Why this musical forest in Ambon striking all the right notes

The Sound of Green (SoG) Music Forest in Amahusu Village, Ambon City, Maluku, has become a unique fusion of music, nature, and community development, attracting significant attention for its innovative approach. Here’s why this musical forest is striking all the right notes:

1. Fusion of Music and Nature

The SoG Music Forest, envisioned by Ronny Loppies of the Ambon Music Office (AMO) and activists from the Boyratan art studio, integrates music with environmental conservation. This initiative allows visitors to enjoy both natural beauty and musical experiences in a serene forest setting.

2. Historical and Cultural Significance

Amahusu, known for its musical heritage and as the hometown of renowned singer Zeth Lekatompessy, was chosen for its deep connection to music and its vibrant community. The forest’s location capitalizes on this musical legacy, blending it with contemporary artistic and environmental goals.

3. Community and Economic Impact

The forest supports local artisans and musicians by providing a platform to sell Maluku cuisine, crafts, and musical instruments. It also aims to foster creativity and innovation among Ambon’s youth, offering spaces for music training, discussions, and recordings.

4. Environmental Conservation

The project promotes environmental sustainability by planting various tree species used in traditional Maluku musical instruments. This includes jackfruit, breadfruit, titi, gomu, and bamboo. The forest helps mitigate climate change impacts by increasing oxygen levels and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

5. Support and Collaboration

The development of the SoG Music Forest has received significant support from the Tourism and Culture Office of Ambon City and PLN, the state-run electricity company. Their contributions include infrastructure improvements like gazebos, tree houses, and electricity networks.

6. Educational and Tourism Value

The forest is not just a space for relaxation but also an educational experience. Visitors can see how traditional musical instruments are made, enhancing their understanding of local craftsmanship. The project also aims to attract both international tourists and locals, potentially boosting Ambon’s profile as a UNESCO City of Music.

7. Future Prospects

The SoG Music Forest is poised to play a role in promoting Ambon at international forums like the ASEAN Music Cities Forum, showcasing the city’s commitment to music, culture, and environmental sustainability.

Overall, the Sound of Green Music Forest exemplifies a successful blend of cultural heritage, environmental stewardship, and community engagement, making it a standout attraction in Ambon and a model for similar initiatives worldwide.

1. Innovative Concept

The musical forest combines the beauty of nature with the joy of music, offering a unique experience where visitors can enjoy both environmental tranquility and musical performances. This innovative fusion makes it a distinctive destination that stands out in the realm of eco-tourism and cultural tourism.

2. Community Engagement

The project is a collaborative effort involving the Ambon Music Office (AMO), the Boyratan art studio, and local landowner Jonas Silooy. By involving local artists and community members, the forest supports and promotes local talent while integrating cultural elements such as the Ambonia Ukulele music community and the legacy of Zeth Lekatompessy.

3. Environmental Impact

The SoG Music Forest contributes to environmental conservation by planting various tree species used in traditional musical instruments. This initiative helps mitigate climate change effects, such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing oxygen levels. The forest’s focus on sustainability demonstrates a commitment to both cultural and ecological preservation.

4. Economic and Social Benefits

The forest provides economic opportunities for local artisans and entrepreneurs by offering a platform to showcase and sell Maluku cuisine, crafts, and musical instruments. It also fosters creativity and innovation within the community, particularly among the youth.

5. Educational Value

Visitors to the SoG Music Forest can learn about traditional musical instrument production, including the making of tifa drums, flutes, and ukuleles. This educational aspect enriches the visitor experience and promotes cultural awareness.

6. Support from Key Stakeholders

The project has received substantial support from the Ambon City Tourism and Culture Office and PLN, the state-run electricity company. This support includes funding for infrastructure and facilities, such as gazebos and tree houses, which enhance the forest’s appeal and functionality.

7. Promotion of Ambon

The SoG Music Forest aligns with Ambon’s status as a UNESCO City of Music, reinforcing its cultural identity and enhancing its reputation as a tourist destination. It also serves as a model for integrating music and nature in tourism, potentially attracting international visitors and fostering regional cultural exchanges.