Violins of Hope: Strings of Jewish Resistance and Resilience

Jewish Museum Milwaukee is proud to present Violins of Hope: Strings of Jewish Resistance and Resilience, an extraordinary exhibition built around the internationally renowned Violins of Hope project. At its heart is a moving collection of 24 restored string instruments once played by Jewish musicians before and during the Holocaust. Each violin carries a deeply personal story, bearing witness to the atrocities of one of history’s darkest chapters, honoring those who faced unimaginable adversity, and paying tribute to the resilience of individuals who turned to music as a source of solace, survival, and defiance.

These instruments, lovingly restored to concert quality, stand not only as historical artifacts but also as living voices, telling stories that words alone cannot capture. Through their melodies, they bridge past and present, reminding us of the enduring power of art to preserve identity, resist oppression, and nurture hope.

Violins of Hope invites visitors to experience these violins up close, to learn about the musicians who once played them, and to engage in broader conversations about the lessons of the Holocaust, the persistence of antisemitism, and the necessity of cultural memory. This exhibition is both a memorial and a celebration—of Jewish culture, contributions, identity, and the unbreakable human spirit. Join us as we honor the courage of those who would not be silenced, and celebrate music as a force for healing, remembrance, and unity across generations.