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Institute of

HF Wood Research

Melodious but endangered -musical instruments made from protected wood species

Wood that makes Music to Life - For thousands of years, wood has been inseparably linked to the world of music. No other material is used as frequently and in such variety in instrument making.

© Volker Haag

Acoustic guitar with components of rosewood (Dalbergia spp.)

Even today, the selection of high-quality wood plays a decisive role in the construction of musical instruments. Tropical species such as ebony, mahogany, and rosewood are especially sought after for their aesthetic appeal and acoustic properties. However, the beauty and sound quality of these woods come at a price. Due to overexploitation - not only in instrument making but also in the production of luxury furniture and interior design - many of these species are now seriously endangered. As a result, they are subject to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), which regulates international trade in endangered species. In an article for the German Cultural Council’s newspaper Politik & Kultur, Gerald Koch reports on the current CITES regulations and the complex documentation requirements involved in the trade of protected woods used for the production of high-quality musical instruments

 

More informations:

Link to the artikel in „Politik & Kultur“

Link to Bundesamt für Naturschutz 

To the  Thuenenprojects: 

CITES-protected timber

Databases wood identification

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