Obama opens new doors for David D'Or
After singing for US president during his Jerusalem visit, Israeli singer receives invitations for performances around the world
D'Or recently performed at the Hanoi Opera House in an event marking 20 years of diplomatic relations between Israel and Vietnam, which was attended by local government officials. He has also received an invitation to sing in Indonesia, a place rarely visited by Israeli artists, and gave a concert in the United States with the Houston Symphony.
"I feel, without a hint of cynicism, like an emissary," D'Or says. "Music is one of the best ways to bring people together, and when I perform in front of an audience which only knows Israel through what the global media emphasizes, and mainly through the pictures and reports about the conflict with the Palestinians, I try to convey an experience of Israel from a different angle."
Meaning?
"When I see foreign nationals listening excitedly to the song 'Tishmor Al Ha'olam, Yeled' (guard over the world, child) with their eyes shining, I understand the immense power every time. It focuses on what connects us to the world rather than on what separates us from it."
Did you receive any interesting reactions after performing for Obama?
"The president suggested that we sing a duet next time. Secretary of State John Kerry invited me to sing at 'Les Misérables' in New York. Former New York Mayor Rudolph Giuliani called, asked for an album and sent a taxi to my house with a book he wrote and a dedication.
"Thailand's princess asked for my CD to listen to at her palace. You can't just give a princess any CD. You have to place it on a platter and cover it with golden paper, which made my entire team run around Bangkok."
