[HANASHIR:10905] Re: Adon Olam to Rock Around the Clock

[Lynda Casden <lyndaC...>]

Dear Rachel:
I totally agree with you. I am a soloist and believe that a B'nai mitzvah can
have some input and if it deems appropriate and it works then why not.
Traditional nusach must be maintained along with the wonderful melodies that we
hear at Hava Nashira. As a composer, I believe that we need to be open to
everything but also we must be particular and weigh it closely. We have to
introduce new melodies slowly into our congregations. A Cantor and soloist must
be sensitive to their congregation as well and it is not just their opinion that
should matter. This is only my opinion.
Thanks!
Lynda

QuelliPG (at) aol(dot)com wrote:

> My view about using pop tunes for adon olam aside, as I don't even have the
> energy now to get into the discussion, something struck me about Beau
> Shapiro's post.  In every congregation I've ever been affliliated with, (all
> Conservative) the cantor was/is the one who makes all decisions about what
> melodies to use in the synagogue service, often with some input, or at least
> approval from the rabbi.  Since when does a bar mitzvah kid dictate what
> melodies a congregation uses?  Is this a standard practice in Reform temples?
>  Are B'nai mitzvah ceremonies separate from the service where the "regulars"
> attend?  Beau, you say you don't really like it, but the kid requested it so
> you have to do it?  I don't know  you, and don't know whether you're a
> cantor, service leader/shaliach tzibur or just a guy they hire to play a
> instrument.  I don't mean this as a personal attack - I'm just amazed that a
> 13 year old would have that much control over what takes place at a service!
>
> baffled in Dallas
> (aka Raquel Gershon)
>

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