Kumalae Soprano Ukulele - Hawaiian-Made

A traditional Hawaiian soprano with classic proportions & feel

This Kumalae soprano ukulele is a genuine Hawaiian-made instrument from circa the 1920s, built entirely from koa and to classic soprano proportions rooted firmly in early ukulele design.

Kumalae is one of the important historic Hawaiian ukulele names, associated with the instrument’s formative years and its rise in popularity during the early twentieth century. Instruments from this tradition favour simplicity, light construction, and a direct, responsive sound, rather than modern embellishments or electronics.

Compact, lightweight, and unmistakably soprano in feel, this ukulele offers an authentic playing experience that reflects the origins of the instrument. It is supplied in a fitted semi-hard case and has been professionally checked over, making it a sound choice for players or collectors looking for a true Hawaiian soprano, rather than a modern reinterpretation.

For players or collectors drawn to the roots of the ukulele, this Kumalae soprano makes real sense. It offers the traditional Hawaiian soprano experience in its most straightforward form — compact, lightweight, and responsive — built entirely from koa and dating to around the 1920s. It isn’t modern or a reissue ukulele, but an original-style instrument from one of the names associated with the ukulele’s early history, making it a sensible choice for someone who wants authenticity rather than embellishment.

SPECIFICATIONS:

  • Maker: Kumalae

  • Style: 1

  • Instrument type: Soprano ukulele

  • Country of origin: Hawaii

  • Body size: Soprano

  • Top: Koa

  • Back & sides: Koa

  • Neck: Koa

  • Fingerboard: Koa

  • Bridge: Koa

  • Finish: Natural gloss

  • Tuners: Original wooden friction pegs

  • Scale: Traditional soprano scale

  • Era: Cira 1920s

  • Case: Fitted semi-hard case included

CONDITION:

Overall, this Kumalae Style 1 soprano ukulele is in very good to excellent condition for a circa-1920s Hawaiian instrument.

There are a few light surface marks, which is entirely expected and remarkably modest considering nearly a century of life. These are cosmetic and do not detract from the instrument’s playability or overall presentation.

There are also three small grain splits to the side, which have been present and stable for approximately 40 years. These have not moved, do not affect the instrument structurally, and are consistent with natural wood movement in an all-koa instrument of this age. The ukulele remains structurally sound, and the instrument retains its light, responsive feel.

It has been professionally checked over to ensure it plays comfortably and reliably.

In short, this is a well-preserved, honest example of a traditional Hawaiian Kumalae soprano ukulele, showing age in a way that is appropriate, understood, and stable.

£500

Historical note:

Kumalae was one of the key Hawaiian ukulele makers during the instrument’s early years, operating in Hawaii at the time when the ukulele was first gaining international popularity.

CONTACT DETAILS: Alan Yates Music

PHONE: 07764 880016

EMAIL: contact@alanyatesmusic.co.uk

ITEM LOCATION/CARRIAGE: Seller happy to post if buyer pays postage (£20 - 24-hour tracked & signed for) or can collect from Blackpool. Insurance cover can also be arranged separately.

BUYER PAYMENT METHOD: Discuss with AYM.