[HANASHIR:5040] Performance vs. praying

[Chazzzan <Chazzzan...>]

This issue has come up in this forum in the past.  But in the light of these 
new "performance" or "liturgical concert" pieces, it begs to be answered.  In 
my opinion, having members of the congregation who are tapping their feet or 
bobbing their heads in time with the music is very nice.  However, I don't 
know if I would consider that a "religious" experience or even a "spiritual" 
one.  I want them SINGING!!!!!!!

Regarding choirs, I believe that a choir and a particular arrangement can be 
handled in such a way that they motivate the congregants to sing along, 
getting fully involved with the melodies, the words and the feeling of 
Shabbat.

On Erev Shabbat, I had the good fortune to join a few hundred locals at Beth 
El of Stamford, Connecticut to enjoy the Friday Night Live service of Craig 
Taubman.  It was phenomenal!  He had us up, clapping and moving in the 
aisles.  What great ruach flowed through the large sanctuary!

Brian Serle






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