Since we re-started Beansprout, I have enjoyed making what I want, but also paying attention to what seems most popular with customers and fans. I’m willing to lead towards what seems to be making an impact while staying true to my aesthetic and values. These Myrtle alto ukuleles made with one piece tops and backs have turned into a “thing” and I’ve been happy to go along with it. They have a great Wabi-Sabi vibe to them with the asymmetry, natural flaws/features and a muted natural color palette. The Myrtle body and mahogany neck are salvaged from scraps from a furniture maker and the pistachio is from California orchards.
“Let me just start by saying a big thank you to everyone who had a hand in the order. My instrument, the alto myrtle ukulele #431, arrived safely last Friday. I had very high expectations for it, and I am happy to say that it is has exceeded those high expectations in nearly every way!
It is very easy for anticipation to ruin something like this. The months of waiting can lead you to build up the idea of the thing so much in your own mind that the thing itself can never live up to it. My beansprout is, hands down, the most beautiful physical object I have ever held in my own two hands. The look the feel, the sound; basically every aspect of this instrument continues to amaze and fascinate me. Your care, dedication, and craftsmanship are evident in every aspect of it. Even now, several days later, I can’t quite believe that it is real and that it is really mine!
I did have some reservations about it when I ordered it. I really love the concert scale was skeptical about your in-between “alto” scale. Now that I have played it, I think you may be right. This is basically a Goldilocks size; it is just right. The slight radius makes it the most comfortable fretboard I have ever had the pleasure of playing and the neck profile is the best I have ever held.
The sound is also unparalleled in my experience. Beautiful tone, great sustain, and wonderfully balanced.
Thank you, from the bottom of my heart for creating such a beautiful instrument.
- A. L. ”