Music
Music is central to the spiritual life of Temple Israel. We are known for our concerts and recitals, offered at regular intervals through the year. Our liturgical choir brings a unique level of spirituality to Yom Tov and special services and new members are welcome. Support and instruction are available for anyone who wishes to learn to chant Torah or Haftorah, the blessings, or to lead a Shiva or Havdalah service. Please contact Barbara Okun at music@templeisraelottawa.ca
Shabbat Shirah Service and Concert
February 4, 2012
Shabbat Shirah, named for the Parsha (Torah portion) that is chanted at the service (Shirat HaYam - Song of the Sea) is a date the congregation has chosen to celebrate Jewish music. In the past, the service has been an occasion to highlight new music, Temple musicians, or its musical leadership, and so varies a bit from year to year.
This year, a special group of Temple Youth will be leading the service, as they did last year. The music of our service will receive special attention in its presentation. Our Ba’alei T’fila (Musical Prayer leaders) will be honoured for their ongoing volunteer efforts at services throughout the year. And our special guests will be university students who are members of the Jewish Students Union – Hillel Ottawa. A representative from the organization will tell us more about the organization and its programs.
In the evening, at 8:00 pm there will be a concert featuring Musica Ebraica. The program will include choral, solo, and instrumental performances of Jewish music from a number of composers. Again that evening, a Hillel representative will speak briefly at the intermission about the organization and its mandate. There will be no admission charge for the concert, but donations will be requested. A portion of these will be directed to JSU-Hillel to support its programs.
We hope to see as many people as possible support the leadership efforts of our next generation, as they lead us in prayer and music, and tell us about their exciting plans for the future of Jewish life in Canada.
Trope
If you are ready to learn Torah trope in preparation to chant at Temple, there is someone waiting to join you on Mon, Wed, or Thursday evening (7 or later). The only prerequisite is the ability to accurately read Hebrew. We will use the text The Art of Torah Cantillation. Please contact Barbara at music@templeisraelottawa.ca
Barbara Okun, Cantorial Soloist
Melodies
