Peace by Music

Everyone listens to music. Whether it be classical, rap, hip-hop, rock, whatever. Not everyone loves the same type of music, and people have many different opinions on what is good music. Similarly, Palestinians and Israelis love their heritage and background, they may have different opinions on what side of the conflict is more valid, yet they should be able to see that they feel this way for the same reasons. Music bridges the gap between these differences to open Palestinians and Israelis to acknowledge different views, but same goals. 


 For Daniel Barenboim to come up with a way to parallel these two by starting the West-Eastern Divan Orchestra,I find it quite remarkable. He talks about how both groups of people will never settle the argument, yet they reach out to see that they can coexist and understand why the others see it the way they do. What better way to start an orchestra that allows both groups of people to express a love and talent of music, regardless of their past, they all play the same music as one. 

It's so important that as a people, we realize the ability to be around people that are different than us, yet still be equally as happy. Our culture today defines us by our heritage and consumer needs, and forces us to put up a fist against those that are different. Whether it be based on class, gender, race, sexual orientation,religion, or every other stereotype. We forget that these things will probably never change, there is ALWAYS going to be these differences, yet we shouldn't let that stop us from being able to coexist and live peacefully together. Be proud of who you are but also be proud of others for being who they are. 

I can't describe how please I am to see someone work through this conflict through music, our universal language. For in music, we see differences in time, instruments, melody, voice, and etc. Despite those differences in songs and tune, we value the differences and the preferences we share with it. Regardless if you like listening to Beyonce or Bach, there is an understanding between the two.