The Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra (MYSO) and Violins of Hope-Wisconsin wove a tapestry of understanding through the power of art, conversation, and experience.

At a time of rising antisemitism and other forms of hate around our country, the lessons that the violins and their stories taught us were profoundly relevant for today.

MYSO worked with a broad spectrum of community, arts, and cultural groups across Wisconsin, as well as schools, universities, and faith-based organizations, connecting people from all walks of life. Through educational and cultural programs and exhibits, we brought our communities a once-in-a-lifetime experience to hear the stories of instruments owned and played by Jewish musicians and others targeted by the Nazis during the Holocaust.   

This residency honored the voices of the past, enlightened the present, and inspired the future. It was an honor to host the Violins of Hope from September 2025 through January 2026.