How do we preserve pernambuco while protecting the future of bow making?

In this episode of Omo, hosts Becka Hannigan and Brooke Esplin speaks with renowned bow maker Lynn Hannings and arts policy advocate Heather Noonan about pernambuco conservation, international regulation, and the realities facing the bow world in 2026.

Lynn Hannings brings decades of experience as a professional bassist, bow maker, restorer, and educator. A longtime teacher at the University of New Hampshire Violin Craftsmanship Institute and current Vice President of Alliance-International, she has been a leading voice in sustainable bow making and conservation efforts within the industry.

Heather Noonan, Vice President for Advocacy at the League of American Orchestras, works at the intersection of arts policy, government relations, and international treaty negotiations involving protected species and the movement of musical instruments across borders.

The discussion covers the history of pernambuco regulation, recent CITES negotiations, sustainable forestry efforts, and current bow wood restrictions. These regulations exist not to end bow making, but to preserve these species so they can continue to be responsibly used for generations to come. In order to really protect the future of Pernambuco in Brazil and our precious music traditions, we will need coordination and cooperation from all shops, makers, and musicians. This is not the time for apathy, but for action!

Resources:

Special Guests: Heather Noonan and Lynn Hannings.