By Stephen Kaufman
Washington File staff writer

Washington -- Musicians from around the world are giving concerts October 10 dedicated to tolerance and humanity to mark what would have been the 40th birthday of slain Wall Street Journal reporter Daniel Pearl.

Pearl was kidnapped and murdered in Pakistan in early 2002 while researching a news story. In his honor, friends and family established the Daniel Pearl Foundation in order to further the reporter's love of music and cross-cultural friendships. The October 10 event is the second Daniel Pearl Music Day, which the foundation organized.

Noted international artists such as Salman Ahmad, Yefim Bronfman, Ida Haendel, Herbie Hancock, Sir Elton John, Yo-Yo Ma, Zubin Mehta, Mark O'Connor, Itzhak Perlman, Prof. A.J. Racy, Simon Shaheen, Ravi Shankar, Barbra Streisand, and John Williams are inviting musicians from around the world to "dedicate a performance with a message of tolerance, understanding and global harmony" to commemorate Pearl, according to a press release issued by the Daniel Pearl Foundation.

The slain journalist was an avid violin and mandolin player, and "used his passion for music to form friendships across cultural and verbal divides," according to the Daniel Pearl Foundation's website (www.danielpearl.org). The website lists over 200 musicians and ensembles in more than 30 countries who have registered to participate in the Daniel Pearl Music Day concerts.

"We have a unique opportunity to promote a message of tolerance and the spirit of peace on Daniel Pearl Music Day," said jazz musician and composer Herbie Hancock. "I encourage other musicians around the world to join me in this message of harmony and understanding through music." Similar calls were issued by Britain's pop music star, Sir Elton John.

The 200 performances will encompass musical styles ranging from classical symphony orchestras and choirs, rock, jazz, folk, rhythm and blues, alternative rock bands, traditional groups, solo artists and music students.

"The breadth of concerts around the world and the enthusiasm of musicians is truly heartwarming," said Judea Pearl, Daniel's father. "This global concert lets peace-loving people everywhere know that they are not alone and that standing united, humanity will prevail. Hundreds of thousands of music lovers are with us, playing music that Danny loved, celebrating the ideals for which he stood. Music helps bridge differences and unveil the oneness of humanity."