Mana Music Quartet receives innovative flax fiber string instruments

HONOLULU — A collaboration between Belgium-based luthier Tim Duerinck, Mana Music Hawaii founder Joshua Nakazawa and HoGent College University has brought flax fiber string instruments – two violins, a viola and a cello – to Honolulu. These instruments are the first of their kind in the nation, providing environmentally friendly and durable options for string musicians in the state.

Flax fiber comes from the bast of the flax plant, the inner layer of a plant’s stem. The fiber, typically used to make linen since 8,000 BCE (10,000 years ago), is also a sustainable alternative to carbon or glass fiber.

String instruments are typically made from various types of wood, which can be costly and fragile. Hawaii’s tropical climate, with its heat and humidity, can easily damage wood instruments. And with weddings, parties and other events held outdoors, the elements can easily damage traditional instruments.

“Through creating these flax fiber instruments, we hope to provide options for musicians that are less expensive and have the ability to last longer than traditional instruments,” said Duerinck in a news release. “With Josh’s help, we’ve been able to get a comprehensive understanding of how they work in different kinds of atmospheres and are thrilled with the results.”

In 2018, Duerinck began to research and develop the first flax fiber instrument with support from HoGent College University and the University of Ghent. Nakazawa saw Duerinck’s work featured in various publications and reached out to inquire about making instruments for Mana Music. Following discussions, Duerinck crafted a flax fiber cello for Nakazawa to test in Hawaii. The feedback resulted in the four carefully crafted instruments featuring designs of gold leaf inlay inspired by the flora and fauna of the islands.

“It’s an honor to be working with Tim at the forefront of this kind of instrument innovation. He has done a terrific job of creating a durable instrument that sounds amazing too,” said Nakazawa. “After trying it in concert halls with a full orchestra and with smaller ensembles outdoors, it’s clear that this development will have a substantial impact on musicians both here and across the world.”

The instruments will make their debut at a performance by Mana Music Quartet for Coral Reef Alliance’s 30th anniversary fundraising gala in San Francisco on Oct. 19 following the release of the group’s second album, “Journey Through Hawaii.”

The public can book performances with the flax fiber instruments through Mana Music Hawaii LLC. A portion of the proceeds from these performances will be donated to Coral Reef Alliance to support its mission to keep coral reefs healthy.

The Nā Hōkū Hanohano award-winning ensemble is comprised of cellist Nakazawa, owner and founder of Mana Music LLC and a tenured member of the Hawaii Symphony Orchestra; violinist Eric Silberger, a prize winner of the XIV International Tchaikovsky Competition; violinist Dr. Mann-Wen Lo, a professor in violin performance at the University of Houston who performs throughout the U.S.; and violist Duane Padilla, 2011 Nā Hōkū Hanohano award winner for Jazz Album of the Year and teacher of violin performance at Punahou School.

The back of the instruments display island-inspired designs made of gold leaf inlay. (courtesy Tim Duerinck)

Sarah Yamanaka covers news and events for Spectrum News Hawaii. She can be reached at sarah.yamanaka@charter.com.