The West-Eastern Divan Orchestra at the Proms 2012

Daniel Barenboim is not only a phenomenal musician, he is also an international humanitarian in both word and deed. He helped create an orchestra which put young Israeli musicians alongside Arab players. Barenboim's idea was that young musicians could surely work together successfully and perhaps that would be an example to their elders who have so often failed to not only achieve peace but to even respect each other.

The West-Eastern Divan Orchestra is a fine ensemble and makes regular international appearances. At the Proms in London this summer Barenboim and the orchestra have been performing all nine Beethoven symphonies. Here they are beginning the Eroica.

Paul E. Robinson