Classic Hawaiian Instrument Finds Home in Music-Loving Garwood

I like-a you...

Aloha! Ever want to learn a new instrument? How about a Ukulele? Garwood's Cranford Guitars now offers lessons for the oft-forgotten instrument. Guitar/Bass Instructor Jose Valencia is the specialist offering the lessons, according to the Cranford Guitars Website. The shop urges locals to contact them about rates or any questions you may have about the diminutive, but, lovable instrument.

The ukulele sometimes abbreviated as uke; is a member of the guitar family of instruments; it generally employs four nylon or gut strings or four courses of strings, resources say.


The ukulele originated in the 19th century as a Hawaiian interpretation of the machete, a small guitar-like instrument related to the cavaquinho, braguinha and the rajao, taken to Hawaii by Portuguese immigrants. It gained great popularity elsewhere in the United States during the early 20th century, and from there spread internationally. The tone and volume of the instrument varies with size and construction. Ukuleles commonly come in four sizes: soprano, concert, tenor, and baritone, musicians say.