Limmud AZ 2019

Violins of the Holocaust – Strings of the Holocaust

Violins of Hope tells the remarkable stories of violins played by Jewish musicians during the Holocaust.  Israeli violinmaker, Amnon Weinstein, has devoted the last 20 years to locating and restoring the violins of the Holocaust as a tribute to those who were lost.  He has restored over 60 violins as a way to give voice to the victims and reinforce positive messages of hope and harmony.
Each violin has its own unique and inspiring story and through them we learn about the Holocaust in a deeply personal way.  These instruments serve not only as powerful reminders of an unimaginable experience but also reinforce lessons of tolerance, inclusion, and diversity.  Over 30 of the violins will be in the Valley of the Sun from late February through March 2019 and will be on public display and played in concerts throughout the Valley.
At Limmud, we will share an excerpt of a PBS-produced documentary Violins of Hope: Strings of the Holocaust as well as present materials about several of the violins featured in the National Jewish Book Awards winner, Violins of Hope.  Participants will learn about Motele Schlein’s violin that was played by the 12-year old boy while he was in the Partisans.  Participants will learn how his violin played an important role in sabotaging German soldiers.  We will also learn about the violin of Feivel Wininger from Romania and how his violin helped keep a family alive during the Holocaust.
Information will be made available about concerts, book talks and exhibits where the public can see the violins.