The spiritual formation of an artist is impossible without a creative environment. This is indivisible from the specific people who set a great example, who direct the artist, enrich the artist spiritually, and support and encourage the artist. That sort of environment is exactly what existed in Vilnius in the early 20th century, giving rise to wonderful musicians including Jascha Heifetz, the Schneider brothers, the Reizenberg sisters, the great Hofmekler family and others.

Some left Lithuania and made incredible careers, others remained and became known in their homeland. Their lives were different, but their legacy is very clear. Let’s remember them, let’s enjoy their works. We will discover a world we didn’t know which was hidden from us for almost a century.

During the event we will learn about the lives of these renowned musicians and their works will be presented.

Dear friends of the Community,

The Lithuanian Jewish Community is pleased to invite you to a lecture by professor Leonidas Melnikas in Lithuanian called “Forgotten Names: The Symbol of Lithuania in Works by Musicians Scattered around the World.” The audience will learn about the lives of famous musicians who began their musical careers in Vilnius and will have the opportunity to enjoy their works.

The event will take place at 6:00 P.M. on July 21 in the White Hall and at the Bagel Shop Café at the Lithuanian Jewish Community located at Pylimo street no. 4 in Vilnius.

Sponsored by the Lithuanian Jewish Community, the Bagel Shop Café and the Lithuanian Cultural Council