The Tel Aviv Opera House hosted President Reuvin Rivlin and First Lady Nehama, along with German President Joachim Gauck and his wife Daniela Schadt, for a concert by the Thomanerchor Boys' Choir and the Gewandhaus Orchestra from Leipzig this evening (Saturday).
The two presidents gave short speeches before the concert, which featured sections from Bach's Christmas Oratorio.
President Rivlin used the opportunity to comment on the sudden death of former minister Yossi Sarid, then welcomed the Gaucks to Israel: "It seems that there is nothing more fascinating and symbolic to commemorating 50 years of relations between Israel and Germany than listening to the Thomanerchor choir and the Gewandhaus Orchestra, which came from Leipzig, and to enjoy the wonderful music here in Israel. I think that your playing is the best proof that, despite the terrible past, and perhaps because of it, we are continue to look for a different , and better, way for the future.
He continued, "The connection between Germany and Israel is not, and never will be, simple. The relationship between us needs much help and education to listen, and music is a great way to teach us to listen to each other. True friendship, between our dear nations and countries, is important to me, as well as to all of Israel."
Rivlin stressed that Israel, together with Germany, must remain vigilant against terrorists who threaten to harm civilians, from the Middle East to Europe, due to their religion. "During these days, and the current criminal terrorism, violence, intolerance, and religious persecution against civilians from the Middle East to Europe, we in Israel and Germany must stand together. We all must continue and stand as a barrier against those evil spirits aiming to remove our foremost common value - respect for each other."
President Gauck, in his turn, thanked President Rivlin and said, "Tonight I am with you, celebrating the end of the jubilee in diplomatic relations. This began with music, in Berlin, and today we will also conclude with music, that of Bach. I have a picture in my head - you are sitting here, and the German people are praising you with music playing around the world - the music of Christmas.
"We enjoy this gift of Mendelssohn, which restored Bach's music to the public's consciousness. Honored President, you mentioned the young voices that sing music and words from the Bible. This music is often performed, and I feel that the fact of bringing this choir here is also a gift for me."
Gauck concluded by saying, "We mark the jubilee year of our relations during trouble times. I am convinced that it is still right to celebrate, because we need to show who we are - we live during times in which others try to spread danger, and think about the future. We need music and art to open the doors of thought. Those who try to defend themselves and their people need the magic of art while looking for peace.
The German first couple is on an official visit to Israel in commemoration of 50 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries. Tomorrow President Gauck is invited to an official lunch at President Rivlin's residence.