Apr. 18, 2014 | Al Jazeera English
Music school helps relieve tensions in conflict-torn Gaza Strip, but access to instruments remains a challenge.
9-year old Joanna plays piano at Edward Said Music Academy in Gaza, Nov. 10, 2013 ©Lena Odgaard
GAZA CATY - From the outside, Gaza’s only music school does not look like one.
A grey-and-white cement building, it could easily pass for an office or apartment complex. But for the approximately 200 children who attend, it is not about appearance; it is about sound.
In the hallway of the Gaza Music School, classical music mixes with Eastern tones. In one room, a nine-year-old girl has one of her first piano lessons, singing with her teacher as she carefully tests the keys. In another room, two teenage girls play the violin - but they rush to close the door, giggling, when they notice someone is listening.