The ukulele is a traditional Hawaiian musical instrument of the guitar family. It originated from the Portuguese machete brought by immigrants and evolved into the modern ukulele. Ukuleles are typically made of wood like acacia koa but can also be made of plastic or other materials. They have 4 strings but some models have 6 or 8 strings. Famous ukulele players include Israel Kamakawiwo'ole, Jesse Kaleihia Andre Kalima, James Hill, and Roy Smeck.