Jewish-Arab Program
The Jewish-Arab program consists of two ensembles that aim to bring together children from East & West Jerusalem, led by Jewish and Arab teachers. Through this joint program, the children explore the rich musical traditions shared by Jews, Muslims, and Christians, playing various instruments such as kanun, percussion, nai (flute), and violin.
The program seeks to foster a natural setting for Jewish and Arab children to pursue a common goal of playing well and playing together. By providing shared experiences and learning opportunities, the program aims to bridge the divide between different communities in Jerusalem and foster trust and tolerance.
Despite the social and linguistic distance between the eastern and western parts of the city, the program recognizes the significant cultural and musical content shared by both populations. By utilizing the universal language of music, the program aims to facilitate communication and cooperation among the children, paving the way for genuine understanding and harmony.
The Jewish-Arab String Orchestra
The Jewish-Arab Orchestra, under the musical direction and leadership of Robert Canetti, is a string orchestra currently operating at the East Jerusalem branch of the Conservatory.
Comprised of a diverse group of 20 Arab and Jewish students, the orchestra participates annually in the Jerusalem Seasons Festival, as well as in festivals hosted by the YMCA, Christmas concerts and performances in churches and halls throughout Jerusalem. Every summer, a music camp is held at Abraham House on the Mount of Olives, where orchestra members come together to advance their musical skills and foster social connections through diverse activities. The experience culminates in a joyous final concert.
Jewish-Arab Andalusian Ensemble
In the heart of Jerusalem, amidst a divided reality, the Conservatory established a groundbreaking Jewish-Arab ensemble that seeks to revive a shared cultural heritage of oriental music.
Guided by both Jewish and Arab teachers, the ensemble aims to bridge the gap between Jewish and Arab students, families, and communities who, although geographically close, have remained disconnected. Through separate group work, joint rehearsals, and festive performances, the program fosters meaningful connections and cultural exchange.
This initiative not only focuses on providing excellent musical education but also recognizes the cultural, political, and social context in which it operates, fostering an authentic encounter and cultivating a shared cultural legacy rooted in a common tradition.
Jewish-Arab Program Director
Gilad Vaknin
Jewish-Arab Andalusian Ensemble
Gilad is an active musician, performer, creator and teacher. He began to study and delve into Andalusian music with Nino Biton. He graduated with a bachelor's degree in composition at the Jerusalem Academy of Music and a graduate of the Mendel Program for Leadership in Jewish Culture. Together with his wife and mother of his three children, the singer Inbal Jamshid, he founded the ensemble "Acut" which performs contemporary original compositions, on the border between East and West, to songs by contemporary poets.
נגה בר עוז
אנסמבל אנדלוסי יהודי-ערבי
רוברט קאנטי
תזמורת כלי מיתר יהודית-ערבית
גלעד ואקנין
מורה לעוד
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