West-Eastern Divan Orchestra
Bringing together young musicians from Israel, Palestine, and other Middle Eastern countries to foster cultural exchange and promote peaceful coexistence.
Initiator(s)
Daniel Barenboim and Edward Said
Description
Daniel Barenboim and Edward Said created a workshop for young musicians from Israel, Palestine and various Arab countries of the Middle East seeking to enable intercultural dialogue and to promote the experience of collaborating on common interests. Together with a group of Spanish musicians they met each summer in Seville for a workshop with rehearsals, lectures and discussions, followed by an international concert tour. The only political aspect prevailing the West-Eastern Divan’s work is the conviction that there will never be a military solution to the Middle East conflict, and that the destinies of the Israelis and Palestinians are inextricably linked.
Goals
Prove how music can break down barriers previously considered insurmountable. Through its work and existence the West-Eastern Divan Orchestra demonstrates that bridges can be built to encourage people to listen to one another.
Beneficial outcomes
Daniel Barenboim also initiated a project for music education in the Palestinian territories which includes the foundation of a music kindergarten as well as a Palestinian youth orchestra.
Location
Germany, United States, Spain, Israel and Palestine
Users
Musicians of the Staatskapelle Berlin
Maintained by
Kunstfest Weimar
Duration
1999 - ongoing
Category
Scientific
Pedagogical
Politics
Urban Development
Economy
Environment
Social
