Re-Enchanting Forests: Music as a Catalyst for Restoring Ireland’s Native Woodlands

Ireland was once the most forested nation in Europe. In the past 6,000 years, deforestation and land conversion have transformed Ireland from the most forested, at 80% biodiverse woodland coverage, to the least forested, now at a devastating 2%. With this deforestation comes the extinction of hundreds of species, the loss of an atmosphere-cooling carbon sink, and the degradation of soil, water, and air quality for humans and wildlife everywhere. The Irish, historically known as “the Gaels” or “Tree People,” have by the new millenia lost their trees. How do we restore this fundamental eco-cultural connection?

My current project seeks to bridge this rift by affirming the inextricable link between biodiversity and cultural continuity. To accomplish this, I am partnering with one of Ireland’s leading nonprofit reforestation organizations, Reforest Nation. I feel drawn to Ireland by a childhood connection with traditional Celtic music, and offer a parallel perspective as someone who grew up in the redwoods of Humboldt County, one of Earth’s last old-growth forests.By writing an album of environmentally-themed folk songs that draws from the musical traditions dearest to me, I hope to contribute to a rising tide of interest in humans’ ancient relationship with native forests and re-engaging with land stewardship. A million thanks to Jimmy Smyth, Grammy-nominated Irish musician, and Gearóid Mc Evoy, Drogheda wildlife biologist and Reforest Nation founder, for co-mentoring my project!

This partnership will culminate in a fundraising concert for Reforest Nation in May. I’m so excited to share the music I’ve written this year, as well as invite some kindred Irish musicians and artists to contribute their beautiful work to the cause! If you’re interested in getting involved, shoot me an email at sylvie.b.songs@gmail.com.

Check out Reforest Nation’s amazing work at https://www.reforestnation.ie/!