Elle Jayne Henderson 41-Style Ukulele, Spruce Top, Wenge Back and Sides, EJ Henderson

(USED) Here’s a lovely and rare item, just in on consignment: a tenor ukulele from Elle Jayne Henderson, daughter of the legendary Wayne Henderson.

Everyone knows the work of Jayne’s famed father, and we’re happy to report that the apple does not fall far from the tree!  She cut her teeth in her father’s Rugby, VA shop, where this uke was made, and though she is still pretty early in her career, as luthiery careers go, we love what we’re seeing (and hearing.)  This uke doesn’t quite have the fit and finish of some high end factory instruments, but it is a beautiful, organic, handcrafted, and soulful musical instrument. It is made to be admired, loved and played. And it sounds spectacular!

It has a spruce top with a lovely vintage-style sunburst, with Wenge back and sides. Wenge is an African hardwood that reminds us quite a bit of Brazilian in its tonal response.  The ivoroid bound neck and body really pop off of the sunburst top, and the top border, rosette and heelcap bring some sparkly abalone elegance.  1 3/8″ nut, ebony fingerboards w/ snowflake and diamond inlays, and the familiar family headstock crest.  It has Grover open-back tuners. It is light, tonally robust, and has the visual and tonal sparkle of a modern day classic.

This is a rare and lovely instrument, a real find!  From a note included with the instrument: “This ukulele was completed
July 29, 2015. The Red Spruce is made from a tree felled naturally on Haw Orchard Mountain…where my husband and I were married in 2012. Following the ceremony, the wedding party walked to the 5089 ft. peak to celebrate. The African Wenge was purchased from the scrap bin of Comark International in Asheville, NC. I chose it because when tapped, it has a ring similar to Brazilian rosewood.”

This ukulele is serial #34 of what promises to be a very bright career. Elle Jayne, while early in her career is clearly up to the task and is carrying on the strong family legacy.  See the current issue of Fretboard Journal for a nice profile on E.J. Henderson. According to her website, Jayne’s current backlog of orders for a guitar is 3-4 years and a ukulele can be completed in around one year.

Condition is excellent with one finish impression in the top and some finish shrink-back in the back and sides and around the bridge. It is a sweet thing, indeed.

ON CONSIGNMENT, NO TRADE OFFERS PLEASE!
Serial #34
AMW Price: $2,750