Carnegie Hall

Knowledge Is the Beginning tells the story of the West-Eastern Divan Orchestra, where Arab and Jewish young people sit side by side. It illustrates how prejudices are surmounted during rehearsals, concerts, and post-performance celebrations. It also demonstrates what problems arise and how music can help people of different views find common ground. For Daniel Barenboim, the ensemble’s founder, the West-Eastern Divan Orchestra is a metaphor for what is possible in the Middle East.

Available through May 31, 2021.