Violins of Hope
A Legacy of Resilience
The Minnesota JCC was honored to host Violins of Hope, a world-renowned collection of 70 instruments that survived the Holocaust and told the stories of those who played, hid, carried, and saved them. Bringing together more than 50 regional partners, the JCC presented this residency through concerts, exhibitions, film screenings, book talks, family programs, and worship services across Minnesota.
Throughout the residency, visitors encountered these instruments not simply as objects of art, but as powerful witnesses to history. By sharing their stories and placing them into the hands of musicians, the residency helped ensure this extraordinary legacy remains a vital part of our collective memory. Together, thousands of participants stood in the presence of this history, heard these remarkable stories, and experienced the music that continues to inspire remembrance, resilience, and hope.
About Violins of Hope
Israeli violinmakers, Amnon (z”l) and Avshalom Weinstein, have spent the last 20 years collecting and repairing 70 Holocaust-era violins and other stringed instruments from around the world, some with the Star of David on the back and others with names and dates inscribed within the instrument. Together, they have lovingly located and restored the violins to reclaim their lost heritage, give voice to the victims, and reinforce essential messages of hope, harmony, and humanity.
Stories of Resilience, Carried Through Music
Discover the stories of the 70 instruments that made up the Minnesota Violins of Hope collection during their time in our community. Each instrument carries a powerful story of resilience, loss, survival, and hope. Explore their histories, meet the people who safeguarded them, and discover how their stories continue to inspire remembrance and connection across generations.
Family Legacy Sponsor
The Eiger & Zaidenweber Families
Chazak Sponsors
Martin & Esther Capp Family Fund of the St. Paul Foundation
Kris & John MacDonald
The PBJ Memorial Fund
Chai Sponsors
Wendy & Steve Baldinger
Jewish Community Relations Council of Minnesota and the Dakotas
Minneapolis Jewish Federation
Marvin Pertzik
RBC Wealth Management
Temple Israel
Waldman, Belzer, and Roether Families
Kehilah Sponsors
Davidman Family
Bruce Goodman
Lapidus, Weinstein, and Witzke Families
Lerner Publishing Group and Kar-Ben Publishing
Rosanne Nathanson
St. Paul Jewish Federation
Howard B. & Ruth F. Brin Jewish Arts Endowment Fund
Christine Zuck