It is impossible to measure how many words, prayers, prophecies and expressions of longing have been directed toward Jerusalem each day, for thousands of years, and from every faithful corner of the earth. The Jerusalem Festival of Sacred Music joins this tradition and seeks to broaden it. For 24 hours, musicians and artists from Israel and abroad, from different and varied traditions, will rejoice in the concept of "sanctity" and imbue it with new relevance.
The 2012 festival hopes to inaugurate a new tradition that will deliver, to and from Jerusalem, a message of sanctity, sensitivity, compassion and inter-faith unity—a message that is at once personal and collective. The festival venues were meticulously selected to ensure that their historic and symbolic characteristics reflect the spirit of the performances. In tandem to other venues, the Tower of David Museum was the central meeting point for the full 24 hours of the festival. The Tower was the beating heart of the entire happening, welcoming the public to wander its history laden halls and paths while enjoying a variety of performances, sacred ceremonies, dialogues, and more.
Alongside the musical program, the festival offered "testimony tours," a selection of walks around town showcasing the authentic rituals and ceremonies of Jerusalem's diverse faiths, which represent an ancient and still organic component of the city's rich, multi-textured tapestry.
Artistic Director: Gil Ron Shama
Co-Artistic Director: Gil Karniel
Vision and Creative Direction: Gil Karniel, Omri Sharir
Producer: Carmi Wurtman, 2bVibes
Artistic Director, Jerusalem Season of Culture: Itay Mautner
