Violins of Hope

Posted By Arbus on Jan 13, 2025 | 0 comments

By Lorrie DeFrank

Seventy lovingly restored string instruments that symbolize resilience and unity following indescribable horror will be showcased in a series of events in Jacksonville.

Violins of Hope: Building Bridges Through the Power of Music will feature instruments that were played by Jewish musicians before and during the Holocaust, each with its own story that will be shared to educate the community and inspire understanding.

Presented by Jacksonville Symphony as a highlight of its 75th anniversary season, the project will culminate with a concert by symphony members playing the restored instruments and Jacksonville Symphony Chorus conducted by Music Director Courtney Lewis in Jacoby Symphony Hall on February 15. Concertmaster Adelya Nartadjieva will perform solos and guest speakers will do readings selected by the Violins of Hope Advisory Council consisting of local leaders, educators, and second-generation Holocaust survivors. Attendees may view at least 50 of the instruments in the lobby before the concert. Each will have a card telling its story. The concert is part of the Greta Challen Berg Artist Series.