From pipes to musical pieces: Brazilian project makes PVC violins for children

The Locomotiva Project in Brazil’s Sao Paulo state revolves around the innovative concept of creating musical instruments, specifically violins and cellos, from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pipes. This initiative not only transforms pipes into instruments but also provides free music lessons to numerous young musicians. Ivan da Silva Oliveira, a luthier involved in crafting violins for the project, described the intricate process, involving 42 steps from cutting and heating the PVC pipes to framing and refining the instruments.

While the production is labor-intensive, it brings significant cost savings. Traditional violins crafted by luthiers can reach up to 8,000 reais ($1,540), depending on the wood used. Even an average violin costs around 800 reais, but utilizing PVC material reduces the cost to approximately 300 reais. Since the project’s inception in 2018, this cost-effective solution has enabled the organization to address the waiting list for instruments among youths aged seven to 17.

Conductor Rogério Schuindt emphasized the magic of turning a PVC pipe into a violin, creating music and engaging in various enriching activities. The project extends beyond violins, also producing cellos and establishing its own orchestra. The PVC pipes, typically employed in construction and hydraulic installations, are donated by the petrochemical company Braskem (BRKM5.SA).

The transformative aspect of this endeavor was highlighted by Gabriel Santos Espinoza, an 11-year-old student of the project, expressing the joy of knowing that a pipe that once carried water now resonates with music as he hugged his PVC violin.