Violins of Hope returns to Livermore with concerts and exhibitions

The internationally acclaimed Violins of Hope initiative will return to Livermore this autumn, presenting a deeply moving educational exhibition and live symphonic concert series at the Bankhead Theater from October 14 through November 5. The profound cultural project showcases a rare collection of historic string instruments that survived the Holocaust, meticulously restored by Israeli luthiers to give voice to the Jewish musicians who played them under harrowing wartime circumstances. Tri-Valley cultural leaders announced that the multi-week residency will combine public gallery exhibitions, school field trips, and master chamber performances.

The return of these sacred instruments offers East Bay residents, students, and educators a transformative historical encounter that bridges world history with musical artistry. For regional families and community members, the performances provide an inspiring testament to human dignity, cultural perseverance, and the power of art to overcome profound tragedy. Area high school and middle school music students will have the rare privilege of examining the instruments up close during dedicated educational sessions designed to foster tolerance and historical literacy.

Presented by Livermore Valley Arts in partnership with the East Bay Holocaust Education Council and the City of Livermore, the 2026 residency builds upon a remarkably successful initial showcase held in 2023. While that inaugural engagement featured twenty-four instruments, this year's focused presentation highlights fourteen distinct violins and cellos, each accompanied by rigorously documented archival narratives detailing its original owner's journey. Municipal cultural grants and private philanthropic endowments ensure that the Bankhead Theater gallery exhibition remains open to the public completely free of charge.

The commemorative programming includes an intimate evening lecture by master violin restorer Avshi Weinstein on Thursday, October 15, at the Livermore Public Library Civic Center branch on South Livermore Avenue. Mainstage concerts will take place at the Bankhead Theater, located at 2400 First Street, on Saturday, October 18, from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm, and Sunday, October 19, from 7:30 pm to 9:30 pm. The performances will feature the celebrated Take3 crossover trio, starring violinist Lindsay Deutsch, cellist Mikala Schmitz, and pianist Jason Stoll, with general admission tickets priced from $40 to $80, alongside discounted $35 military and $25 student admissions.

The visual exhibition in the Bankhead Theater lobby will remain open for public viewing Wednesday through Saturday from noon to 6:00 pm and prior to all scheduled evening curtain times through November 5. Volunteer docents will offer guided gallery walkthroughs and distribute historical curriculum booklets to attending school delegations and civic groups. Patrons seeking concert tickets, lecture registration, or group tour reservations can contact the Bankhead Theater box office at 925-373-6800 or visit the Livermore Valley Arts digital ticketing portal.