PERSONAL NOTE

Personal Note is a new concert series curated by students of the Barenboim-Said Akademie. The series was conceived by the participants of the Akademie’s Concert Curation course, a program designed to empower young musicians to think beyond performance. In today’s rapidly evolving cultural landscape, classical music faces the challenge of remaining relevant while maintaining its traditions. Through this course, led by Prof. Yael Kareth, students have the opportunity to delve into the essence of the concert experience, exploring its social, sensory, and cultural dimensions. By asking questions such as, “What story does this music tell?” and “Who is it for?”, the course encourages students to reimagine the concert model and craft events that are meaningful, engaging, and accessible. The culmination of their work is Personal Note, a series of intimate performances that reflect their creativity and intellectual exploration, as well as their unique musicianship.

Concert I: Homeland

The first concert of the series, “Homeland,” offers a deeply personal and culturally diverse program that reflects the unique backgrounds of the students. Featuring works by composers connected to the performers’ homelands or inspired by themes of memory, nostalgia, and roots, the evening celebrates the profound connection between music and identity. Pieces such as Prokofiev’s Overture on Hebrew Themes, Bartók’s Romanian Folk Dances, and Bloch’s Prayer are interwoven with contemporary works including Kian Soltani’s Persian Fire Dance and arrangements of traditional songs. This program is not merely a celebration of diversity—it is a musical expression of the cultural heritage, personal and collective.