The West-Eastern Divan Ensemble, led by violinist Michael Barenboim, draws upon select players of the acclaimed West-Eastern Divan Orchestra. Founded in 1999, the origins of the orchestra lie in the conversations between its founders, Edward Said and pianist Daniel Barenboim. Over the course of their great friendship, the Palestinian scholar and Israeli pianist discussed ideas on music, culture and humanity. In their exchanges, they realized the urgent need for an alternative way to address the Israeli-Palestinian conflict—this evolved into the West-Eastern Divan Orchestra, a group comprised of Arab and Israeli musicians defying fierce political divides in the Middle East and globally.
This spring, experience the power of music to heal and unite at Bing Concert Hall.