Where the Name Ukulele Came From

Did you know that the name Ukulele can roughly be translated as jumping flea in Hawaiian?  The Ukulele is a small guitar with 4 strings which is seldom more than 24 inches long. It is tuned in the octave middle-C.  The ukulele's origins are attributed to three Portuguese immigrants, Manuel Nunes, Joao Fernandes and Augustine Dias. It is said that they introducing the instrument to the Hawaiian Islands in 1879. They based the design of the ukulele on instruments from their native home. The Hawaiians loved the sounds these small guitars made and the fast speed the musicians played them.  The speed of the player's fingers is what the name Ukulele most likely refers to.

Tip of the Day- Sax Damage

Don't run over your sax with your car.  It will end up looking like this!

November 7 Music Fun Facts

Did you know that on this date in 2006, the game “Guitar Hero II” for Playstation 2 was released in North America?

What is the Difference Between A Viola and a Violin?

We are often asked to explain the difference between a violin and a viola. They are both string instruments, look alike, and both are usually played with a bow.  Where they differ is that the violin is smaller than the viola and has shorter strings. Viola strings are long and thick which gives it a lower pitch. The violin produces a higher sound than the viola. For more information about violins and violas visit Scott Russ Music on Sunrise Highway in Merrick.

Spocks Beard at BB King

Spocks Beard at BB King last night. Keyboard player, Ryo Okumoto, is using one of our New Hammond SK173 Keyboards! Great concert!

Used Classical Artesano Guitar

This is a beautiful handmade classical guitar made by Artesano in Spain in 1987. Looks like it was barely played! Fabulous condition and plays beautifully! Some minor scuffs but barely noticeable. 
Visit Scott Russ Music for more information.

1949 Vintage York Silver Plated Trombone

This is a Vintage York Silver Plated Trombone c.1949. These Grand Rapids, MI horns were well made from solid quality brass. This one is silver plated. The Grand Rapids plant closed in 1971. This York Trombone is in excellent playing condition, despite some cosmetic flaws. It plays like a small bore horn with a sweet centered tone. Perfect for a player or collector, this horn is a fine piece of American workmanship and expertise! Comes with the original case also in good condition. For more details visit Scott Russ Music.