In the latest episode of Song of Hope, singer-songwriter and actress Marina Maximilian delivers a deeply moving performance that resonates with Israel’s current reality. Born in the Soviet Union and having immigrated to Israel with her parents at the age of three, Marina grew up in a household where music was always present which shaped her artistic journey from an early age.

In this episode, Marina performs Nechama (“Comfort”) at the piano – a beloved song penned by Rachel Shapira, an Israeli lyricist and poet, while the melody was composed by Nurit Hirsh, a prolific Israeli composer who has written over a thousand Hebrew songs throughout her distinguished career. It was originally recorded by Ilanit in 1982, and after a year recorded also by Chava Alberstein.

Marina reflects on her parents’ courageous decision to immigrate to Israel with two small children when she was just a toddler. Speaking in the context of post-October 7 Israel, she discusses the profound questions about immigration that the war has brought to light, emphasizing the importance of finding comfort wherever possible.

The episode also features a particularly touching memory from Marina’s performances for IDF soldiers. “During the more upbeat part of the evening, a few men in wheelchairs rolled up to me,” she recalls. "Then, to my amazement, one of them stood up – and that encouraged the other two to stand as well. It was the first time they had stood on their feet since being injured.”

Through her music and personal reflections, Marina Maximilian embodies the resilience and hope that define the Israeli spirit, showing how art can provide healing and connection during the most challenging times.