[HANASHIR:9780] Re: Jewish choirs

[ItaSara <ItaSara...>]

In a message dated 9/10/01 2:59:22 AM, hanashir (at) shamash(dot)org writes:

<< Since choirs (and organs) are few and far between in synagogues these days 
>>

Yes, and my opinion is that this is very unfortunate. Maybe the trend is 
getting away from the big sound professional choir, but eliminating 
opporuntiies to sing and learn Jewish music on a regular basis is eliminating 
the needs that some congregants have; I know because I am one of them. I grew 
up in temple choirs and I feel  spiritually able to contribute in this 
setting. Even though not everyone can be pleased all of the time, there is is 
much beautiful liturgical music, old and new, that goes unnoticed and unsung 
because of a desire that everything must be singable and familiar these days. 
(and some of it is boring week after week!) Not all music is suited to just 
to one soloist. Some variety is good, and choirs and talented members can 
help provide that variety and congregational leadership. Jewish musicians 
would like to have an outlet for their work in the jewish setting, but often 
one finds them in churches instead because there is still a need for singers 
and musicians there. There is no one easy answer, and I know that the whole 
topic is controversial. but I look at the need for some choir activitiy in 
the temple as a form of participation, enjoyment, and spirituality. Even paid 
participation might have its place.   

------------------------ hanashir (at) shamash(dot)org -----------------------+