. The Walnut is so beautiful! My girlfriend, who is a violinist, hasn't shown much interest in the instrument for the past year, is playing it all the time as well. I can't wait till there are 2 of your instruments in the house so we can start playing together....and maybe even a tenor in the future.
Thank you so much for your artistry!
All the Best,
David D. Dunn
Hey Joe,
I am a junior high music teacher from NY. I am writing this letter to thank Joe for building the most spectacular ukulele I have ever played. I went to Hawaii in July, 2005 and was lucky enough to visit the shop where my ukulele was born. This really was my highlight of the Hawaii trip!
Joe was very kind to take my girlfriend and I on a shop tour and answer all of our questions. Oh yeah, when we got off at the wrong bus stop he even drove down the road and picked us up. Since purchasing, I have had countless hours of fun. Aside from my own enjoyment, everyone that sees it or hears it instantly comments on the quality of craftsmanship in addition to the clear and resonant sound it produces. I look forward to many years of smiles and strummin'!
I am already saving up for Joe to build me a super concert uke! Thanks again for all of your hospitality combined with your superior instruments.
Mahalo- Adam and Emily
Kristen and Joe:
My gorgeous 'uke arrived today safe and sound. We are so very appreciative of all your hard work that you put into this lovely instrument. You are not only wonderful craftspeople but also wonderful human beings, and I can't thank you enough. Best wishes to you and your family.
Brad Gottsegen
Dear Joe,
I realized that with all of my summer activities, I never took the time to thank you for building my ukulele. Your woodworking skill is evident in every facet of the instrument, and most importantly, it has a great sound! I can't wait to record it and use it as much as possible on my production tracks. Thank you again for your skill, your attention to detail, and your love of the craft.
All the best,
Chip Smith
Hi Joe and Kristen,
I opened the case when I received it last week and my jaw dropped! Beautiful wood - extremely well built. This is my first Ukulele. I was tempted to go to the local guitar shop and buy the $49.95 model hanging on the wall. Boy am I glad I didn’t! I figured out the chords I needed and started playing Somewhere Over the Rainbow / What a Wonderful World. This instrument sounds great! Now if I could only sing like Iz! Somehow I think after a lifetime of practice I would still come up short. This is fun!
I will definitely need at least one more ukulele. I’m thinking of a 4 string tenor with walnut body and a cedar top tuned with a low G.
Thanks again,
Doug Dietrich (Pennsylvania)
p.s. I had this shipped to my work so that it wouldn’t have to sit on the doorstep waiting for me. Even the guys at work who’ve been making “Tiny Tim” jokes since I ordered this instrument had to admit that it was beautiful.
Greetings Joseph & Kristen,
My beautiful 'ukulele arrived a few days ago and I am in awe of its beauty and playability. It is a true work of art and has gained much admiration from everyone that I've shown it to. A couple of friends who play the guitar were surprised at its rich, robust sound. The wood is truly gorgeous and is set off beautifully by the Mother Of Pearl rosette and position dots. The Grover gears make tuning effortless and look terrific too. All in all I couldn't have wished for anything better. Thank you so much for everything.
I know I will have a lifetime of pleasure playing this wonderful instrument which has been crafted by a genuine master.
All my best to you both,
Pat Turner
Dear Joe & Kristen:
Wow!!! Thank you so much for my custom super concert ukulele! I received it this Saturday just as I was leaving the house to attend a birthday party. When I unzipped the hard case I could hardly believe my eyes... it's absolutely beautiful and sounds wonderful! It's more stunning than I could've possibly imagined. Thank you for creating such a beautiful instrument for me. The only thing I have yet to do is fire up the amp. Thanks again!
Sincerely,
John Hayashida
Dear Joseph & Kristen
I'm totally happy with the instrument. It looks, IMHO, Extremely classy. The rosette's darker color highlights the spruce. The "quaintness" of the bridges’ shape is lovely. Thin necks and low actions are 2 big points with me. It couldn't score higher, and my thumb finds the neck wonderful -for once in my life- I now where I am.
Binding work gets 110 points. It sounds lovely. Not my first ukulele, but certainly my first instrument of this caliber. Worth the wait? Worth the money? Most definitely!
Mahalo nui for your patience, and for a beautiful "friend".
Again, thank you very much.
Steve Barker
Hello Joe & Kristin,
Thank you, Thank you, Thank you. My Ukulele is beautiful. I’m all tuned up and ready to go. The tone is wonderful.
