Long Island Concert Orchestra Delivers Heartfelt Symphony of Hope

The Long Island Concert Orchestra’s “Symphony of Hope” benefit concert took center stage at the Tilles Center's Krasnoff Theater on May 2nd at 8 pm. Organized by the Long Island Concert Orchestra and the Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center of Nassau County, the event not only captivated audiences with the expressive power of orchestral music but also served as a beacon of support for two indispensable organizations: The Jerusalem Academy of Music and Dance (JAMD) and the Holocaust Memorial Tolerance Center (HMTC).

The evening commenced with a brilliant live-streamed performance by students at JAMD, “Madrasa - Saafni '' and was followed by the stirring overture “Adriatica,” composed by David Winkler, Executive Director and Composer in Residence of the Long Island Concert Orchestra. Winkler, integral to the committee's efforts in bringing the concert to fruition, highlighted the transformative power of community involvement, remarking, “Amidst this remarkable event, our community seized a wonderful opportunity to unite and rally behind these important organizations. Attending the Symphony of Hope Concert not only offered an unforgettable evening but also served as a tangible expression of solidarity with JAMD and HMTC's enduring endeavors.”

During the initial planning stages for "Symphony of Hope," the vision was to have Prof. Michael Klinghoffer, President of the Jerusalem Academy of Music and Dance, join the event in person at the Tilles Center. In addition, two musicians from the academy's music program, one Jewish and one Arab, were intended to accompany him, thus emphasizing the message of unity and hope through their collaborative performance. However, due to escalating tensions and safety concerns arising from the Israel-Hamas War, organizers had to make several changes to the program for the safety of the students and artists, ultimately resulting in their not being able to participate in person.

Bernie Furshpan, a board member of HMTC and member of the concert committee, expressed sadness over the situation, stating, "While we deeply regret that the students could not join us in person, ensuring their safety is paramount. Our determination to support the cause of unity and hope remains unwavering, and we are committed to continuing our efforts in promoting tolerance and understanding through the power of music."

Prof. Michael Klinghoffer, President of JAMD, expressed his disappointment at not being able to attend the concert live, stating, "As much as I wanted to be present at the concert, circumstances beyond our control prevented it. The cancellation of flights and safety concerns expressed by our students made it clear that participating in person would not be feasible. However, this situation only punctuates the importance of our school's work in fostering unity and understanding through music and dance. We are more determined than ever to continue our mission and promote the uniting and healing power of the arts."

In a prerecorded video message from Klinghoffer that was shared at the concert, he expressed his appreciation, stating, "We extend our deepest gratitude to the Long Island Concert Orchestra and the Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center for their unwavering support and dedication to our cause. As seen in the video showing the MADRASA ensemble, diversity is our way of life in the deepest, widest, and most meaningful sense of the word. Their collaboration in bringing forth the Symphony of Hope benefit concert has not only touched the hearts of all who attended but has also provided invaluable assistance to both the Jerusalem Academy of Music and Dance and the Holocaust Memorial Tolerance Center. Through the power of music and unity, we have witnessed the transformative impact of compassion and solidarity in the midst of conflict. We thank all for standing with us in our mission to promote tolerance, understanding, and the healing power of the arts"

The concert was conducted under the baton of Enrico Fagone, Music Director and Artistic Director of the Long Island Concert Orchestra. Maestro Fagone remarked, "Bringing the Symphony of Hope to life through music has been a deeply meaningful experience. It's a privilege to use our platform to support these important causes and unite our community.”

In addition to artists and works already noted, the concert included Schumann’s Piano Concerto in A minor, Op. 54, with special guest pianist Alessandro Mazzamuto, and Mendelssohn’s Symphony No. 4 in A Major, Op. 90, 'Italian'.

Alessandro Mazzamuto expressed his appreciation, stating, "Participating in this concert was truly inspiring, and I'm thankful for the invitation and the chance to contribute to such a meaningful cause through music.”

"I was deeply touched by the performance," expressed Jolanta Zamecka, HMTC Board Member and Event Committee Member. "It was not only a great success, but more importantly, an opportunity to bring together individuals from all walks of life for an evening filled with unity, music, and hope, even amid this conflict.”

For those who were unable to attend the concert but wish to contribute to this important cause, donations, and sponsorship are still being accepted at hmtcli.org/events/lico. Organizers emphasize that support at any level is deeply appreciated.