[no subject]

[Rachelle and Howard Shubert <shubert...>]

When I sing a traditional melody -- especially powerful are the ones
learned as a child -- I feel connected to my ancestors.  Like so many of us
who are now committed Jews I questioned and challenged my connection for
some years in my teens and early adulthood.  It was always the traditional
music that brought me home to who I really am. I feel it is in my heart and
soul.  I endeavour to pass this on when I am teaching a song to Jewish
children. 

At the same time I rejoice in the music of Jeffrey Klepper, Debbie Friedman
and other talented songwriters and sing their songs whenever possible.  The
intent of the composers to illuminate concepts and to bring us closer to
G-d is so obvious. They never trivialize. Gilligan's Island does.

I feel sad that many Reform Jews would feel more comfortable sitting in on
a liberal church service than attending an Orthodox shul. Knowledge of the
traditional melodies at least one thing which ties us to the rest of our
people. 

Rachelle Mingail Shubert
Montreal
shubert (at) total(dot)net 
Rachelle Mingail Shubert
Montreal
shubert (at) total(dot)net