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My Polish Wisnia How My Grandfather Survived The Holocaust, Through Story & Song

My Polish Wisnia

Avi Wisnia shares the stories and songs of his late grandfather, Cantor David S. Wisnia. The “My Polish Wisnia” project traces David’s harrowing life journey from young Polish singing star to Auschwitz prisoner to American liberator with the 101st Airborne. Through it all, Cantor Wisnia’s remarkable singing voice helped save his life, especially in the Nazi concentration camp. Presented in multi-media presentations and concerts, My Polish Wisnia explores the importance of preserving David’s memories and experiences, as chronicled in his memoir “One Voice, Two Lives.” The project revolves around musical performances which highlight the powerful intergenerational connection between grandfather and grandson. The Wisnias most recently traveled to Poland to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz, their journey featured in the PBS documentary “How Saba Kept Singing.” By sharing his grandfather’s story, Avi highlights the urgency of keeping the memory of the Holocaust alive and passing on this legacy from generation to generation.

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Videos

How Saba Kept Singing film trailer

BuzzFeed Video: "How I Escaped The Holocaust"

Moishelach Shloimelach song

Seattle Holocaust Center: "How Music Saved My Grandfather in Auschwitz"

David Wisnia Sings Prayer at Auschwitz 70th Anniversary Event in Poland

Museum of American Jewish History Virtual Program

“Remembering the Holocaust" Program at Bucks County UU

Levittown Legends, The David Wisnia Story

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