[HANASHIR:8402] Re: torn about Hava Nashira this year

[GKaye <GKaye...>]

Shalom to all....

In response to the questions that Rick and others have asked, a word of 
clarification.  

Hava Nashira was created as a learning workshop for those who primarily work 
with children in various teaching environments.  This focus began with camp 
staff but certainly included synagogue schools, community centers and a wide 
variety of similar venues.  As it took off in popularity, it became clear 
that many committed to Jewish music in every venue quickly felt the desire to 
gather together to share their music, their questions and the spirit 
intrinsic in their art.

The faculty changed along the way to include more folks with cantorial 
direction both invested and soloists.  As these changes (and others) took 
place, many of the original target audience began to feel left out.  At the 
same time, the UAHC opened a number of other program events for a wider 
variety of Jewish music specialists (See UAHC.NET or call Cantor Josee Wolff 
at 212-650-4000 for these offerings).  

In responding to our original mission, our direction this year will be 
brought back to those who primarily teach to children and families.  Now, 
there is no intent to "exclude others," rather to include the many who are 
sent by their camps, congregations, centers and communities to become more 
skilled NO MATTER WHAT THEIR LEVEL.  

Hava Nashira seeks to respond to the needs of a wide community of teachers of 
music.  It may not respond to the desires of those who truly wish a spiritual 
gathering for their own sake.  There is nothing wrong with such a direction 
but it is provided in other venues while Debbie Friedman, Ellen Dreskin, 
Craig Taubman and the rest of the faculty can certainly bring together the HN 
community to achieve our communal goals with an extraordinary sense of 
personal involvement.

Hava Nashira also serves as a showcase for the talents of the participants as 
well as the faculty.  In this way, we hope to highlight many of the gifted 
people in our community and allow the participants to learn from each other 
as well.

At this time, registration is coming in hot and heavy with nearly 2/3 of the 
spaces already spoken for.  Next week is the NAA conference at which it will 
be further advertised to a large group of camp directors and youth workers so 
please do send in your application if you are planning to attend.

Shabbat Shalom,

Jerry Kaye, Director
Olin-Sang-Ruby Union Institute