Link to annual programs, 1999-
During the Holocaust, many musicians and other artists were persecuted by the Nazis, some because they were Jewish, others because of the content of their art. The Gideon Klein Award offers $5000 to a student in any major to create an original work, prepare a performance, or do research related to music or musicians of the Holocaust. The student will also offer a public presentation at Northeastern during Holocaust and Genocide Awareness Week and archive the project on the Jewish Studies and Holocaust Awareness Committee Archives websites. Students at Northeastern and Hebrew College are eligible to apply.
This award honors the memory of Gideon Klein, pianist and composer, who was imprisoned in Terezin and other concentration camps until his death in 1945. While in Terezin, Klein inspired other musicians to compose and share their music with others in the most difficult circumstances. The award was established in 1997 by Prof. Bill Giessen in memory of his mother, Gustel Cormann Giessen.