Tear-Jerking Performance Of ‘Bridge Over Troubled Waters’ By Shalva Band With Emirati Musicians

JERUSALEM (VINnews) — In an historic performance which took place in Jerusalem Monday, the Shalva Band, a musical group comprising musicians with special needs,  performed in collaboration with musicians from the United Arab Emirates a moving rendition of Simon and Garfunkel’s “Bridge Over Troubled Water,” intended to send a message of unity, peace and cooperation. The musicians were accompanied by the Jerusalem Symphony orchestra.

A clip of the virtual performance was released by Shalva on Facebook and also reached Youtube. The song is sung in English and Hebrew by the Shalva Band and in Arabic and English by Emirati musicians, including Tareq Al Menhali. The song was produced in honor of the 31st anniversary celebration of Shalva, which was organized around the theme, “Building Bridges to the Future.” The tune was chosen to represent the budding partnership with Emirati musicians because of its uplifting message of hope and optimism.

The guest speaker at the celebratory dinner for the Shalva anniversary was Yousef Al Otaiba, UAE Ambassador to the United States and one of the key architects of the Abraham Accords.

“It is an honor to participate in the American Friends of Shalva’s 31st anniversary event,” said Otaiba. “The United Arab Emirates shares Shalva’s unwavering commitment to improving the lives of people with disabilities. In the UAE, those with intellectual disabilities or special needs are referred to as people of determination, in recognition of their achievements across different fields. The collaboration to create the special rendition of ‘Bridge Over Troubled Water’ demonstrates how we must all continue to work together – regardless of nationality, religion or culture – to promote positive social change and foster more inclusive societies.”

Shalva, the Israel Association for the Care and Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities is dedicated to providing transformative care for individuals with disabilities, empowering their families and promoting social inclusion. Shalva’s comprehensive life-cycle programming provides leading-edge therapies, inclusive educational frameworks, social and recreational activities, employment training, and independent living, as well as respite and family support.