In a poignant display of hope and resilience, Edith Ohel, a mother whose son was kidnapped during the Nova Music Festival in Israel, is using music as a means to connect with her son, Alon. One year after the tragic event, which marked one of the deadliest days in Israeli history, Ohel continues to keep her son’s spirit alive through a series of yellow pianos she has placed in over ten countries, including Japan and France.

Ohel describes her son’s piano, which remains silent with its lid open, as a symbol of his energy and presence. “It’s like energy come home and play,” she said, expressing her belief that music is an integral part of Alon’s identity. Despite the absence of any video proof of life since his abduction, Ohel maintains a deep emotional connection, feeling a “red thread” that binds her to him.

As tensions escalate in the region, Ohel has joined other families of hostages in urging the Israeli government to pursue a ceasefire, especially in light of recent violence that resulted in the deaths of six hostages. “Time is running out,” she warned, highlighting the urgency of the situation. The ongoing conflict, including rocket attacks from Hezbollah, has left families like hers in a state of constant fear and uncertainty.

In a powerful act of solidarity, Ohel and others gather at Tel Aviv’s Hostage Square, where musicians perform on the yellow pianos, sending messages of hope to the hostages. “When you play for somebody, you give something from yourself,” Ohel said, believing that the music will somehow reach her son.

As the situation remains dire, Ohel’s commitment to keeping her son’s memory alive through music serves as a testament to the enduring bond between a mother and her child, even in the face of unimaginable adversity.