I will keep you posted on my progress with my new friend.
I feel very lucky to have one of your works of art! Thank you for your dedication to your craft.
Best to you and yours
Geri Daniels
Aloha Joe and Kristen,
I'm very pleased to inform you of receiving my 'ukulele today.
It was long in coming to open a box.
From my heart, thank you very much for your polite finishing and your effort on my 'ukulele.
My Hanohano 'ukulele is beautiful beyond my anticipation.
After this, I'm looking forward to playing a lot of music on my Hanohano.
Recently, I came to see your Kanile'a 'Ukulele in JAPAN.
All the best
Sincerely,
Yoshinobu Kanasaka
Joe and Kristen,
It's Valentines day and by new ukulele came today! It is the most beautiful little instrument that I've seen is a very long time. I'm thrilled to say the least. The tone is incredible, the workmanship spectacular. Thanks, for the best Valentines day I've had in years!
Lynn
Joe,
I've been playing the uke you made me for about two years now. It is basically a modified 4-string Pea Li'i that you and I designed together. When I first took delivery of the instrument I was amazed at how beautiful it was and how great it played. To my surprise the uke is even better sounding and more playable now. It was exceptional when I got it and just keeps getting better and better.
Today was Easter Sunday and the whole family got together to sing and play some music that my brother had arranged. I played my uke while others played a guitar, bongos, drums, morocco's, klav sticks, a cowbell and a soprano uke. It was great to see how much I could get my uke to project through the other instruments when I needed to and what a rich tone it provided as a compliment to the guitar and soprano uke. I also find that, in addition to some surprising power, I can really get beautiful, colorful, musical tones out of this instrument. I just can't say enough good things about it.
I look forward to working with you in the future on my next instrument. You are truly a master luthier and artist!
Thank you, again.
Jungwoo
Hi Joe and Kristen, It's here and wonderful. Absolutely beautiful to look at and wonderful to hear with a voice that belies the concert size. Thank you so much for the wonderful instrument.
:), Bill Thompson
DEAR JOE AND KRISTEN,
WHAT A BEAUTIFUL UKULELE! THE BLEND OF THE KOA AND WALNUT MAKE IT A MOST DISTINGUISHABLE INSTRUMENT. AND I HAVE NEVER SEEN BETTER CRAFTSMAN SHIP ANYWHERE. JOE, YOUR WORK RATES WITH THE MASTERS. THE UKULELE HAS VERY RESPONSIVE ACTION AND A TONAL QUALITY THAT I WAS NOT EXPECTING. THE SOUND IS SO SMOOTH AND MELLOW I LIKE IT A LOT.
I WILL NOT HESITATE A MOMENT TO RECOMMEND TO ANYONE WHO WANTS THE VERY BEST.
IT HAS BEEN A PLEASURE TO DO BUSINESS WITH BOTH OF YOU.
THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH,
AL STULTZ
Aloha,
I just received my Super Concert Ukulele this weekend and what a beauty. The instrument looks great and sounds phenomenal. I love the way it holds the tone and clarity all the way up the fret board. You can tell both aesthetically and by playing this instrument that you are craftsman who takes pride in his work. Thanks for a great instrument, and until the next one (K-3 Baritone)!
Mahalo Nui Loa,
Morgan Riddle
Savannah, GA
Hi Joseph & Kristen,
In a few words, it has absolutely exceeded my expectations and my expectations were indeed high. I believe that I have visited every Uke Web-site on this planet and I could not be happier than to have chosen Kanile'a.
In detail:
· The resonance and tone are quite astounding - it provides an accurate balance on all strings throughout the fret board range
· The appearance is truly stunning
· The timbers are beautiful
· The Neck is extremely comfortable - I love the way it has a certain flatness to help keep my thumb where it should be.
· The Low G provides great support to all chords and beautifully underpins the melody; not to mention the additional flexibility it provides in the presentation of various solos.
· I had not realized that both the third & fourth strings would be wound - It gives the whole thing so much extra oomph!
Well, I guess it's all up to me from here on but I should mention that I intend discussing my Kanile'a Uke in my presentations
Warmest regards to you both.
Beverley & Ian Williams
Hana Hou (one more time)
Hi Joseph & Kristen,
I've waited a few days before writing again to see if some of the euphoria might rub off. It hasn't. I must state that I am 'SHOCKED' by the resonance and tone that the instrument emits. As each day passes, I am increasingly able to exploit this situation further. The difference between the Kanile'a and my mass produced solid-spruce- topped Concert, is as different as Night is from Day. It is indeed SHOCKING but, in the nicest way.
