Violins of Hope: Composing an Era of Harmony for Our Community

In the midst of World War II, as Germany battled across Europe, The Holocaust was taking place. Jewish prisoners and others targeted by the Nazis played violins in the ghettos and concentration camps. Many musicians were forced to play; others played them as a form of resistance.

During the Holocaust, as the Jewish people were dehumanized, discriminated against, and mass murdered by the Nazis and their collaborators, musical instruments too bore witness to this atrocity. But today, their music bears witness to this history: rising again, stronger and more vibrant - a testament to survival, hope, and the resilience of the human spirit.

This is the transformative journey of Violins of Hope-Wisconsin.

The Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra 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. We are pleased to welcome Linda Edelstein, CEO, Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra, who will help us to learn more about this residency and how we can participate.

Serving as the Chief Executive Officer of Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra, Linda Edelstein takes the leadership role in all facets of the organization, including strategic planning, board recruitment & engagement, donor cultivation, stewardship, & fundraising, financial, and managerial controls, and serves as vice chair of the Milwaukee Youth Arts Center.

First Course

Garden Salad, 1/2 Grilled Cheese Sandwich & Cup of Tomato Bisque

Warm Rolls & Butter

Second Course

Cookies & Bars - Chef's Choice

Coffee & Tea Service

Host or Publisher Woman's Club of Wisconsin