The Music Man of Terezin: The Story of Rafael Schaechter
As a former prisoner in Terezin, I personally am familiar with the living conditions there. I therefore appreciate that both Edgar Krasa and Susie Davidson have chosen to emphasize the positive sides instead of the horror associated with most camps, and continually point out how despite these difficult conditions, somehow the amazing human spirit prevailed. --Michael Gruenbaum, Brookline, Mass. The music written and performed in Terezin is testament to the incredible resilience of the creative spirit and the determination for the need to create art in the face of evil. To preserve the voices of the lost artists, the Terezin Music Foundation performs and records this music internationally, and we commission young artists to compose music that honors the Terezin legacy. The voices and the art cannot be silenced. Today, the top musicians of the world, who include Dawn Upshaw, Garrick Ohlsson, Andre Previn, and many others, join TMF to fulfill this mission, so powerfully inspired by Rafael Schaechter and Edgar Krasa. Theirs is a story that should always be told and remembered. --Mark Ludwig Director, Terezin Music Foundation During the Holocaust music was a bold form of resistance, reflective of the power of individuals to triumph over brutality. We incorporate music into our programming and educational opportunities to ensure that this beauty is represented alongside the horrors. When we hear these songs or read Holocaust memoirs, it reminds the viewers of our obligation to listen, remember, and reflect. Each time we hear a survivor's testimony and listen to musical performances, we are strengthening the future. Edgar Krasa s reminisces of Rafael Schaechter are an important resource for schools and families, tying together the power of music with the power of storytelling. Elyse Rast Senior Program Director, Holocaust Education Jewish Community Relations Council of Greater Boston / New England Holocaust Memorial  The legacy of Rafael Schaechter, and the hope, courage and inspiration he provided for prisoners in Terezin during their darkest hours of imprisonment cannot be underestimated. Many survivors speak of how Raffi saved their lives through this beautiful music and sustained their souls during their imprisonment at Terezin. And Edgar Krasa, a roommate of Schaechter s at Terezin and a member of the Verdi chorus, knows this better than anyone. Davidson s presentation of Mr. Krasa s personal recollections of Schaechter s leadership, bravery and great musical talent remind all of us of the power of the arts in feeding and sustaining the human spirit. The Music Man of Terezin: The Story of Rafael Schaechter as remembered by Edgar Krasa is a testimony to the memory of a gifted, inspirational and courageous man. --Murry Sidlin President and Founder, The Defiant Requiem FoundationThe music written and performed in Terezi­n is testament to the incredible resilience of the creative spirit and the determination the need to create art in the face of evil. To preserve the voices of the lost artists, the Terezin Music Foundation performs and records this music internationally, and we commission young artists to compose music that honors the TerezÃin legacy. The voices and the art cannot be silenced. Today, the top musicians of the world Dawn Upshaw, Garrick Ohlsson, Andre Previn, and many others join TMF to fulfill this mission, so powerfully inspired by Rafael Schaechter and Edgar Krasa. Theirs is a story that should always be told and remembered. --Mark Ludwig Director, Terezin Music FoundationDuring the Holocaust music was a bold form of resistance, reflective of the power of individuals to triumph over brutality. We incorporate music into our programming and educational opportunities to ensure that this beauty is represented alongside the horrors. When we hear these songs or read Holocaust memoirs, it reminds the viewers of our obligation to listen, remember, and reflect. Each time we hear a survivor s testimony and listen to musical performances, we are strengthening the future. Edgar Krasa s reminisces of Rafael Schaechter are an important resource for schools and families, tying together the power of music with the power of storytelling. Elyse Rast Senior Program Director, Holocaust Education Jewish Community Relations Council of Greater Boston / New England Holocaust Memorial The legacy of Rafael Schaechter, and the hope, courage and inspiration he provided for prisoners in Terezin during their darkest hours of imprisonment cannot be underestimated. Many survivors speak of how Raffi saved their lives through this beautiful music and sustained their souls during their imprisonment at Terezin. And Edgar Krasa, a roommate of Schaechter s at Terezin and a member of the Verdi chorus, knows this better than anyone. Davidson s presentation of Mr. Krasa s personal recollections of Schaechter s leadership, bravery and great musical talent remind all of us of the power of the arts in feeding and sustaining the human spirit. The Music Man of Terezin: The Story of Rafael Schaechter as remembered by Edgar Krasa is a testimony to the memory of a gifted, inspirational and courageous man. --Murry Sidlin President and Founder, The Defiant Requiem Foundation