Value one another, open your heart, and love unconditionally. This has been a constant
theme in my life and music, and I feel that Indonesian Ambassador Abdul Irsan has truly captured this spirit in his lyrics.
In his own words:
"Inspired by the many recent conflicts, this song reflects humanity's desire for world peace.
Conflicts of interest and the pursuit of one's own aims by any means, too often result in conflicts, violence, terror
and war, bringing sorrow and suffering to the people of the world. This song represents humanity's hope for a better world.
With love, passion and cooperation, the world can become a place of unity where all people can become one in peace."
"Nagomi" for 15-string O-koto and Kendang
Music & Arr.: Celia Dunkelman
I have used
the Japanese O-koto and the Kendang Indonesian drum in this piece to convey the bond I feel with my two homes. The Japanese
character in its name stands for generosity, harmony and peace; three interlocking concepts that I hope will always characterize
the bond between the two nations.
In creating this piece I am indebted to Tetsuro Gomi of Gomi Wagakki Japanese Instruments
Co., Ltd. for crafting my 15-string O-koto, unique in the entire world, and to my teacher, Satomi Fukami, and Mayusa Oda of
Hougaku Journal for their constant support and encouragement.
Ke'ev, Tikva Leshalom Ve'emuna ("Pain, Hope for Peace and Faith")
Lyrics: Ambassador
Eli-Eliyahu Cohen • Music & Arr.: Celia Dunkelman
I
feel that Israeli Ambassador Eli-Eliyahu Cohen has also captured the spirit of my mission and philosophy in his lyrics. In
his own words:
"Being in Japan for almost two years, physically far away from Israel, I have come to experience
the peace of Japan. Seeing how the Japanese people have made the long journey from war to peace has made me yearn that much
more for peace and harmony to come to Israel and the Middle East. Even though we carry within us the pain of the past, this
pain must be tempered with faith and the hope that peace will prevail in our lifetime."
Dunia Hanya Satu ("karaoke" version)
Ke'ev, Tikva Leshalom Ve'emuna ("karaoke" version)
Ke'ev, Tikva Leshalom Ve'emuna (special track)