Brentwood social studies and orchestra students attended a powerful educational program at Molloy University on March 12, where history and music intersected through the internationally recognized “Violins of Hope” collection.

The event featured restored violins that survived the Holocaust, offering students a rare opportunity to connect with history through tangible artifacts and live performance. Many of the instruments were once owned and played by Jewish musicians during World War II, and today serve as symbols of resilience, remembrance and hope.

During the program, students engaged with the stories behind the instruments through a combination of music, photographs and primary sources. One violin in particular, dating back to the 1700s, was highlighted for its remarkable journey through centuries of history, including its survival during the Holocaust. The instrument was played live, allowing students to hear the voice of history in a deeply personal way.

The experience encouraged students to explore themes of empathy, survival and human resilience through both historical study and artistic expression. By connecting their classroom learning to real-world artifacts, students gained a deeper and more authentic understanding of the impact of the Holocaust.