Tree Conversations - excerpt #1 'ode to the woods'

The mysterious „Kopfbuchen“ (head-beeches) in the Kottenforst in Bonn, Germany are approx. 250 years old trees and living witnesses of a historical agricultural use of the forest. At that time, these beeches were regularly pruned after 10 to 15 years at a height of about two meters. The beech trees that sprouted again and again grew back and the cut off part was used as firewood. In addition, the cattle driven into the forest (cows, pigs, sheep, goats) ate the regrowing shoots of the trees. Thus, over the course of many years, their unique appearance was created.

For me, these trees are a universal symbol of life and suffering.
In times of forest and species extinction and the increasing separation of man from nature, it is probably more important than ever that people become aware of their mutual interconnectedness with nature.

The project "Tree Conversations" tries to get in touch with trees through musical improvisations and wants to build an emotional bridge to these fascinating, mysterious and beautiful beings.

Many thanks to my fellow musicians, the film team and to Hans Lüdemann, who lent me his wonderful Wittmayer Clavichord.

Lucas Leidinger, spring 2022

Musicians:

Lucas Leidinger - Clavichord
Akiko Ahrendt - Violin
Thomas Sauerborn - Cymbal, Toys

recorded at Kottenforst Bonn 27.06.2021
recording & mix: Thomas Sauerborn
video: Heiko Specht, Jenny Otto
concept: Lucas Leidinger

supported by Musikfonds e.V.