Teaching the historical events of the Holocaust is especially important during current times. Recent surveys have shown an alarming lack of knowledge about the Holocaust (Claims Conference, 2018), suggesting a lack of understanding that what begins as delegitimizing and dehumanizing can lead to the atrocities of genocide on a most horrific scale. A musical perspective is an important approach among the many ways to teach the Holocaust. The surviving music from the Holocaust is a testimony to the experiences and legacies of those whose lives were tragically cut short.
Workshop participants will explore the diverse roles that music played during the years 1933–1945. We will discuss how the Nazi regime utilized music as a means for censorship and discrimination; We will explore a wealth of music-making in Ghettos and concentration camps (composition, performance, street songs, music production, administration, women-artists, and opera). Through guided listening, participants will learn to evaluate specific musical compositions as documents, stories told in sound, and testimonies. Participants will discuss music-making as means of survival, resistance, and healing. Participants will also explore testimony in painting and drawing by prisoners in various ghettos and concentration camps.
As part of this workshop, a music performance will take place on Wednesday, May 11 at 7:30pm.
Faculty and Graduate students are welcome to apply for the workshop. Prior knowledge of the Holocaust and of Holocaust studies is not expected. However, a commitment to engage in every aspect of the discussion is a requirement.
The Jewish Studies Program at Ball State University, funded by the Benjamin and Bessie Zeigler Fund, was established to provide the university and community with an understanding and an appreciation for Jewish history, Jewish culture, and the Jewish faith. Specific initiatives include faculty development and course offerings in Jewish Studies; library acquisitions for the Bracken Library’s Judaica Collection; and support for programs, lectures, and cultural events.
Each participant in the full week's workshop will receive $300 + required books and/or Kindle downloads. Participants are limited to TEN (regular or contract faculty or teaching graduate students). Early application is strongly advised.
Completed applications must be received by Monday, April 11, 2022. Participants will be notified of their acceptance by Monday, April 18. The application form can be accessed here: https://forms.gle/cHAUGgyimqU8FhD97
Questions and applications should be directed to Dr. Robert Phillips, Director of Jewish Studies, rfphillips@bsu.edu.