Uri Bar-Or (2002-2024), the eldest son of Noa and Kobi Bar-Or, was a soldier in the Nahal Brigade of the IDF. He was killed during the Swords of Iron campaign at the age of 21. Uri was born and raised in the Negev—at Midreshet Ben-Gurion, a place that shaped his unique character and his music.

Drawn to music from an early age, he was recognized as a gifted composer in high school. Uri composed four classical pieces, and at 18, he wrote the classical composition, Heartbeat Rhythm, which was performed by the Israel Chamber Orchestra.

During the war, Uri fought in Gaza as part of a strike team. Even while serving, Uri found moments of calm and creativity to teach music to his fellow soldiers. His friends remember Uri as “the glue”— uniting everyone together.

Uri was an educator. One of his students said that he taught her everything he knew about classical music, and thanks to him, she is enlisting in the army to become the lead composer for the IDF Orchestra.

To carry on his music, ‘Mitzpe Uri’ (Uri’s Observatory) was established—a place that blends the quiet of the desert with reflection and music. Located along the boardwalk of Midreshet Ben-Gurion, it overlooks Nahal Tzin. Against this breathtaking landscape, Uri’s music and talent will live on.

On Friday, December 19th, on Uri’s birthday, at 12:30 PM (Israel), the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra will perform his compositions at Mitzpe Uri, accompanied by the singer Achinoam Nini (Noa) in the song ‘Akara (Uri)’.