The Kelvin Grove Wind Orchestra had performed many times, but never had music carried the profound weight they felt when invited to perform at a special memorial event in KrakĂłw, Poland. Their repertoire included the hauntingly beautiful "Theme from Schindler's List," which they would play at the former enamelware factory owned by Oskar Schindler himself.
On arrival, conductor Dale led the musicians quietly through the corridors of history preserved within Schindler’s factory. Each exhibit whispered of courage, sacrifice, and humanity amidst unimaginable darkness. The musicians felt an unexpected bond forming with the stories hidden within the walls.
As the evening approached, the event organizers guided KGWO into the factory's courtyard, now softly illuminated by lanterns. Amidst the hushed audience sat survivors, their families, and descendants—each carrying personal stories linked to this sacred place.
Just before Dale raised her baton, an elderly woman named Miriam approached quietly. She gently touched Dale’s arm and whispered softly, "Could I play with you?" Dale looked up, surprised yet deeply moved, and nodded warmly.
Miriam carefully lifted a violin, its worn wood gleaming softly. As KGWO began to play the tender opening notes, Miriam joined them. Her violin resonated with deep, emotional clarity, intertwining seamlessly with the orchestra.
The courtyard filled with an extraordinary sense of unity and remembrance as Miriam played. KGWO musicians felt an indescribable connection—not merely to the notes, but to the living history breathing through Miriam's music. Tears flowed openly in the audience, each note honoring the lives saved by Schindler’s courageous actions.
After the final, poignant notes faded gently into silence, Miriam smiled tearfully at Dale, whispering, "This violin belonged to my mother, saved by Oskar Schindler himself. Tonight, it played again for her."
Dale was deeply moved as respectful applause filled the courtyard. For KGWO, the evening had transformed into something profoundly meaningful—not merely a performance, but a tribute that echoed deeply through time, honoring compassion, bravery, and the enduring power of music.
Join us on November 30th at 2pm as we fill the Old Museum concert hall with story-telling magic. Tickets via www.kgwo.org.au or click on the yellow button below. | 
