Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra honors voices from the past with Violins of Hope

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- The sound of these violins once heard during the Holocaust now fill the Bradley Symphony Center in Milwaukee. 

Many of the violins were once owned and played by Jewish prisoners and others targeted by Nazis in World War II (WWII). 

Sunday, Nov. 16, the violins were played by the Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra (MYSO). MYSO partnered with 'Violins of Hope Wisconsin' to honor the voices of the past, enlighten the present and inspire the future. 

For students, it's an emotional experience and an honor to be playing the violins. 

"I've really got a new perspective about how music can affect people," said MYSO Vera LeFort. "Be a form of resistance how it can bring people together." 

LeFort played Violet's violin. She told CBS 58 Violet grew up in France and was deported to Auschwitz, the largest Nazi concentration camp. 

Violet joined the women's orchestra and played the violin when she was sick and had no clothing. LeFort said the violin saved Violet's life and brought a sense of community to her. 

The performance is part of a five-month residency in the state. To learn more information, visit their website here.