Northern California Coast surfboard shaper Paul Kraus also makes ukuleles. Not only that, he's also a documentary filmmaker, and recently released "The Jumping Flea, Tales of the Modern Ukulele."
"Paul Kraus, filmmaker and ukulele builder, takes us behind the scenes to meet some of the most influential ukulele builders and players today! The music comes through loud and clear, with Jumpin’ Jim Beloff guiding us through the different eras of the ukulele’s popularity. An exceptional documentary film, featuring the music of Lyle Ritz, Jim Beloff, Bill Tapia, Bryan Tolentino, Michelle Kiba, and a host of others."
The video is available from
Lark in the Morning or from
North Pacific Productions.
Link
3 comments:
I purchased a concert uke, (I wanted a tenor but he didn't have one at that time) from Paul around the summer of 2004 - 05, while camping in Ft. Bragg. I also got a copy of "The jumping flee" and there was my uke in the movie, it's the curly koa one with the gecko inlay in the neck, my only complaint is 1 fret is off due to the inlay and I wish it was a tenor uke. Now 20+ years later, it still looks and plays like the day I bought it and sounds even better. Does anyone know what happened to Paul and when he passed, as I'm sure he has but I hope not.
Goodness, I don't recall this maker or this post. 20 years ago! Thank you bringing this back to mind. I'll poke around, see what I can learn.
Looks like his business is still operating in Fort Bragg. Maybe give them a call.
North Pacific Designs – Surfboards built to perform in all conditions – 1250 N Main St., Fort Bragg, CA 95437 (707) 961-0314
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