In 1885 Suzuki Masakichi began mass production of violins. After great success on the world market, the company expanded its production on guitars, mandolins, shamisen and finally from 1928 the ukulele. After the war, the company was split at the instigation of the US occupying power. Suzuki Violin (often referred to as Nagoya Suzuki Violin) remained at the Nagoya headquarters, whereas Kiso Suzuki Violin settled down in Nagano Prefecture. Ukulele production at the headquarters was discontinued in 1971. What is sold today under the „Suzuki Ukuleles“ brand are products of Suzuki Music, founded in Hamamatsu in 1953.