[no subject]

[Adrian A . Durlester <durleste...>]

"
Frankly, I think it boils down to this: what works for you. I am the
keyboard player for our congregation (admittedly, Reform, but as is common
in small town, fairly traditional in spirit.) We use quite a bit of
Debbie's music in the service, along with works by Jeff Klepper, Julie
Silver, and other contemporary artists. We can get in to the discussion
about whether one can truly play the keyboard and daven at the same time,
but lets put that aside for now. For me, when I play, I pray. The music
really takes me to a higher plane, and often I get to the end of a song
and never know how I got there.

Also, not all prayer need be introspective. More "up" tunes can be just
as appropriate for certain parts of the service.
"

Adrian,
I basically agree with you when you say that you should use whatever it
works for you.  That is why I said I rarely resort to her material.
Although I have to confess that I never heard any Julie Silver, Jeff
klepper's songs also turn me on.  My question was more about what you
feel is appropriate.  And you answered it when you said that you get a
high from the music.
I understand that, and appreciate it.  Not only from being a Cantor
myself, but because I am a human being.  For me, on the other hand, even
though the music is an integral part of my spiritual experience, the
words are what brings me to a higher plane.  And that is why, even though
I like Klepper's or Friedman's music, I do not think they belong in the
service.  Their music captures the general mood of the prayers, and is
also useful in building community.  I do not think it captures the
individual meaning of the words.
I realize that this point of view is subjective, and I hope all those who
are reading this realize it as well.  I would like to hear from more
people who disagree with me.  My intent is that we should be able to talk
about the deeper conections that music brings to us.  And since we are
all lovers of Jewish music, I know we all have our two cents to contribute.
Looking forward to hear from Ya'll.

Henrique

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Henrique Ozur Bass                      Jewish Theological Seminary of America
Cantorial Student                       21 Pilgrim Lane
hebass (at) JTSA(dot)EDU                        Westbury, NY 11590
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