This unforgettable true story of memory, legacy, and music spans generations and continents.
In “Bram’s Violin,” David Groen shares the remarkable journey of his uncle, Bram Rodrigues, a young Jewish man from Amsterdam who was murdered in Auschwitz in 1943. Before his deportation, Bram entrusted his cherished violin to a close friend. That friend’s family safeguarded the instrument for decades — until, more than 75 years later, it found its way back to Bram’s surviving family.
This poignant lecture traces Bram’s early life, the bonds of deep friendship, and how a book written by David Groen played a central role in the violin’s eventual return. It’s a powerful narrative of resilience, remembrance, and the lasting echoes of one man’s life.
Optional Add-On: To deepen the emotional impact, David can be joined by a professional violinist who plays Bram’s actual violin during the presentation. Musical selections include Jerusalem of Gold, the theme from Schindler’s List, and Sabbath Prayer from Fiddler on the Roof.