Phil Henderson Custom Tenor Ukulele “Turtle” – Shamel Ash

Meet “Turtle” – A One-of-a-Kind Custom Tenor Ukulele by Phil Henderson

Introducing “Turtle,” a meticulously handcrafted custom tenor ukulele by renowned luthier Phil Henderson. This extraordinary instrument stands out not only for its eye-catching design but also for its exceptional tonal qualities, making it an ideal choice for musicians seeking a unique voice that combines warmth, clarity, and expressive potential. Designed with both aesthetic appeal and outstanding sound projection in mind, “Turtle” serves as a true work of art crafted for those who appreciate the finer details in their musical instruments.

A key feature that captures attention is the stunning Shamel ash top, which contributes to a crisp, articulate tone with impressive clarity and sparkle. The bright character of the Shamel ash enhances note separation and provides a lively acoustic response. Complementing this, the quilted Sapele back and sides add a visual depth that reflects light beautifully while imparting a warm, mellow resonance—perfect for both strumming accompaniment and melodic solos. The combination of these tonewoods creates a rich tapestry of sound that responds dynamically to touch and playing style, offering a balanced and nuanced tonal palette that elevates any performance.

Whether you're engaging in intricate fingerpicking, playing lead melodies, or supporting a group session, “Turtle” consistently delivers clear, resonant tones with excellent sustain and projection. Its artistic presence, combined with remarkable sound quality, allows musicians to connect deeply with their audience, inspiring confidence in both solo and ensemble settings.

Features & Specs of the Custom Phil Henderson Tenor Ukulele Turtle Shamel Ash:

• Body Style: Tenor Ukulele — offers a full, warm sound with ample projection, making it suitable for both performance and recording applications.

  Top Wood: Shamel Ash — selected for its bright, crisp qualities and visually striking grain, contributing to a lively tone and striking appearance.

  Back & Sides: Quilted Sapele — chosen for its warm, deep resonance and eye-catching quilted figure, enhancing both tonal richness and visual appeal.

  Neck: Mahogany — provides stability and a smooth feel, supporting comfortable playability across all fret positions.

  Fingerboard & Bridge: Rosewood (or luthier's choice—please call to confirm) — ensures smooth playability, durability, and optimal tonal transfer, enhancing overall sound quality.

  Finish: Natural Gloss — highlights the natural beauty of the tonewoods while protecting the instrument’s surface for long-lasting durability.

  Nut & Saddle: Bone — enhances sustain and tonal clarity, contributing significantly to the ukulele’s overall brightness and projection.

  Tuning Machines: Premium Closed-Gear Tuners — provide precise tuning stability and a sleek appearance that complements the instrument’s refined craftsmanship.

  Why You’ll Love “Turtle”

  One-of-a-kind: Each Phil Henderson custom ukulele is uniquely crafted with attention to detail, ensuring that no two instruments are alike. This individuality makes “Turtle” a collectors’ piece and a personal companion for your musical journey, embodying artistry and craftsmanship at every level.

  Custom Tonewoods: The thoughtful pairing of Shamel ash and quilted Sapele results in a balanced tonal spectrum—clarity and articulation combined with warmth and depth—creating a versatile instrument capable of handling various musical styles and preferences.

  Playability & Feel: With precision fretwork, a carefully set action, and a balanced response, “Turtle” offers a highly comfortable playing experience. Its smooth neck profile and responsive setup make it accessible for players of all levels, encouraging expressive playing and technical accuracy that resonate over time.

  Call to Order – Custom Ukuleles Sell Quickly!

  Please Note: Due to the popularity of Phil Henderson’s custom ukuleles, “Turtle” may be snapped up quickly. We recommend contacting us promptly to confirm current availability. 
  Call or email us to request detailed images and specific information about the ukulele currently in stock, ensuring you don’t miss the opportunity to own this exceptional instrument tailored to your playing style and tonal preferences.

  Island Bazaar Ukes – Trusted Experts in Custom & Boutique Ukuleles

  As Southern California’s premier ukulele retailer, we specialize in offering rare, high-quality, custom ukuleles that you won’t find elsewhere. Our dedicated team of passionate musicians and luthiers is committed to helping you discover the perfect instrument—whether through our extensive online selection or in-person visits at our Huntington Beach