At 99, Holocaust survivor Saul Dreier defies time by continuing his mission to spread peace and educate about the Holocaust through the universal language of music, as reported by ABC15. Surviving against all odds, Dreier, who once suffered the brutalities of living in concentration camps during World War II, has turned to melodies comprising of hope and history with his "Saul's Generation Foundation," performing with a band of fellow survivors.
After moving to the U.S. in the late 1940s, Dreier lived a successful life, but it wasn't until he was 89 that he picked up a new beat, founding his band, the goal is to connect across generations, not just relay tragic history but also to echo peace throughout the world. Rabbi Mendy Deitsch from Chabad of the East Valley emphasized Dreier's positive outlook despite his past, hinting at the broader impact of such resilience, "even if we go through a traumatic experience - that no one should ever have to go through - that it shouldn't define who you are," he told ABC15.
Dreier's story, replete with its tragic and triumphant notes, has captivated audiences beyond the music, his band's performances have provided a platform for vital discussions on antisemitism and tolerance, and his appearances have included playing with the U.S. Marine Band at the White House, according to an interview with USA TODAY.
Within days of being inspired by an essay about a centenarian pianist Holocaust survivor, Dreier immersed himself fully into the world of music, packing a new drum set into his "very small Lexus" with just enough space left for him to drive, his initial homecoming met with his wife's exasperation, quoted Dreier, "She told me, 'The drums go or I go,'" demonstrating not only a tenacious commitment but also a lighthearted approach to the obstacles he faced even in personal life, Dreier told USA TODAY.
As the number of Holocaust survivors dwindles, Dreier’s vibrant spirit and relentless advocacy work through the Saul's Generation Foundation ensures the continuity of their stories and lived experiences, the foundation also plays a role in aiding the elderly and mentoring the youth, Justyna Kolaczek, who co-founded the foundation with Dreier, praised his interaction with young people, discussing not just history but dreams and mental health, "It's about dreams, too, and how it's never too late to follow them," she explained to USA TODAY.
