December 3: Soloist will play Bach’s Cello Suites 4, 5 & 6
With mastery of the instrument and a total dedication to the message of Bach and the wonders of nature, James will raise awareness for preserving the Atlantic Forest and the brazilwood trees (otherwise known as Pernambuco trees), the endangered species that gives string instruments their voice.
The concert will take place at Black Park Chapel, Chirk LL14 5BB, at 3:00 PM. Between suites, James will share scriptures that inspired Bach’s compositions.
Dedicated to the master
James Barralet’s vast experience as a cellist has taken him to prestigious venues around the world. He has graced the stage as a concerto soloist and has enthralled listeners as a recitalist at renowned festivals such as the Newbury Spring Festival, the Ryedale Festival, Warwick International Festival, Stratford-Upon-Avon Chamber Music Series, Brighton Festival and the Northern Aldborough Festival, and from Europe to the Far East. Throughout his career, Barralet has won numerous awards, including the Muriel Taylor Cello Scholarship and a Hattori Foundation Scholarship.
After profound tinnitus ended a twenty-year career, James immersed himself in Bach for three years during lockdown.
Now, in collaboration with Trees of Music, Barralet is returning to performance in the church, Bach’s natural home, where he will perform three suites unaccompanied. This event not only showcases his amazing skill as a cellist but also highlights the importance of giving back to nature.
Giving back to nature
The voice of the strings is brought out by the bow, and since the 1700s bows have been made from the uniquely resonant brazilwood. Deforestation and over-harvesting for bows have brought this uniquely resonant tree to the brink of extinction.
The Atlantic Forest, the native biome of brazilwood, is one of the most threatened forests in the world due to deforestation and human activities. This unique ecosystem is a haven for diverse plant and animal species, many of which are found nowhere else on earth. Preserving the Atlantic Forest is crucial for maintaining the overall biodiversity of the region, ensuring the survival of its unique species and safeguarding the sustainable livelihoods of traditional communities.
Join him to reconnect with the forests that have sustained music, at a time when they desperately need our protection. Donations will go to planting brazilwood and its companion species in the Atlantic Forest of Brazil.
The concert on December 3 is free admission. Donations gratefully received.
Join us and help our team continue to regenerate the home of brazilwood.
The Pernambuco tree is at serious risk of extinction
Through collective action and support, Trees of Music can create harmonious symbiosis between nature, musicians and music lovers, and communities in Brazil. By planting brazilwood trees and other native species, our projects preserve an essential resource for musicians and contribute to the biodiversity and musical legacy of the Atlantic Forest.
