Violins of Hope - WI - Violins of Hope-Wisconsin

Composing an era of harmony for our community

In the midst of World War II and the Holocaust, as Jewish people and others targeted by the Nazis endured unimaginable persecution, music persisted. Violins were played in ghettos and concentration camps, sometimes by force, sometimes as an act of resistance. Even in the face of dehumanization and violence, these instruments bore witness.

Today, their music rises again, stronger and more vibrant, a testament to survival, hope, and the resilience of the human spirit.

Through Violins of Hope–Wisconsin, the Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra (MYSO) brought this powerful collection of Holocaust-era instruments to our community for a five-month residency of performances, exhibitions, and educational programs from September 2025 through January 2026.

That spirit didn’t end there. It lives on in every MYSO performance, where, for 70 years, music has inspired the best in our students and touched the heart of our community.

Testimonials from the Residency

I was grateful to be able to attend this wonderful concert, because I appreciate so much the sacrifice made by the people who owned those instruments. The fact that they have been restored so beautifully is a testament to the best of the human spirit. I was in awe of their beauty, both the physical appearance and the sound quality. To see them nearly made me tear up, knowing their history. Oh, the stories those violins could tell!

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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Composing an era of harmony for our community

5

Months

70

Instruments

65

Partners

Testimonials from the Residency

Read the stories behind the violins