This is my first time using Engelmann spruce instead of Sitka. Engelmann is an inland alpine species and the best boards have this tight grain and tiny ray figure in it. I think it has a big, cheerful voice and look forward to using it more. I got a stack of it from another luthier, Jayson Bowerman, so stay tuned for more ukes with these tops. The back and sides are curly Claro walnut salvaged from a gunstock blank. The neck is hemlock and walnut left over from the yurt we built in the back yard. The pistachio fretboard, headplate and bridge are from California orchards. Over all, this is a simple build with some beautiful wood grains, easy playability and good dynamic range. I’m very happy with it.

“It is a joy to play an ukulele built especially for me! Part of the experience was having updates on the build with pictures and hearing stories of where and how the wood was acquired. And I love showing the YouTube of “Completed work #573” to my friends. I asked Aaron for a spruce top with curly walnut back and sides, and a pistachio fretboard with green stripes and he found the perfect, most beautiful pieces of wood. This instrument plays so easily and sounds bright and full. I cannot stop playing it! It is truly an exquisite piece of artwork! Thank you!
- K. B. ”