Famed Israeli Violinist Itzhak Perlman to Receive Presidential Medal of Freedom

Famed Israeli violinist Itzhak Perlman will be among the 17 recipients of America’s Presidential Medal of Freedom next week. He is the fourth Israeli to receive the highest civilian honor in the U.S.

“A native of Israel, he came to the United States at a young age and was introduced to Americans broadly when he appeared on the ‘Ed Sullivan Show’ in 1958. Mr. Perlman made his Carnegie Hall debut in 1963 when he was 18,” a White House statement read.

President Barack Obama named seventeen recipients of the Presidential Medal of Freedom. The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the Nation’s highest civilian honor, presented to individuals who have made especially meritorious contributions to the security or national interests of the United States, to world peace, or to cultural or other significant public or private endeavors. The awards will be presented at the White House on November 24th.

Obama said, “I look forward to presenting these 17 distinguished Americans with our nation’s highest civilian honor. From public servants who helped us meet defining challenges of our time to artists who expanded our imaginations, from leaders who have made our union more perfect to athletes who have inspired millions of fans, these men and women have enriched our lives and helped define our shared experience as Americans.”

Perlman was a soloist for several major film scores, including “Schlinder’s List,” for which he won an Academy Award for Best Original Score. He and wife teach young musicians through the Perlman Music Program. Perlman is also an advocate for people with disabilities.

“Through his advocacy and his example, he has been an important voice on behalf of persons with disabilities,” said the White House.

Other Jewish recipients of this year’s Presidential Medal of Freedom include film director Steven Spielberg as well as singer and actress Barbara Streisand.

By: JNS.org