Yesterday, a small audience was similarly 'shocked', and showed great interest in the Kanile'a. They asked many questions about the uke in general, and the Kanile'a in particular. I have no problems with the general enquiries (Jumping Fleas etc). Where I can't give a precise answer to a particular question, I let the 'instrument speak for itself'.
I'm finding people in my age group, particularly men, are interested in timbers and things made from wood. Joseph your handiwork was greatly admired yesterday. It has the dual appeal of being something people want to touch and feel --- as well as hear. To close, I congratulate you and thank you again for a magnificent product, which I will both cherish and nurture.
Regards,
Ian Williams
Aloha Joe and Kristen,
I just want to thank both of you for the beautiful ukulele that you made for me. It is so incredible to hear the sound that comes from this precious gift. I can feel the mana (strength) that went into creating this sweet instrument. I will cherish it forever and a day. And please know that you've made a huge difference in my life and I will always be grateful. It was such a joy to meet Kristen and I truly
Appreciate her coming all the way to meet me. It must have been fate that lead me to your website.
Mahalo and a hui hou . . . Christy Meyers
Kristen & Joe,
The ukulele arrived today. There was one very happy boy in the world today. Thank you for your beautiful craftsmanship, efforts and hard work I'm sure you put into our ukulele and all. It's like a newly born baby. It was received with warm loving arms, tickled and caressed. Tomorrow it will meet all our ukulele playing family at class who have been expecting along with me and Josh who I'm sure will receive it the same way. We will keep in touch and hope we can help you when you come out this way.
Mahalo Dave & Josh
Hi Joe and Kristen,
My K-3 tenor has arrived! I can't tell you how pleased I am with this instrument; it has exceeded my expectations (which were high) in every way -- tone, playability, appearance, and volume! I have to confess that my experience with ukuleles was rather limited when I decided to purchase a Kanile'a, but my guitar background was of assistance, and I chose carefully after looking at the work of a number of different luthiers on the web. Joe, your input was invaluable to me in regard to choosing soundboard and body materials. I feel that your comments about maple reinforced my belief that this was the right wood for me from a sound standpoint as well as appearance. The pink ivory fret board and bridge are just stunning. Speaking of the bridge, I was very pleasantly surprised to see pins instead of the conventional tie on bridge, which I had expected. This is a beautiful instrument for both ears and eyes!
It has been a real pleasure working with you, Joe and Kristen; you were both so helpful to me. Joe, you are truly a master craftsman, and I'm so proud to own a piece of your work. I wish you both continued success, happiness and the best of luck.
Thanks!
Elizabeth Reese
Hana Hou (one more time)
Hello Joe and Kristen!
I am writing to let you know that my second BEAUTIFUL K-3 tenor arrived today. After admiring it for a while, I spent an hour and a half getting acquainted with it. Its sound, like that of my first Kanile'a, is gorgeous. Its playability seems to add a few years to my experience as a musician.
There are all sorts of neat, subtle little differences in the appearance of this one and the first. I like the thin black band on the inside of the Ivoroid binding on this one; the rosette is slightly different too. I noticed the bridge right away -- that too is a change. I like the fact that my two beautiful ukuleles are very similar in appearance but not identical. I'm so happy with the sound and appearance of both of them! I was so surprised the next day after I mailed my payment to find that you, Kristen, had called and had said that you would be sending my tenor along right away. I have to confess, Joe and Kristen that I can't imagine anyone doing Internet business of this type on the good faith basis that you do. We're not talking about sending someone an old paperback book before payment is received! That you, Joe, would make a custom instrument -- even for a repeat customer -- without a deposit simply amazes me!
Again, this Kanile'a tenor is beautiful to look and (to my ears) to hear played. Thank you both so much. I wish you continued success and happiness.
Best regards,
Elizabeth Reese
Aloha Kristen & Joe,
Got home late Monday night.
My son David received the Ukulele Wednesday. He fell in love with it right away.
And sends Mahalo.
I heard him playing it late into the night last 2 nights.
Thanks again
Scott Tonelson
Hi Kristin and Joseph-
My boyfriend picked up my uke at the post office yesterday. We were both in awe with the beauty, quality and warm tone of the instrument. At first, he thought it didn't sound right, but once tuned (duh), he was totally impressed. You should have heard him with the aaahs and ooohs while playing it. He said it sounded and looked much better than his Kamaka and Tony Graziano collections.
