Events

Temple Israel’s annual fundraiser, Voices: Ideas for our Time, presents an evening with violinist Itzhak Perlman in collaboration with Violins of Hope. Itzhak Perlman is one of the most celebrated violinists of our time and a 16-time Grammy Award winner. Renowned for his extraordinary artistry, warmth, and humanity, he has performed with every major orchestra and in leading concert halls around the world, captivating audiences with both his virtuosity and his joy for making music. COST: $50 (+) | General Admission

This month’s Shabbat for the Soul features instruments from the Violins of Hope collection — violins, violas, and cellos that once belonged to Jewish musicians during the Holocaust, now restored by Israeli luthiers Amnon and Avshi Weinstein. As our musicians lead us in song, these instruments bring their own layer of memory and meaning into the room. The intimate, contemplative spirit of Shabbat for the Soul feels like a natural home for music that carries this kind of history — inviting us to listen not only with our ears, but with our full hearts. FREE No registration required.

May 8 - May 31 A small selection of Violins of Hope instruments will be on display at Orchestra Hall, offering a rare opportunity to encounter these restored Holocaust-era violins up close and learn the stories they carry. Each instrument is both a work of craftsmanship and a witness—connecting us to the lives of the Jewish musicians who once played it and to the enduring power of hope through music. Display opens 90-minutes before each Orchestra Hall performance. Must have a ticket for an Orchestra Hall performance to enter. On display May 8 – 31, 2026.

Musicians from the Rochester Symphony perform on instruments from the Violins of Hope — restored Holocaust-era violins with stories as powerful as their sound — in this special program hosted by B’nai Israel Synagogue. Artistic commentary by celebrated cellist and author Janet Horvath deepens the experience, connecting the music to the lives and histories each instrument carries. COST: FREE ($18 Suggested Donation)

May 9 - June 28 A selection of Violins of Hope instruments will be on display at The Museum of Russian Art, offering a rare opportunity to encounter these restored Holocaust-era violins up close and learn the stories they carry. Each instrument is both a work of craftsmanship and a witness—connecting us to the lives of the Jewish musicians who once played it and to the enduring power of hope through music. Admission Fee: TMORA Member: Free Adult: $15 Adult (65+): $13 Student & Active Military: $5 Child (0-13): Free

The Greater Twin Cities Youth Symphonies celebrates its 54th Season at Spring Festival at Orchestra Hall, featuring GTCYS’ eleven school-year orchestras and Harmony strings instruction programs. The May 10 concert will include a special performance by the GTCYS Philharmonic featuring the Violins of Hope. This concert will be LIVESTREAMED. COST: $12–$26; (discounts available for students and seniors)