The project titled “Violins of Hope” will soon arrive in Albania. It is a grand initiative featuring musical instruments that survived the concentration camps of the Holocaust.

Tourism, Culture, and Sports Minister Blendi Gonxhja announced the news. He also welcomed maestro Shlomo Mintz, one of the most prominent figures in classical music worldwide. Mintz is an Israeli violinist and conductor of Russian origin. He regularly performs with orchestras and conductors on international stages. Moreover, he participates in recitals and chamber music concerts around the world.

Mintz began his career as a child. He made his first stage appearance at six and played as a soloist with the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra at eleven. Shortly after, maestro Zubin Mehta urgently called him to perform Paganini’s Violin Concerto No. 1, Op. 6, when Itzhak Perlman fell ill. At sixteen, Mintz debuted at Carnegie Hall with the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra.

The “Violins of Hope” project that Mintz will bring to Tirana has already been presented in Paris, Jerusalem, Sion, Madrid, Charlotte, Monte Carlo, Rome, Cleveland, Mexico City, Sarasota, and Buenos Aires. In addition, the project includes an exhibition with over 40 instruments and their individual stories.

During his visit, Mintz and Minister Gonxhja discussed joint initiatives to enrich Albania’s cultural life. They also explored programs to support young musicians. These include masterclasses and educational activities that reflect Mintz’s extensive experience as a founder, artistic director, and jury member in major international competitions.