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January 2018 by t t.
DO NOT pay a deposit to place an order to Mike. If you see a completed instrument for sale in his workshop, buy it if it is good. But no deposit. This is what happened to me.... I used to trust him, and put down $1800 in October 2016 for a custom Tenor uke. It's January 30, 2018 today, 1 year and 3 months later. No uke, no news, nothing. I called, emailed, messaged...... I wish there was a ukulele forum that I could warn others about Mike's scam. I have a feeling I am not the only one out there.... Now I see through his antics like giving free lesson, educational chats, etc. It's all to make you part with the deposit. Even if his instruments are suppose to be good, it feels really bad owning an instrument from such an unscrupulous person. And how can students go to learn from such a dishonest person, who is only interested in your money? If you give him a deposit, you are just giving away charity money.
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March 2017 by Grant L.
I have to say, I used to think Mike was a respectable person through connecting with him as a fellow artist and business partner through a customized ukulele built by Mike himself for my dad. Recently, he has been extremely irresponsible with his communication and updates with another recent order my dad requested. We came into his studio to speak with him about commissioning two other ukuleles. Knowing that ukulele takes time and care and professional skills, we asked what is a reasonable time frame to complete. Mike said 1 month is required to complete the first one, which we were impressed by. After 1 month, no updates, no phone calls, so I called in to check, and ok, he needed another month or so to complete the project. Delays are expected for these kinds of project. But things got way out of hand when it happened not only once, but 4 times, and HALF A YEAR LATER, I just called him today and guess what, he needs another week to complete THE FIRST ukulele, and my parents SPECIFICALLY TRAVELED HERE FROM TAIWAN for the ukulele, when Mike PROMISED to be done by today. NEVER ONCE Mike made a phone call or sent an email. He may be a great teacher and ukulele maker, but his lack of professionalism and responsibility is essentially robbing our time, money and trust. Please, I strongly discourage anyone for commissioning him. His work ethics is appalling.
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November 2016 by Dani K.
Mike is a fantastic teacher! Took the beginner class tonight and I learned a ton of techniques that I wouldn't have learned from youtube videos. He focuses a lot on building a good foundation and good habits so you can have a better practice as you learn and start playing songs. The class flow was fun and I barely felt the 2 hours pass. I would definitely recommend attending a few classes. There's so much to learn and absorb from the simplest techniques.
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April 2016 by Gary P.
Mike DaSilva is a great guy with extensive knowledge about ukulele craftsmanship and history. He is very generous with his time and insights. My wife and I have taken his group classes several times and always enjoy ourselves.
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April 2016 by Boo N.
I've been playing the uke for almost 2 years. I wouldn't go as far too say I'm a pro, but definitely not a beginner anymore. I was self taught through youtube b4 i found this group. I'm so Glad i found this place! I've been to another uke club which was cool too, but this one was AWESOME! I've been to both beginner and advance beginner classes, but what is most fun is uke club nights. It happens every other wednesday (the club) and every time i go, i have a BLAST! Mike (teacher/uke maker) makes everything really easy to understand. I always learn something new (even in the beginner class). He makes it challenging for me at times, but that's exactly what i need to step my game up. If he's going to fast, he'll slow it down just enough to keep you going. I'll definitely be coming back for more. When i'm leaving, i feel like I can't wait till the next class/meeting! So much fun!! Oh.. not to mention, the ukes he makes are the best I've seen and played yet! I Don't have one yet, but hopefully down the road, I'll be graced by owning one of his masterpieces. From beginner to pro, i think everyone who has interest in ukes should come check this place out atleast once. It was my intention to go atleast once just to see how it was and now I'm hooked! All the other ukers are awesome too. I've learned plenty from them as well. Everyone is super nice and welcoming and willing to help with any advice you need. Im probably the newest face there, but I'm sure i won't be the last! Hope to see you there! Happy slappin' everyone!
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September 2015 by Ellen F.
Not a store, but a builder of high quality ukuleles! Very friendly very helpful. Gave me a lesson to improve my playing style. I didn't ask for the lesson, but was glad for it. Nothing finished many instruments in process. Internet is his friend!
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March 2009 by Zebra 8.
Have been to this place several times now and find it quite enjoyable. It's basically a large loft/work shop area with a stage. The Berkeley Ukulele Club meets twice a month and there is always a large turnout. Things are quite relaxed so don't expect a nicely organized practice session. Players of all levels and ages meet and that's what you get. Some awesome performances by the more advanced folks should they decide to get up on stage and play or the sometimes rather dissonant strumming of the many less advanced players which can be just as much fun. They just started giving beginner lessons also on Wednesdays. The quarterly potlucks are not to be missed. Also have been to a couple of the concerts/workshops which was great. Great acoustics in there. You get folks like James Hill play in front of 40 people and even get a chance to chat after. Quite ohana style. DaSilva is obviously passionate about what he is doing and the place has a great community feel.
