“Stories of heroism through the voice of three pianos” – a tribute to the victims of October 7, 2023, two years after the terrorist attack in Israel

Two years after the terrorist attack of October 7, 2023 in Israel, Bucharest National Opera hosted an emotional concert of commemoration and solidarity. The concert, entitled “Stories of heroism through the voice of three pianos”, was dedicated to the memory of the victims of the attack.

The Ambassador of the State of Israel in Romania, one of the special guests: video capture
Two years after the tragedy that rocked the whole world, artists, doctors, diplomats and culture lovers gathered in a gesture of solidarity and compassion, demonstrating that music can become the universal language of healing and hope.
Among the special guests were Es Lior Ben Dor, the ambassador of the state Israel in Romania, prof. dr. Cătălin Cîrstoiu – Manager of the University Emergency Hospital Bucharest, Dr. Chen Kugel – president of the National Institute of Legal Medicine in Israel and the composer and Israeli pianist Gil Shohat, author of the “Eichmann process” Opera.
Prof. univ. Dr. Cătălin Cîrstoiu moderated the event, and together with Dr. Chen Kugel he recalled the dramatic moments of the tragedy of 2023, emphasizing the essential role of solidarity, empathy and medical contribution in times of crisis.
The show was supported by pianists Gil Shohat, Chen Kugel and Alexandru Burcă, along with the baritone Alexandru Constantin, accompanied by the Orchestra of the Bucharest National Opera, under the baton of Master Daniel Jinga. Together, they offered the public a memorable evening, in which the virtuosity of the music has intertwined with emotion and reflection.
“We will not forget and we will not rest until we bring them home”
In his speech, the ambassador of Israel, Es Lior Ben Dor, mentioned the tragedy of October 7, 2023 and its victims: “On this horrible day, men, women and innocent children were killed, tortured, burned or taken by the terrorists in Gaza. Families were destroyed, torn communities, and this inhuman cruelty will remain forever engraved in our collective memory”.
The diplomat stressed that, despite the passage of time, the pain and the fight for the truth remain alive: “While we are gathered here, we do not forget the 48 Israeli hostages who are still in captivity in Gaza. We will not rest until we bring them home, to meet with their families. We really hope that an agreement will be reached in the coming days. ”
The ambassador paid tribute to those who contributed to the organization of the event, thanking “Mrs. Tova Ben Nun-Cherbis, the president of the Lauder-Reut Educational Complex, and the master Daniel Jinga, the director of the Bucharest National Opera, because they made this event possible“. At the same time, he mentioned Dr. Chen Kugel,”who was in the first line of the truth after October 7, witness of the unimaginable and responsible cruelty to give the victims a worthy funeral and their last honor”.
Romania, a partner of solidarity
During the discourse, ES Lior Ben Dor expressed the gratitude of the state of Israel towards Romania: “I want to express my gratitude towards the Romanian people and government for the support and solidarity offered to Israel during this difficult period. Romania was firm with Israel, condemning terrorism and supporting our right to defend and live in peace and security. “
He added that the presence of the numerous public at the concert was “A living proof of the unique friendship between Romania and Israel”offering a concrete example: “An extraordinary example of this friend is Prof. Dr. Cătălin Cîrstoiu, the director of the University Emergency Hospital in Bucharest, who, together with the management and students of the University of Medicine and Pharmacy, initiated a professional dialogue with Dr. Chen Kugel ”.
Music – the voice of hope
The event at the National Opera was more than a concert: it was a statement of faith in humanity, a call to solidarity and a message of hope.
“We have gathered here to remember the victims, to say that we are determined to fight for the truth, for scientific accuracy and for life. We understand the dangers and threats, but we are determined to build a better future.”said the ambassador of Israel.
Through the emotion of music and the strength of the word, “Stories of heroism through the voice of three piani ” He once again demonstrated that art can unite, heal and inspire, keeping the memory of the lost and cultivating hope in a more righteous and human world.




