Töne gegen das Schweigen | Abschlusskonzert Demokratie-Songworkshop | Alter Schlachthof Soest

Sounds Against Silence – Music, Memory, Civil Courage

What happens when young people explore history, grapple with Jewish life and antisemitism, and transform their thoughts into their own music?

The answer to this question will be presented at the final concert of the “Sounds Against Silence” project .

Fifteen young people from Soest will work together with the Erfurt-based ensemble The String Company for one week in Erfurt and then in Soest on their own songs, lyrics, and compositions. The starting point is an in-depth exploration of the history and present-day reality of Jewish life, as well as questions about democracy, responsibility, and moral courage.

During their study trip to Erfurt, the young people will visit, among other places, the Buchenwald Memorial, the Topf & Söhne Memorial Site, and the Old Synagogue in Erfurt. Workshops on Jewish history, culture, and music; on antisemitism and democracy education; and on songwriting and composition open up new perspectives and create space for exchange and creative engagement.

Afterward, the participants continue their work in Soest. There, they explore, among other things, the Jewish history of their own region and visit Wewelsburg Castle as a site commemorating Nazi ideology and crimes. In the music workshops, these experiences give rise to original songs that take a stand and inspire reflection.

The final concert showcases the results of this special project. The young people will present their self-written songs to the public for the first time. The evening will be complemented by a concert by The String Company, who blend musical influences from klezmer, folk, world music, and modern singer-songwriter and pop elements.

“Sounds Against Silence” embodies the belief that music can build bridges—between the past and the present, between memory and responsibility, and between people of different backgrounds and experiences. The project aims to strengthen democratic values, foster empathy, and encourage young people to take a stand against antisemitism, misanthropy, and all forms of hatred.

Look forward to a moving evening of concert music, connection, and young voices advocating for remembrance, respect, tolerance, and democracy.

We cordially invite you to join us!

Performers: Marion Minkus (vocals), Lev Guzman (viola), Peter Kluge (guitar), Nils Würfel (double bass), Silke Krappel (accordion), Eric Ebeling (sound design), and the participants of the Democracy Song Workshop from Soest.

Free admission—donations are welcome.