Thank you very much for the time, love and care you put in creating this "Baby". I'll take good care of it.
Take Care and Aloha!
Bernadette Gonzales
Hi from Kentucky,
Joseph, you have indeed made an instrument worthy of your name on the label!
You selected some wonderful woods for my Kanile'a, and your craftsmanship is absolutely magnificent. Even more important, it sounds so clear, and so happy, if that's possible! With just a few minutes of playing (I just got home) I can tell you have set the frets with great care and accuracy.
My ukulele will see many public appearances over the coming years. It's going to be fun, fun, fun! You can be sure folks will know who made it!
Regards,
Bruce Adair
Aloha e Joseph & Kristin,
My ukulele and case arrived in pristine condition. The instrument is absolutely gorgeous -- the koa just shimmers in the light. And it has unbelievable resonance, tone, and volume for an instrument with such a small body. Joseph, you truly are a master luthier.
I'm having great fun learning some ukulele chords and starting to play the Hawaiian songs I know. I'm experimenting with some finger style, and pretty soon I'll try G C E G tuning and see where that leads.
Thanks for building me such a beautiful ukulele. I hope to get over to Kane`ohe sometime and meet you both. Until then,
E malama pono,
Richard Wassermann
Joseph and Kristen Souza,
WOW, I'M TOTALLY AMAZED! It's beautiful!!! I can't
believe how awesome it looks, you guys are awesome.
WOW!!! Thank you so much for your hard work, and thank
you for being so helpful even when I kept sending
annoying emails:).
It came out way better than I'd ever imagined. I had
a picture in my head of what I thought it would end up
looking like. But you guys blew that out of the
water. This looks ten times better than the "dream
uke" I had pictured. Thank you.
Thank you so much, you guys are great! I'm gonna tell
everyone I know to check you guys out!
Marc Schubert
Aloha Joe & Kristen!
Just a note to let you know the ukulele I ordered arrived earlier this week safe and sound! It is beautiful. As a woodworker myself, I appreciate the inherent beauty in wood and fine craftsmanship.
This was a gift for my partner and she was thrilled! She has fond memories of playing a ukulele as a teenager while her mother sang along. She will truly enjoy this one.
Thanks so much!
Dixie Biggs
Hi Kristen & Joe,
I got the uke I ordered a week and a half ago and I have to be honest... it's beautiful and sounds really good. Just wanted to let you know that you're great and keep up the good work! You'll definitely be hearing from me again soon for a next purchase.
Thanks,
Cheryl L. Pascua
Joseph and Kristen,
I received my ukulele on Monday. Thank you for a beautiful instrument. I
said to a friend a while back that I hoped that it was as nice in reality as
it was in my mind and it exceeded that
Again, thank you for this gorgeous instrument.
Seane Crews
Dear Mr. and Mrs. Souza,
Yes!! She's here, and I call her Blondie...such a beauty!...and the Tone is incredible! Just exactly what I wanted, and I can't thank you enough for the perfection of this instrument.
You truly are masters of your craft.
Sincerely, (gotta go play now!)
Barbara M. Graham
Aloha Joe and Kristen,
The long awaited ukulele arrived today and I could not be happier. It is
beautifully crafted and has that easy, rich, and sweet island sound. It was
well worth the wait. The koa is absolutely beautiful with the tones to
match. I can see why Joe is biased. I will be the complete envy of my
musical circle. Thank you so much. I look forward to many years of enjoyment
and companionship with this new pal. The hills around here will definitely
be filled with the sound of "ukulele" music. Again, I am absolutely thrilled
with the new super concert ukulele. It is truly a thing of beauty.
Mahalo Nui Loa
Grant Somers
Aloha, Kristen and Joseph
I received my Pea Li'i several days ago and thought I'd best tear myself
away from playing and write a note thanking you.
The ukulele arrived early in the morning, (unfortunately for me), and all of
my chores remained unfinished for the rest of the day, and for a several
days afterwards, too. I was so excited! When I opened the case I saw the
most magnificent 'ukulele. It is truly a work of excellent craftsmanship;
much more than I imagined it to be. After tuning the six strings and
allowing them to stretch, I strummed a few chords. I have never played a
six-string 'ukulele before, so this was new to me. The tonal quality is
superb with sound so rich, full, sweet and mellow. I found sustain of the
instrument to be quite good and the acoustic loud. I will use the LR Baggs
electronics when I am teaching in the classroom. I have discovered that
finger picking on the six string is not much of a problem for me. I can
fingerpick on the Pea Li'i almost as well as on my 60's four string Martin
tenor. Next week at the nearby Halau Hula O Napualani there will be a 1st
Annual Ukulele Conference and I've been asked to assist in a teaching
session. Of course, I will be taking my new Pea Li'i and will be listening
to the 'oohs' and 'ahs' of such a beautiful 'ukulele.
