A gift for the future
A Forest for Patrick Robin
Under the patronage of Tabea Zimmermann
It begins with one tree
Even one tree is a beginning. And a forest can take shape on around 5,000 square metres.
With “A Forest for Patrick Robin”, we give our memories something living. A new forest of native trees, including pernambuco, is taking shape in Brazil – planted in Patrick’s memory and supported by people who feel connected to him.
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Patrick Robin · 1956–2025
Why a forest for Patrick Robin?
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Patrick Robin gave wood a voice.
The French violin maker created violins, violas and cellos that bring people together through music around the world. In May 2025, he died from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
Tabea Zimmermann plays a viola he made. His work lives on in its sound. She remembers with deep gratitude a man whose exceptional skill was matched by his modesty.
Patrick shared his knowledge with young violin makers. His instruments also accompany young musicians as they find their way. To many, he was a valued colleague, teacher and friend.
With “A Forest for Patrick Robin”, we give our memories something living. A new forest in Brazil connects his memory with our responsibility for the natural world that sustains our craft. Native trees, including pernambuco, take root and grow, supported by people who feel connected to him.
His name thus connects remembrance with the future: what Patrick passed on through his work and generosity finds a new expression in planting and caring for trees together.
More about Patrick Robin
We can make a start now. Plant one tree, add more, and work together to help them take root and grow. That takes people on the ground whom we trust to care for the young trees. And people who support us, each in their own way.
A living, diverse forest
For almost 250 years, pernambuco has connected Brazil’s natural world with music. Every new tree begins as a seed and a seedling. The connection with the Pataxó Hã-Hã-Hãe nursery brings knowledge, experience and a deep bond with the forest to this endeavour.
Where forests grow, water remains.
Where water remains, life grows.
Project update · 8 October 2026
A beginning we share
A possible site has been identified
Instituto Floresta Viva (IFV) has proposed a site in Bahia for “A Forest for Patrick Robin”. Together, we are working towards the final site selection and preparing the first plantings. Our memories are becoming a shared commitment.
Trust rooted in local cooperation
IPCI has worked successfully with Instituto Floresta Viva (IFV) for many years. This trust supports our first steps – and our shared responsibility to help the young trees grow and protect them for the long term.
From Uruçuca to the Pataxó Hã-Hã-Hãe
The map connects the region around Uruçuca and Floresta Viva near Serra Grande with the Pataxó Hã-Hã-Hãe territory of Caramuru–Catarina Paraguassu near Pau Brasil.
A gift for the future
“A Forest for Patrick Robin” brings together the memory of a remarkable person and a shared commitment to nature. This idea can inspire further forests bearing the names of orchestras, institutions or individual musicians. Each tells its own story and reflects the shared bond between music, people and nature.
Together, we can carry IPCI’s work forward and help a forest grow. Whether through planting, caring for trees or making a donation – an idea becomes a living forest.
Support “A Forest for Patrick Robin” or other projects
IPCI Deutschland e.V.
Your donation goes to IPCI Deutschland e.V. The association carries out the projects on behalf of and in keeping with the aims of IPCI International.
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