A Secret Chord is a celebration of rhythm, music and movement, a journey into the heart of cultural expression that transcends language and connects us all. At its core, this exhibition explores how sound and rhythm can bridge divides, unite communities and serve as a shared language that fosters understanding and belonging.

A Secret Chord celebrates the profound connection between music and the Jewish experience, showcasing highlights from the Jewish Museum of Australia: Gandel Centre of Judaica’s remarkable collection of artworks, artefacts and photographs. The exhibition explores the timeless significance of music in everyday life and religious practice and celebrates the vibrant Jewish music scene that exists in Australia today. From ancient prayers to contemporary compositions, immerse yourself and be moved by the melodies that bring Judaism to life.

This exhibition is enriched by the collaboration of our fellow Multicultural Museums Victoria (MMV). Each of the participating museums has generously contributed an object, instrument, or song that ties into the themes of A Secret Chord—offering a fascinating peek into how different cultures express their values, beliefs and histories through music and movement, creating a richer understanding of how music shapes our sense of belonging and preserves the stories embedded in our cultural fabric.

To complement our latest exhibition, we invite you to a suite of musical programs. A Secret Chord: Music, Rhythm & Movement in the Jewish Museum of Australia Collection is running alongside our current exhibition, I could have danced all night by Danielle Brustman, hosted in the Krongold Gallery.

Image: Sheet music for violin handwritten by Ivan Pietruschka (detail), circa 1941, Hay, New South Wales. Donated by Tanya Makin and Max Pietruschka. JMA Collection 4497.