Violins of hope is a private collection of violins, violas, and cellos all collected since the end of World War II. Many of the instruments belonged to Jews before and during the war. Many were donated or bought by survivors; some arrived through family members and many carry Stars of David as a decoration. These violins received a loving make over by Israeli violin makers Amnon and Avshalom Weinstein, father and son. They work in Tel Aviv and Istanbul and own the collection. 

The Jewish Federation of Peoria is pleased and honored to present a selection of 10 of these violins at the Peoria Riverfront Museum during August and early September. 

These violins are being brought to us by the generosity of the JCC Chicago. They secured this exhibit and are graciously sharing it with other Jewish communities throughout Illinois.