Custom Kanile’a ‘Maui Story’ Baritone Ukulele

Preowned. 2021. A gorgeous Custom Kanile’a “Story of Maui” Baritone Ukulele exquisitely designed by company co-owner and master luthier Joe Souza and the Souza ‘ohana. Unlike the Platinum model, by which a limited run of between 10 and 50 instruments is made – this one is a true full custom piece depicting the story of Maui, the demigod, masterfully done by inlay artist Craig Lavin in partnership with Kanile’a ‘Ukulele.

The story of Maui is one popular in the islands and is told as such: Maui’s mother, Hina, was distressed because the sun moved across the sky too quickly, making it difficult for her kapa cloths to dry. Maui, inspired by his mother’s plight, decided to take action. He crafted a strong rope, often said to be made from his sister’s hair, and journeyed to Haleakalā, the summit of a volcano, where the sun rises. He then lassoed the sun’s rays, holding it fast and explaining his mother’s hardship and the need for longer days. The sun, initially struggling, eventually agreed to slow down its passage across the sky. Similarly, stories about Maui raising the Hawaiian islands from the sea with his magic fishhook are also common in Hawaii and across Polynesia. This act of slowing the sun allowed for longer days, benefiting the community with more time for tasks like farming and cooking. The story of Maui and the sun highlights values like perseverance, community welfare, and the power of a demigod to influence nature. Similar tales of Maui’s interaction with the sun are found across Polynesia, reflecting a shared cultural understanding of nature and the role of heroes.

This Custom Kanile’a ‘Story of Maui’ Baritone Ukulele was handcrafted of the finest materials. Joe used a special set of dark Hawaiian Koa wood with an iridescence to it that is very unique. It shimmers at certain angles, giving it greater depth upon closer inspection. The set of Koa wood also has a visual feature that is natural and in the shape of a heart on the back of the instrument. This natural design was used to convey the love we all hold for our islands and the special place that it is to us all. Master grade Gabon ebony wood fingerboard and bridge with themed inlay of various materials including wood, abalone shell, mother-of-pearl, and reconstructed stone. Matching sun flare inlay at the butt of the instrument. The soundboard was crafted of a premium set of flamed curly redwood, giving this instrument a warmth and clarity that extends beyond the typical baritone sound. Magic fishhook side sound port for a monitor-like experience by which the sound files upward toward the player as well as projects outward toward the audience. Gabon ebony top and back binding. Full paua, or abalone shell, inlay on the soundboard and rosette brings this instrument full circle as a piece of functional art. Honduran mahogany wood neck finished in a satin finish for a smooth-to-the-touch feel and a high gloss UV finish on the body. Gotoh geared tuners for precise and accurate tuning. Professional Mi-Si pick-up for quick plug-and-play.

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