My wife and I will be visiting the Islands next month, but will not be able
to stop in Oahu and visit the birthplace of my 'ukulele. Perhaps on our next
visit to Hawaii we will have the pleasure of meeting you and take a tour
your shop.
Once again, Mahalo for such a beautiful instrument!
Sincerely,
Ben Amido
Dear Joseph and Kristen:
My new 8-string concert arrived safe and sound. It certainly
is a beautiful instrument, exhibiting spectacular wood grain,
simplicity, excellent craftsmanship, striking finish ... a
breathtaking piece of art combined with a superior musical
instrument! I congratulate you on a job well done ... as
well as the embodiment of your emotion in its creation.
The carrying case is great, and looks like it offers great
protection. Thank you for including it.
Mahalo again for such a wonderful instrument!
Skip freely
Hello Joe and Kristen,
I received my Concert 'ukulele right on schedule! I must say the beauty I saw when I opened my case took my breath away. What a beautiful sound it has! My fingertips are numb from playing it for 4 days straight. I took my two sons (and the ukulele) to see their Tutu before she went back to California and she cried because of its beauty. She was so happy to see me with my own ukulele. She always played a Kamaka, and she was so in love with the sound and ease of playing. You both have made such a memorable visit for my Ohana. I am going to tell everyone about your PERFECT ukuleles and of course show it off to all the other Hawaiians in Chicago that are stationed with me!! Once again, mahalo for all the work that was put into it. To sum it up,
Phone call to order a Kanile'a- Free
Kanile'a K-1 Concert ukulele - $395
The joy and love that comes from this ukulele, - Priceless!!
Thank you again, and I look forward to my next purchase of a Tenor!!
Mahalo,
Sean Rigg
Hi Joseph and Kristen,
I just wanted to thank you for building the most beautiful Ukulele I have
ever seen. Its low action makes it very comfortable to play and the Ukulele
sounds great. The long wait was well worth it and, I will certainly
recommend it to any Ukulele player.
Mahalo nui loa,
Wayne Hall
Bridgecreek, Oklahoma
Aloha,
It's here, it's beautiful, and sounds wonderful. I love it; Thank you for
taking such good care of my new baby while it was being built. I know I
will get years of enjoyment from it.
Thank you again,
Dave Carey
Hello Joe and Kristen,
I received my son’s ukulele yesterday and it is absolutely beautiful. We’ve decided to wait until Christmas to give it to him but I don’t know if I can hold out that long. It has been a real pleasure dealing with you and I hope to drop by and say hello my nest trip to Hawaii.
All the best,
Mike Conroy
Dear Joseph, I am happy to say it
arrived and I love it and it is
truly beautiful and a terrific job again, and I love the size and it already
sounds terrific and I know will just keep getting better. I am
thrilled with it and you have capped my collection with this final one from
you and will call it quits for a while and keep a PEARL from you.
Take care and good luck to you and continued success in
your business and much happiness to your family. I will keep you in mind if
I
ever want another one someday.
Sincerely, Don Eliason
YOUR WORK IS A LOVE STORY.
AND I FEEL PROUD TO GET ONE OF YOUR BEAUTIFUL MASTERPIECES
UNDER THE BANANA TREE, HEARING THE GREAT SOUND OF ALOHA.
JUST TO LEARN HOW LIFE MEANS TO BE ENJOYED WITH SIMPLE THINGS AS LOVE,
MUSIC, AND SOME OTHERS SPIRITING ONES.
MAHALO NUI!!!
STAN
Hello Souza’s,
I just wanted to drop you a line and say thank you with all of my heart for
the fine 'ukulele that you built for me. This is truly a work of art and one
of a kind. The whole experience was very rewarding. I enjoy the uke more and
more the more that I play it. I think that it has made me a better player.
The tone is out of this world. I had a Kamaka concert recently and it was
big and bulky. Although it was a very nice instrument it had no 'uhane
(spirit). The
super concert that you built for me has a great deal of 'uhane. Thanks again
for all of the good work. I will always recommend you to my fellow uker's as
a great opportunity to own a true gem.
