Violins of Hope-Wisconsin

The Final Farewell

This month, Violins of Hope–Wisconsin invites audiences to experience the enduring power of music through a compelling film series exploring memory, resilience, and history. Together, these events illuminate powerful human stories of loss, courage, and hope that continue to resonate today.

History in Our Hands

Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra musicians reflect on the responsibility and emotional impact of performing on Holocaust-era violins, revealing how music honors memory, builds empathy, and inspires hope.

Be a Part of the Journey

The Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra (MYSO) is bringing Violins of Hope, a collection of instruments owned and played during the Holocaust, to the Wisconsin community for a five-month residency of educational and cultural programs, exhibits, and performances from September 2025 to January 2026.

Please join us for this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Testimonials from the Residency

"We were quite moved and emotionally impacted by the performance. It enhanced appreciation
and understanding of music to foster resilience, tolerance, unity and peace."

"This performance was very powerful. I felt like the past came alive and voice was given back to
the Jewish people who originally touched these instruments."

"It was very meaningful to see these instruments being used in living performance and so
important that their historical background was clearly emphasized."

Read the stories behind the violins

Violins of Hope carry on the stories of the musicians who played them, and the people who kept them safe. Visit our gallery to learn more about each violin.

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The Final Farewell

A Train Near Magdeburg

Footsteps of My Father

Winter
Journey

History in Our Hands

Be a Part of the Journey

Since 1983, the Maxwell Street Klezmer Band has brought high energy and soul to its performances of Jewish songs and dances from the Old Country. Fresh from the release of their sixth album, the band continues to enchant audiences of all ages with warmth and humor.

Under the artistic direction of Dr. Harold Kacanek and performed by musicians of the Concord Chamber Orchestra, the program celebrates Jewish musical traditions and the enduring human spirit these instruments represent.

Testimonials from the Residency

Read the stories behind the violins

The Final Farewell

A Train Near Magdeburg

Footsteps of My Father

Winter Journey

History in Our Hands

Be a Part of the Journey

Since 1983, the Maxwell Street Klezmer Band has brought high energy and soul to its performances of Jewish songs and dances from the Old Country. Fresh from the release of their sixth album, the band continues to enchant audiences of all ages with warmth and humor.

Under the artistic direction of Dr. Harold Kacanek and performed by musicians of the Concord Chamber Orchestra, the program celebrates Jewish musical traditions and the enduring human spirit these instruments represent.

Testimonials from the Residency

Read the stories behind the violins

Winter
Journey