In 1819, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe published The West–Eastern Divan, his final major poetry cycle, inspired by his correspondence with actress Marianne von Willemer and Joseph von Hammer’s translations of the Persian poet Hafez. This anthology symbolises cultural exchange between the Orient and Occident, blending Latin and Persian traditions, and Christian and Muslim cultures. Across twelve books, Goethe explores political and religious themes to foster understanding between diverse worlds.
Nearly two centuries later, in 1999, Goethe’s title inspired a new form of dialogue in music. The West–Eastern Divan became the name of an orchestra founded by Argentine-Israeli pianist and conductor Daniel Barenboim and Palestinian-American academic Edward Said, bringing cross-cultural collaboration into a modern context.
Bridging Borders: 25 Years of the West–Eastern Divan Orchestra traces the evolution of The West–Eastern Divan from poetry to performance, exploring how its message of unity continues today. This 30-minute audio documentary features insights from Edward Said, Daniel Barenboim, Hisham Khoury, Tal Theodorou, Tabaré Perlas, Regula Rapp, and Jacob Eder.
Written and produced by Breandáin O’Shea.
Executive Producer: Kate Laycock.