Mahalo nui loa,
Joshua Kealiher
Dear Joseph and Kristen:
The Ukulele arrived Monday and I haven't been able to put it down. First, let me say that it is simply beautiful...a real work of art. BUT THE TONE.... my God what a wonderful sound! And it becomes two completely different instruments depending on whether you strum with the fingers or a nice soft felt pick.
You have created a fine instrument, Joseph. I hope my humble attempts at music will do it justice. I had hoped you would string it with all nylon strings, but no matter. I will find a set somewhere. The hard case is a perfect compliment. It was worth the wait. Thank you very much.
Peter Barret
Hi Joseph and Kristen:
The day finally arrived! What a beautiful instrument. Your choice and combination of woods is breathtaking. I’m in the process of tuning now, and got to head out to an evening meeting, then I’ll be back to the ukulele to fine-tune on the piano. Lots of work to tune by ear with the 6 string, which I’ve never done it before.
I have it close enough in tone to play some, and it just sounds so rich and full. Can’t wait till I get home and have it on tune with some songs in hand that will take me long into the evening.
Your craftsmanship is superb. Was it worth the wait? Oh yeah, for an instrument like this, one could wait a lifetime. That’s what my daughter or son will wait for this one, and I’ll be glad to hand it over to one of them some day. It’s an instant family heirloom that I will enjoy for the rest of my life, and someone down the line will appreciate as well.
Much aloha
Peter Kubota
Hana hou (one more time)
Thank you so much for sending my babies home to me.
It’s neat to be able to look at them side to side and note the differences.
My semi-pro musician postman just happened to come by at the right time for me to open it to show him, and he admired them with me. I’m counting the minutes to go home and play again. It’ll be interesting to hear the difference in tone and song of the two. Carin in my office remarked again how everyone wants to play the ukulele I bought for her, and she gets stuck with the other one they own.
Aloha,
Peter K. Kubota
We received the Uke and its great!!! I love it!!!
Thank you again for your kindness. I hope we someday get to meet you - if we
ever get rich enough and time off enough to travel over there. I've not been
there in 16 years!
Again - Thanks!!
Wendell Souza
The Uke
showed up today and I must say it is beautiful but more
important the sound is incredible. My kids love to listen to it and it
is very easy to play.
Thanks again for such a great piece of work. I really enjoy and
appreciate it very very much.
Best regards,
Chris MacEachern
Joe,
Mahalo Nui Loa. I received my ukulele on Friday 6 Sept. It is a very fine piece of workmanship and sounds great. Debra remarked that it resonates like a bell, so true.
I'm sure that I will have many years of enjoyment and just plain good fun with my ukulele. I will for sure recommend your work to anyone who asks, and Kristen, mahalo for the great service and personal attention.
Mahalo again Joe,
Ron Serrao
Debra Serrao
Dear Joe & Kristen
Thank you very much for your kind.
My ukulele arrived on AM11 12th MAY, I have to say the truth very very
surprised, it’s too
much beautiful and really great. Mahalo Nui loa!!!
Thank you so much. Best regard.
Yukihisa. Ishikawa
Aloha Joe and Kristen,
What a surprise I had when a knock at my door came just a little while ago, when I answered the man said that he had a package for me, with a big smile on my face I knew it was my Ukulele.
I looked at the tracking for it this morning and the message was that it would be updated this evening, it showed that it was still in Honolulu. A big big surprise.
I read all your correspondence you sent with it first I even looked at the pictures on the calendar you sent before opening the case, I don't know why but I got very emotional, then I opened the case with my wife next to me, Joe what a beauty, I love the Tone and the Sustain your instrument has, very sweet and easy playability. The wait is over but I must say, for an instrument of this caliber, however long a customer has to wait, it is worth it.
It will be treated as a new family member.
It is truly Kanile'a
My God Bless All Of You.
Aloha and Mahalo.
Tony
Hana Hou (one more time)
Aloha Joe and Kristen,
My Beautiful Tenor Ukulele arrived this afternoon. I am sooooo happy with her. I have been playing her for a couple of hours now, besides her Beauty, the Tone and sustain are equal to this Beautiful Ukulele. Joe, Kristen kept telling me how wonderful it was coming out during its construction stages but I had no idea it would even outdo her comments. Joe, you really outdone yourself in constructing my new instrument. It will never leave my possession. This wonderful, Beautiful Tenor Ukulele is what I have been dreaming about. She is without a doubt the classiest Tenor Ukulele I have ever seen with a tone to match. She looks wonderful in her new Case. What an exciting moment for me when I opened the case to unveil this Beauty. Joe, and Kristen, I am so proud and happy how you took care of me. Both of you are really sincere in satisfying your customers, I will never forget how nice you both were with me, you went that extra mile. Thanks for the great communication we had during her construction. And thanks again for making this old man very happy. I wish I were there to give you both a big hug.
