[HANASHIR:4738] RE: cantor and choir director HELP

[CantorLLL <CantorLLL...>]

 As a cantor, I am called upon to wear many hats in many situations.  To say 
that it is not possible to do two things at once, such as being cantor as 
well as choir director, is to deny one aspect of my cantorate at the expense 
of another.  

I train my choir to help lead the congregation in song.  They are trained 
well enough, so that when we pray, together, during the service, I can face 
the congregation, sing a few solo passages, and give them some cutoffs, 
phrasing and dynamics as well.  All of these things have been so well 
rehearsed, that they are almost automatic during our prayer.  I always 
feature them in a few songs, to sing on their own, with me conducting with my 
back to the congregation. This does not diminish my involvement or the beauty 
of the service, but models the fact that I do not have to be singing in order 
for kavannah to be present. There is balance, there is a feeling of 
connection with the congregation, there is not a 'performance' attitude, 
therefore, everything is always good, or should I say, lovely.  Being a 
cantor and being a choir director, to me, are connected.  We are all praying, 
we are all bringing G-d's sprit through us through song.  The music is the 
vehicle and we are the vessels.  As long as we are well prepared, we can 
achieve this kavannah during our worship experience as shaliach tzibur and as 
conductors.   I humbly suggest that before you make up your mind as to 
whether or not you can be both, try doing it.  I think you'll be suprised at 
how fulfilling the combination can be.
Cantor Lisa Levine
Des Moines, IOWA

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