The Leaf Orchestra
The Nissan LEAF Orchestra, an ensemble of rare leaf musicians, perform a serenade amid endangered local trees in Rajah Sikatuna Protected Landscape, Bohol, Philippines. As they blow into leaves to create vibrations that produce sound, the musicians also breath new life to the dying Philippine art of Leaf Music. The repertoire includes Deck the Halls, Silent Night, and Clair de Lune.
Leaf Music is a treasured art discovered by Philippine National Artist, Levi Celerio. A man who credits the leaf for saving his life. During World War 2, he was accused by Japanese soldiers of being a guerrilla. To prove he was a musician, he picked up a leaf, played a familiar tune and got them singing instead. Today, Leaf Music is a dying art as those who can play it have become rare.