Aloha and Mahalo,
Tony Gonzales
Hana Hou
Aloha Joe and Kristen,
It has been 8 months since I received my Kanile'a Tenor Ukulele.
I wanted to let you know how happy and overjoyed I am with her.
Her action is perfect, the projection and sustain is wonderful and her tonal qualities are sweet and lovely. After I finish playing her, I wipe her down and then just look at this beautiful instrument you created for me Joe. There are not enough words to express my feelings on how happy my Kanile'a Tenor has made me. Not only is she a pleasure to play with her easy action and she is sooooooo beautiful to look at.
Joe and Kristen, Thank you for this beautiful instrument.
Aloha and Mahalo,
Tony Gonzales
Thank you SO much for your outstanding help and kindness regarding my recent order with you!
The Hawaiian Song book is SUPER! I now have a nice collection of songs to 'grow into’. And the felt picks are great, too! When I originally got my ukulele, it came with a couple large, thick felt picks.. I didn't like they way they made my uke sound - dull -. BUT when I received the white ones you sent me, they made my uke sound almost like a beautiful harp! I'm amazed at the difference in sound quality your picks achieve!
Thanks also for the Magnet (I DO use 'fridge magnets!) and the nametag. I am VERY impressed with the quality, love, and fair pricing of your superior instruments... It's very apparent that you put a lot of love into your Ukes!
That's what makes the difference between just 'making' an instrument, and 'giving birth' to an outstanding 'piece of art’.
Sincerely;
Marc Epstein
Aloha Kirsten and Joe!
I received my ukulele today and it is absolutely beautiful! I love it. I have not put it down since I first took it out of the box.
I tuned from a A - 440hz tuning fork, and am already torturing my fiancé with a crumby rendition of Israel Kamakawiwo'ole version of Somewhere over the Rainbow.
Unfortunately, my voice doesn't make quite as lovely a sound as your ukulele, so she has asked me not to sing as I play....;-)
Anyway, love the ukulele. It is a work of art. Thank you so much.
Yours Most Sincerely,
Ben Rubright
Aloha Joseph and Kristen,
I am extremely pleased with my new Kanile'a 'ukulele. It is everything I
hoped it would be and more. My 8 string custom ukulele has wonderful sound
and is a joy to play (even some picking!). It's beautiful and everyone
compliments it.
Thank you for all of your kind patience and thoughtfulness during my
decision making (and indecision!). I don't let my 'ukulele out of my sight
and enjoy it daily.
Mahalo nui loa,
Jeri Koering in Kaillua-Kona, Hawaii
Hi Joe & Kristen and Family~
Hope all is well with all. Sorry, couldn't sleep and decided to check out your website. Beautiful! We can't thank you enough for the wonderful work you did with our "Makana's" ukulele. Ramsey takes your ukulele out more than the one he originally got for Christmas the year before. We both think that the sound is so superior. Ramsey says that it doesn't take much effort for the sound to come out. Our friend’s just love the work you did. I just love to see their eyes pop out of their sockets and their jaws drop in awwh. Anyway, I better get to bed. Talk to you later and have an awesome year. Again, a BIG Mahalo to both of you.
Susan & Ramsey Tolentino
John Coe aka “Bear” Orange CA
Dear Joe and Kristen,
I am so very awe struck. I opened my Ukulele case and the beauty of what I seen just took my breath away. This was a sight that would please anyone, even the most demanding of customers. The wondrous beauty of the Instrument showed that you possess the absolute mastery of the luthier's building ability's.
When I got through ooohing, and aaahing, I started the tuning process. I was rewarded with the very bright sounds of the tonal quality emanating from this little jewel from Hawaii. The tone, and sustain of this Ukulele was the best ever. Bar none. I can see, feel, and hear the love and pride that went onto the crafting of my SUPER SIZED CONCERT UKULELE. I was very pleased with the ease of playability and the speed at which I could make and change my cording functions. My fingers were able to fly thru the most intricate pattern's of fingering, strumming, and picking. I love the super sensitive action that was expertly built into this Ukulele. It is the newest member of my playing family, but it has jumped into a most favored spot in my Ukulele ohana. Oh Joe I cannot find the word's that can convey my true feelings about the new "Baby" that was born of your love and the mastery of your Craft.
