Ukulele A-Z - J, K and L are for....

Continuing my series of Ukulele A-Z - this time, the letters J, K and L!

JOINT

Simply a woodworking term, and in relation to ukuleles, usually referring to where the neck meets the body of the instrument.


KERFING

Strips of wood glued around the inside seams where the top and back meet the sides of the instrument to add strength and stability.


KOA

A beautifully figured dark wood that originates in Hawaii - considered by many to be the finest tone wood used in ukulele construction.


K-BRAND

The term given to a range of manufacturers who make their ukuleles, by hand in Hawaii.  Brands include Kamaka and Ko'aloha.


LAMINATED

The term applied to the type of wood used in construction of the ukulele - a laminated wood is made from very thin veneer strips of wood glued together and pressed flat. This is opposed to a solid wood which is simply a very thin cut of a solid, single piece of wood. Laminates are cheaper and as such more prevalent on cheaper instruments. Solid woods are preferable for their tonal qualities, though some very good lamminates do exist.


LEGATO

A playing technique that purely consists of playing hammer ons and pull offs on the strings.


LOWER BOUT

The term given (on a traditionally shaped ukulele) to the bottom "bulge" in the shape below the narrower waist.



LUTHIER

The term given to one who makes guitars and ukuleles


You can find the other, earlier A-Z entries on the Ukulele beginners guides page