Soundpost: Letters to the Editor September 2020

TOGETHER FOR CHANGE

It’s always a pleasure to read an article by Philip Kass, as was the case with his piece in the 130th anniversary issue of the magazine (‘Taking Stock’, May). However, although he gave attention to the very real problems posed by the over-exploitation of natural resources, there was no mention of the work being done by violin and bow makers to assist their regeneration. Makers at the artisan level have always used a minimal amount of these materials. Musicians and makers alike have no need to feel guilty; the causes of extreme overuse lie elsewhere. Far better that natural resources are used in a careful and sustainable way than for even more plastic to be created, only to be sent to landfill or end up in the sea.