Soooooo a very large and ever lasting thanks for all of the special features, special decoration's, and special (ground breaking) features which you built into my Super, (in every way), Custom Concert Ukulele. May God Bless you, and
keep you safe.
Mahalo nui loa from a proud Papa Bear!
John Coe aka Bear
Geoff Watkins
The uke arrived yesterday and it was the topper of my day to finally sit down, open the box (the cats immediately laid claim to their new play fort!) and zip open the bag. Gotta tell you, that is one beautiful instrument. Even Megan (who is not impressed by much - teenager...sigh...) said it was a beauty and asked if she could play it. Said I was not going to tune it until Christmas as it is a present for me. Pat wouldn’t let me, till then she said it was all right, ear tuned it, played a few riffs and pronounced it awesome.
The evening was a smashing success.
Mahalo again for a beautiful instrument. I can just tell how much love and attention you put into it and that makes it even more special. In addition, that slotted head stock, phew! Looks do count.
Mahalo
Geoff
Gale and Ellie Keil
Aloha Joseph and Kristen,
I just wanted to take this opportunity to thank you for creating and providing us with two wonderful and exquisite instruments. Mahalo for such a pleasant transaction. I very much enjoyed interaction with both of you.
When I opened the box to tune the uke’s before Christmas I was astonished. They definitely exceeded my expectations. I couldn’t wait for Ellie to open “our” gift. On Christmas morning, she was awestruck! When she started playing her KC400, she expressed what a nice “feel” it has in her hands and that it was “easy” to play. The sound and tonal qualities are also exceptional.
The morning after Christmas I was just picking out a simple tune on my custom Kawaonahele when Ellie came rushing into the room exclaiming, “Wow that sounds good!” Not due to my playing abilities obviously. I think the Walnut Body that we decided on really made the difference in producing an exceptional and rare sounding uke. I could go on with praises but the bottom line is that we are both extremely happy and proud to be the owners of such fine instruments. We will definitely be recommending Kanile'a 'Ukulele to our family and friends.
Again, Mahalo Nui Loa
Much Aloha,
Gale and Ellie Keil
Vince Fernandez Hayward, CA
I wanted to thank you folks for helping me construct my ultimate ukulele. You knew exactly what I wanted and suggested the perfect wood for the soundboard. Western red cedar sings like a dream! All of the guys in the band are impressed with my new instrument. The ukulele has incredible volume. It cuts through acoustically and the electronics are the best I have ever heard! I’ve taken her to gigs for the past month and the compliments never end.
Mahalo! Vince
Eric Golub San Francisco, CA
I just want you to know that my long and eagerly awaited Kanile'a ukulele has arrived and despite the inevitable anti-climax after such impatience, I was not disappointed at all. I'm thrilled. the instrument is a real beauty, a joy to look at and hold, and its sound and how it speaks are finer still. I haven't tried plugging it in yet, but played acoustically, the instrument you've made for me is everything I hoped for! It seems each time I play it, I become more used to the eight strings, and it sounds better and better.
Mahalo nui loa, Eric
Keiji Furuya Charlotte, NC
I cannot put the ukulele down--it's just great!
The sound is incredible!
I just love to look at this 'shining stripes' on the
soundboard--this is one of the most beautiful pieces
of Koa wood I've ever seen.
Thank you, Keiji
Daisuke Anryu Yokohama City, Japan
Thank you for your perfect packaging and chocolate.
What a beautiful instrument it is !!
On every part (top, side and back), It shows me the beauty of the
Hawaiian wood.
Curved spalted mango back is my favorite part of it.
It sounds very rich!
(Bright and warm tone).
It has a perfect tuning (fretting).
On every position, It makes a fine code voice.
I'm very pleased with Neck shape.
Today I enjoyed 'Ukulele and Chocolate.
Thank you very much, Daisuke
Randy Okamoto Tucson, AZ
Aloha Souza’s,
I finally got a chance to thank both of you for my Awesome Ukulele. The wait was well worth it, kind of like when my keiki's (children) were born, a beautiful sight to behold... I have to say, I love everything about it! The look, feel and most importantly the tone! I can't thank you enough, so Mahalo, mahalo, mahalo...
It truly is a "joyful sound"
Mahalo Nui Loa,
Randy
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