Perlman Suncoast and Jewish Federation Present 'Violins And Hope' Next Month

Master violin maker Amnon Weinstein has spent the last two decades restoring violins that were played by Jewish musicians during the Holocaust. He and his son, Avshalom Weinstein, have dedicated their lives to ensure that the restored string instruments are played by celebrated musicians throughout the world. Area residents will have an opportunity to learn more about this-and hear music performed on one of the restored violins-at an event presented by The Perlman Music Program Suncoast and The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee.

"Violins and Hope" (named after the book of the same name by author and photographer Daniel Levin) includes a violin and piano recital featuring two Perlman Music Program (PMP) alumni: Niv Ashkenazi, an acclaimed virtuoso violinist, and pianist phenom Matthew Graybil. Ashkenazi is currently the only musician with a long-term loan of one of the restored violins.

In addition, Daniel Levin, author of "Violins and Hope: From the Holocaust to Symphony Hall," will speak about his experiences with Amnon Weinstein. The event, part of the Jewish Federation's "People of the Book" series and season-long "Israel at 75" celebration, is Wednesday, November 16, 7 p.m., at Michael's On East, 1212 S. East St., Sarasota.

Tickets are $75 and include a dessert reception and book signing. Tickets and books may be purchased at https://www.pmpsuncoast.org/violins-and-hope.