Custom Kanile’a Maoli no Tenor Ukulele
A Custom Kanile’a like no other with a connection to the people, culture, and land like no other ukulele has ever done – the Kanile’a ‘Maoli No’ or “truly native” Tenor Ukulele handcrafted entirely of endemic woods from Hawaii.
The Maoli No was created out of a commitment Kanile’a has made to the reforestation of Hawaii and protection of the environment. Iliahi and Ohia lehua wood make up the body, neck and key features of this gorgeous custom tenor ukulele. No live tree was cut and it was made by Kanile’a in partnership with the Hawaii Legacy Hardwoods’ Legacy Carbon program.
Premium Curly Koa Body, ‘Iliahi wood TRU Bracing, ‘Ohi‘a Lehua kerfing, Koa tail and heel blocks, ‘Ohi‘a Lehua Binding Front and Back, “He Ali‘i Ka ‘Aina He Kaua Ke Kanaka” Koa & sand rosette, ‘Ohi‘a lehua fret Board and bridge, Koa head plate, Koa neck with ‘Ohi‘a lehua center strip, sand kahili and crossed hoe position markers and logo. The rosette inlay is absolutely stunning and uses Kailua Beach white sand with the inlay He ali’i ka ‘āina; he kauā ke kanaka, which means “The land is Chief; man is its servant” – an ancient Hawaiian saying attesting to the wisdom and connection of the Hawaiian people with the land. Fretboard marker inlay of kahili – a symbol of the Hawaiian aliʻi chiefs signifying power from the divinities with two crossed hoe paddles on positions 3, 5, 7, 10, 12, and 15.
This Custom Kanile’a Maoli No is the first one to be made and it bears no serial number. The very first one made and it is the very instrument showcased at the 2016 NAMM Show in Anaheim, CA. It was meticulously handcrafted and cared for, virtually going unplayed for the entire time it was owned. The instrument has a very full and beautiful sound with a tonal personality entirely unique all its own and quite different from the typical Kanile’a sound. Great clarity. Wonderful sustain and projection. Nice warm sound with excellent low notes as well.
A once in a lifetime opportunity to own an ukulele entirely handcrafted out of native Hawaiian hardwoods and with a purpose that is both consistent with the ancient practices of the Hawaiian people and sustainable in 21st century ukulele luthiery. ID#:180178
Price: SOLD