During one of their visits several years ago, I took my dad and stepmom, Marge, to tour the Kamake Ukulele factory. I thought Dad, a violinmaker in his "spare" time, would enjoy it. And we did. However, that also jogged Marge's memory that she had a ukulele packed away somewhere.
After they got home, she searched and found it. It was a Kamaka dated December 1972! But it was in sad, sad shape. During the tour, we learned that they repair only Kamakas. Marge and Dad sent it to me and I took it in. That was the first week of June 2009.
Last week, I got a call saying it was ready for pickup. When I went in today, I overheard them saying today that there is now an 18-month backlog for repairs and only a Kamaka decendant does the repairs. I think it is a great grandson who does all the repair work.
They did a wonderful job and it sounds great! My boss plays a little bit so we enjoyed listening to it this afternoon. I tried to take photos that highlighted the beautiful koa wood.
Isn't it pretty?
1 comment:
That is beautiful!! We just saw a show about that factory -- TLC or some learning type of channel -- wonderful music and history. That is a treasured heirloom you have. Maybe you could take some lessons!! then play for us on youtube : )
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