On Saturday 21st September 2019 – the 20th Anniversary of Peace One Day, Rotarians in Oxfordshire and the Thames Valley presented The World Orchestra for Peace in an exclusive UK performance – The Oxford Concert For Peace. Performing without a conductor, 20 of the world’s leading string players from 15 different countries came together in Oxford to promote the idea of peace.
The World Orchestra for Peace (WOP), designated in 2010 as UNESCO Artist for Peace, owes its existence to the vision of its Founder Sir Georg Solti, a man who believed passionately in peace and the power of music and musicians to be ambassadors for peace.
Since 1995, more than 600 of the finest orchestral musicians from over 60 countries have given their services to show the world that they too share Solti’s vision.
Rotary International, among many commitments worldwide, promotes Peace, and as part of its effort, funds the Rotary Peace Fellows’ programme. Through its Foundation, courses are offered at six Universities around the world, aiming to inspire those who attend to promote peace in their communities and afar. Since 2000, over 1100 students have graduated with Masters’ degrees in Peace and Conflict Resolution, and many are now actively engaged in the field. Several Peace Fellows spoke at the concert.