I chose to tell my family’s story using a piano accordion, as my family’s story was made possible because of one. When my grandparents got engaged my grandpa’s most treasured possession was his accordion. After years of practice he was a talented player. But he could not afford an engagement ring and made the difficult decision to sell his treasured accordion. This was the best investment he ever made! Their union would bring together two families that were rich in core Jewish values such as education, hard work, sacrifice, an entrepreneurial spirit, perseverance, spirituality and a love of music and language. On my grandpa’s 80th birthday, we gave him a second-hand piano accordion. This project symbolises his sacrifice and reminds me that through the sacrifices of those that came before us, we continue those Jewish values that have ensured that as Jews we not only survive but thrive.
