In the radio programme Tonart on Deutschlandfunk Kultur, Gerald Koch was interviewed by host Marie König on the importance of CITES-protected woods in the manufacture of high-quality musical instruments. The interview was prompted by his article "Resonant, yet Endangered", which was published in Politik & Kultur, the newspaper of the German Cultural Council. In this article, he provides a comprehensive explanation of the complex regulations of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).
Trade in instruments containing components made from Brazilian rosewood is subject to particularly strict controls. For this rare species, listed in CITES Appendix I, it must be proven that the wood was harvested or processed before the listing date in July 1992. By contrast, instruments made from other rosewood species listed in CITES Appendix II, as well as from ebony or mahogany, fall under an exemption: finished instruments and accessories are not subject to CITES restrictions. However, trade in raw woods for instrument making continues to be strictly regulated – an important measure to ensure the protection of endangered tree species.
More informations:
Contact:
