Ukulele brought to life at KoAloha

PAUL DYSON
During the tour of the 2,000-square-foot KoAloha factory, visitors observe the ukulele-making process, with firsthand accounts from craftsmen at each station on the production line. The process starts with selecting and drying koa wood. Then the wood is cut and shaped.

PAUL DYSON

KOALOHA
Alvin Okami taught himself to make and play the ukulele. Next up for the 10-year-old KoAloha company is a line of pineapple-shaped ukuleles.

PAUL DYSON
The tour concludes with a performance by the Okami men, Alan, left, Alvin and Paul.

KOALOHA
Alan Okami said, "It seems most people don't realize how much work goes into making an ukulele."

PAUL DYSON

PAUL DYSON
After shaping the ukulele, the neck is attached, followed by the fret board, bridge and strings. Then the instrument is polished and tuned.