West-Eastern Divan Ensemble with Michael Barenboim, music director and violin

Twenty years ago, the famous Israeli conductor and pianist Daniel Barenboim and the Palestinian-American writer and academic Edward Said organized an orchestra that brought together aspiring Israeli and Arab musicians who otherwise would have had little chance to meet, let alone perform with each other. Comprising Arab and Israeli musicians, the group defied the fierce political divide in the Middle East and globally. The West-Eastern Divan Ensemble brings the highly praised artistry of the large orchestra into an intimate chamber music format, with Michael Barenboim, the founder’s son, serving as music director and featured violinist. Through their work, they promote intercultural dialogue and coexistence.