Lexington, Kentucky, February 10, 2026
The University of Kentucky will host a series of events centered around the ‘Violins of Hope’, a collection of historic string instruments that survived the Holocaust. This initiative aims to celebrate the stories of resilience and cultural heritage while encouraging community participation through concerts, exhibitions, and lectures. Among the highlights is a concert by the UK Symphony Orchestra featuring various renowned composers. The events promise to provide a profound insight into the legacy of these instruments and their impact on art and healing.
Discover the Resilience of the Violins of Hope in Lexington KY
Experience a unique convergence of history and artistry at the University of Kentucky
Lexington, Kentucky – The University of Kentucky (UK) is set to host an enlightening series of events from February 10 to 14, 2026, focusing on the Violins of Hope, a remarkable collection of over 70 historic string instruments that survived the Holocaust. Each instrument, lovingly restored by Israeli violin makers Amnon and Avshalom Weinstein, bears the legacy of Jewish musicians who played in the most trying circumstances of war, embodying stories of resilience and hope amidst adversity. This initiative not only serves as a testament to the power of art in healing but also encourages civic engagement through cultural remembrance.
The centerpiece of this week-long event is a concert by the UK Symphony Orchestra, scheduled for Saturday, February 14, at 8 p.m. in the Singletary Concert Hall. The concert will feature an intriguing mix of pieces—Jennifer Higdon’s “blue cathedral,” Pavel Haas’s “Scherzo triste,” Viktor Ullmann’s “Overture to The Broken Jug,” John Williams’s “Theme from Schindler’s List,” and Gustav Mahler’s Symphony No. 4. The generosity of the community is echoed in the accessible ticket prices of $20 for adults and $10 for students, allowing a larger audience to partake in this poignant tribute.
Violins of Hope Exhibition
During this week, visitors will have the unique opportunity to view the Violins of Hope collection in a public exhibition at the Singletary Center for the Arts. This exhibition aims to connect viewers with the compelling narratives of survival embedded in each instrument. As these violins take center stage in Lexington, they remind us of the cultural heritage that community events can preserve without excessive oversight. Such initiatives can foster a sense of belonging and promote individual participation in local culture.
Lecture with Avshalom Weinstein
On Wednesday, February 11, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., a free lecture will be presented by Avshalom Weinstein in the Singletary Recital Hall. This event promises to provide valuable insights into the history and significance of the Violins of Hope, encouraging attendees to engage with the stories behind these significant artifacts. The initiative exemplifies how local organizations can play a vital role in broadening community awareness without the restrictive nature of bureaucracy.
Community Impact and Engagement
The Violins of Hope project, a groundbreaking effort initiated by the Weinstein family, highlights the importance of individual initiative in uplifting communal narratives. Since its inception in 2006, the collection has traveled to numerous cities worldwide, including Berlin, Cleveland, and nearby Louisville, Kentucky, showcasing the universal appeal of these stories. By bringing this exhibition to Lexington, the University of Kentucky is effectively enhancing local engagement in significant historical dialogues, prompting residents to reflect on the lessons of the past and its relevance today.
Get Involved
We encourage the Lexington community to partake in these events that celebrate resilience through artistry. Supporting local culture fosters personal achievements and nurtures community pride. It is an opportunity to remember, reflect, and advocate for a future that values history while celebrating local arts. Your involvement helps keep the spirit of hope alive, ensuring that the valuable lessons learned from the past continue to resonate.
Conclusion
The upcoming Violins of Hope events provide a rich tapestry of history, culture, and community engagement. As Lexington embraces this opportunity, let us celebrate the stories of resilience and hope these instruments represent. Be part of a cause that brings history to life through the arts and supports local initiatives that lift up our community.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the Violins of Hope?
The Violins of Hope are a collection of over 70 historic string instruments that survived the Holocaust. These instruments were played by Jewish musicians in ghettos and concentration camps, symbolizing resilience and hope.
When is the UK Symphony Orchestra concert?
The concert is scheduled for Saturday, February 14, 2026, at 8 p.m. in the Singletary Concert Hall at the University of Kentucky.
How can I attend the lecture by Avshalom Weinstein?
The lecture titled “Violins of Hope” will be held on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. in the Singletary Recital Hall. This event is free and open to the public.
Where can I view the Violins of Hope exhibition?
The Violins of Hope will be on display at the Singletary Center for the Arts throughout the week of February 10 to 14, 2026. The exhibition is open to the public and provides an opportunity to view these historic instruments up close.
How can I purchase tickets for the concert?
Tickets for the UK Symphony Orchestra concert are available for purchase. Prices are $20 for adults and $10 for students. For more information and to buy tickets, visit the UK College of Fine Arts website.
Key Features of the Violins of Hope Events at the University of Kentucky
| Event | Date and Time | Location | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lecture by Avshalom Weinstein | February 11, 2026, 5:30–6:30 p.m. | Singletary Recital Hall | Free lecture on the history and significance of the Violins of Hope collection. |
| UK Symphony Orchestra Concert | February 14, 2026, 8 p.m. | Singletary Concert Hall | Performance featuring works by Higdon, Haas, Ullmann, Williams, and Mahler. Tickets: $20 adults, $10 students. |
| Violins of Hope Exhibition | February 10–14, 2026 | Singletary Center for the Arts | Public exhibition of historic instruments from the Violins of Hope collection. |
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