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When one tugs at a single thing in nature, he finds it attached to the rest of the world.
John Muir
Naturalist and Writer
Remember, Wood comes from Trees!
An estimated 200 different species of trees are used to make musical instruments. Ebonies, rosewoods and mahoganies have been valued for centuries for their resonance and beauty. But now, according Irish non-governmental organisation Just Forests, at least 70 of these species are in serious decline and are threatened with extinction in the wild. “Timber species decline is not just a third world issue,” says Tom Roche of Just Forests. “The fear that the majestic Sitka Spruce of Alaska-the main species for numerous musical instrument soundboards- could be gone in six years has prompted Gibson Guitars, Martin Guitars and Baldwin Pianos to join forces with Greenpeace to act.”
To draw attention to these issues, Just Forests is organising a Sound of Wood concert tour for 2008-2009. “We want musical artists to reflect this present-day tragedy in their music and inspire Irish music-lovers into action to address this problem of global importance,” says Roche.
More information on 046-9737545, www.thesoundofwood.com
© The Irish Times. Saturday, March 8, 2008.