Music at Temple Emanu-El Today
September 16, 2011
Music is such a vital element of worship. That’s why the Temple leadership, including Rabbi Meyer and the volunteer board, has put so much emphasis on developing an excellent music program. If you haven’t come to services since last year’s High Holydays, you may have missed what we’ve done.
Our musical evolution has been consistent with that of other Reform synagogues. Recall that Ashkenazi Judaism comes out of the eastern European tradition where music during worship existed only as chanting (Nusach) to carry forward the obligation of prayer. Musical instruments were forbidden, as they still are in many Conservative and most Orthodox shuls.
Today, the importance of music as part of the service can hardly be overstated. It serves both as aesthetic enhancement and for the purpose of spiritual inspiration. In Reform Judaism in general and here at Temple Emanu-El, music uplifts us and encourages us to participate. It enhances our feeling of holiness. Singing together engenders a stronger sense of community.
The music in this year’s High Holyday services will blend two styles that have woven together in recent years. We are pleased to welcome back Lynn Torgove, who has now completed her cantorial studies, as soloist. Morton Hyams, on the keyboard and directing the professional choir, will continue to enrich our worship. Our Music Specialist, Jon Nelson, will bring his unique talents to High Holyday worship as well. And of course, Rabbi Meyer coordinates along with Lynn, Morton and Jon just how our music weaves the content and feeling of the services together.
When I first became involved with Temple Emanu-El as a volunteer, enhancing the music program was my highest priority. We have made great strides. As you join with your fellow congregants in High Holyday worship, please join in with the music. Let it engage and inspire you too.
L’shanah tovah to all.
p.s. One of the most beautiful services of the year and my personal favorite is the Yom Kippur afternoon service that starts at 12:30pm. It lasts only an hour and tends to be much less crowded than the earlier service. We read the Book of Jonah, the Holiness Code (Lev. 19), and share unique grandeur of the Great Aleinu. Please consider joining me for this lovely element of holyday worship.
