The West-Eastern Divan Orchestra

The West-Eastern Divan Orchestra is the love-child of conductor Daniel Barenboim and the late Palestinian scholar Edward Said. Created ten years ago, it is made up of young musicians from Israel and Arab countries throughout the Middle East. The founders shared the belief that music can provide a pathway to understanding in the region through the ongoing rapport created by young musicians playing, traveling and working together. These opportunities provide a model dialogue for detente. Based in Seville, the orchestra specializes in symphonic works and also opera and chamber music. Under Barenboim’s skilled baton, they perform throughout Europe, Russia, Turkey and the U.S., making wonderful music wherever they go.