The Jacksonville Symphony will present “Violins of Hope: Building Bridges Through the Power of Music” on Feb. 15 at Jacoby Symphony Hall. This special concert features instruments once owned by Holocaust victims, restored by Amnon and Avshalom Weinstein, and performed by Symphony musicians under the direction of Music Director Courtney Lewis.
The program includes solo performances by Concertmaster Adelya Nartadjieva and narration of selected readings chosen by the Symphony’s Violins of Hope Advisory Council, comprising local leaders, educators and second-generation Holocaust survivors.
Guests can also view more than 60 of the restored instruments in the lobby before the concert.
Leading up to the event, the Symphony will host educational and outreach programs, including panel discussions and ensemble performances at the University of North Florida, the Jacksonville Public Library and Congregation Ahavath Chesed.
These events are free and open to the public, but tickets are required due to limited seating.
“Unfortunately, antisemitism is still prevalent today, and in some areas, even rising,” said Steven B. Libman, President and CEO of the Jacksonville Symphony. “Through ‘Violins of Hope,’ we aim to build bridges, fostering connection and empathy through music to stand against intolerance,”
Tickets for “Violins of Hope” are available at JaxSymphony.org or by calling the box office at 904-354-5547. The concert is part of the Greta Challen Berg Artist Series and is sponsored by Dr. Eugene and Brenda Wolchok.
