Composer Igor Stravinsky conducted the Hatikvah for the first time in his life last night at Jerusalem’s Convention Hall.
The noted composer stepped up to the podium to conduct the orchestra in the national anthem in honor of the unscheduled attendance of President and Mrs. Ben-Zvi at Israel’s Second Music Festival. The composer demonstrated that the anthem was not unfamiliar to him.
He was given a standing ovation by the enthusiastic audience for his brief stint as a conductor. The program was conducted by his associate, Robert Craft.
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