My Little Brown Gal Concert Ukulele

When I first got this Koa it looked very much like Claro Walnut.  I even took a picture of the wood and sent it to my supplier with that question since it was sold to me as Koa.  Nevertheless, I persisted with the project and as soon as I wet the wood with sanding sealer I knew that it was not Walnut.  It was just so BROWN, and this is not a look in Koa that I see.  It’s a Koa Concert, so I named it My Little Brown Gal Concert Ukulele.

my little brown gal concert ukulele

Because of the natural beauty of this Koa wood I really wanted to keep the accents simple.  I did use Blue Paua Abalone and Fuschia fiber for binding purfling and sound board rosette.  Otherwise, the India Rosewood binding was a natural.

my little brown gal concert ukulele

The fret board and bridge are India Ebony.  This ebony is coming to me totally black as opposed to the material I have been getting from Africa which is usually streaked with grey and/or mottled.  This ebony is a touch softer to work than it’s counterparts but I am more than willing to make the trade-off because of its color. I do my best not to stain any wood that I use. And, in addition, this ebony is not as brittle or “chippy” as some of the African ebonys.

my little brown gal concert ukulele

The accent wood is some of the last of my Vanuatu Maidou Burl.  The tuners are gold UPT by Gotoh.  I used Romero flourocarbon with wound low “G” for strings.  The neck is Honduran Mahogany with internal carbon fiber “passive” truss rod.

my little brown gal concert ukulele

All in all, My Little Brown Gal Concert Ukulele  is a very pleasing instrument both for the eye and ear.  This cutie is now waiting for a suitable lover at Hale Ukulele in San Diego.  You go girl!