On Feb. 23, 2014 at the age of 110, Alice Herz-Sommer, a concert pianist and thought to be oldest survivor of the Holocaust, died in a London hospital. Mrs. Herz-Sommer was known around the world for her optimism and belief in the healing power of music. She shared her experiences and wisdom through books, YouTube Appearances and a short documentary film nominated this year for an Oscar. Born and raised in Prague, Mrs. Herz-Sommer’s upbringing included being surrounded by writers and musicians, which led to her life as an accomplished concert pianist. 

In 1943, while living in nazi-occupied Czechoslovakia, she was sent to a camp-ghetto outside of Prague with her husband and young son.  Mrs. Herz-Sommer dedicated her entire time at the camp shielding the reality of the situation from her son and motivating the people around her to continue surviving through music. Unfortunately, Mrs. Herz-Sommer’s husband died before the camp diminished, but she and her son were able to leave and continue their lives. Mrs. Herz-Sommer became a music teacher and even kept playing piano after she lost the use of two fingers—truly showing her deep passion for music.