Review of A Holocaust Journey: Uncle Bram’s Violin

Being the coordinator of A Holocaust Journey: Uncle Bram’s Violin has been a deeply moving and powerful experience, and it has been an honor to bring this program to branches across the Palm Beach County Library System. Presented by David Groen, the program masterfully weaves together personal history, music, and remembrance to tell the story of his uncle — a young Jewish violinist whose life was tragically cut short during the Holocaust.

What sets this presentation apart is its deeply personal and human focus. Rather than relying on statistics or distant historical summaries, David centers on Bram Rodrigues-Lopes, his violin, and the incredible journey that violin took before being reunited with the family in 2019. This intimate storytelling makes history tangible, relatable, and emotionally resonant for every audience.

The use of family photographs, historical images, and — most poignantly — a live violin performance by Dr. Steffen Zeichner creates an immersive and heartfelt experience. Hearing the violin that once belonged to Bram is profoundly moving, serving as a powerful symbol of loss, memory, and enduring hope.

While the program does not shy away from the horrors endured by Bram and millions of others, it also highlights resilience, remembrance, and the redemptive power of art and memory. The story of the violin’s return speaks not only to personal survival but to the survival of memory itself. David’s dedication to honoring Bram’s legacy is evident throughout the presentation. His commitment to community education and passion for preserving history make this program especially meaningful within our local libraries.

By placing a human face — a young boy, a family, a violin — at the center of this history, the program fosters empathy, understanding, and a renewed commitment to remembrance. For many attendees, it becomes far more than a history lesson; it becomes a call to reflect, to remember, and to stand firmly against hate.

This program resonates deeply with adults and older teens interested in history, music, Jewish heritage, or human rights, yet its emotional clarity and personal scope make it accessible to anyone. It touches all who value stories of memory, redemption, and the power of art — offering an experience that is both educational and profoundly human.

Karen Garcia- Multicultural Librarian- Main Branch