By Ericka Kastner Fire-singed Douglas fir deadwood, collected at the base of Mount Shavano, makes up the soundboard of the steel-stringed baritone ukulele crafted by luthier Kurt Snyder. For every instrument that he makes, Kurt’s intention is to reflect the beauty and grace of the Rocky Mountains, both in styling and in sound. Seven years ago, the Salida native grew tired of being one of eight guitar players jamming together, so he decided to move on to the banjo. Never one to just go out and buy something he’s decided to try, Kurt had to make a banjo before playing ...