West-Eastern Divan Ensemble

Zipper Hall

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Arab and Israeli musicians play the treasures of classical music while defying fierce political divides. The ensemble brings the highly praised artistry of the West-Eastern Divan Orchestra into an intimate chamber music format, led by the orchestra’s concertmaster Michael Barenboim. The West-Eastern Divan Ensemble gives the final performance of its US tour with a program of chamber music works by Dvořák, Hindemith, Ravel, and Enescu. 

The origins of the orchestra lie in the conversations between its founders, Edward Said and Daniel Barenboim. Over the course of their great friendship, the Palestinian author/scholar and Israeli conductor/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. The opportunity to do this came when Barenboim and Said initiated the first workshop using their experience as a model. This evolved into the West-Eastern Divan Orchestra. Through its work and existence, the orchestra demonstrates that bridges can be built to encourage people to listen to the narrative of the other.

Patrons are encouraged to be fully vaccinated or obtain a negative COVID-19 test, but it is not required. See the full list of safety protocols for more information.