Music
Save this date: Sunday afternoon October 31, 2010 at Temple Israel
Shayla Mindell
On October 31 Temple Israel and Friendship Force Ottawa will host a concert of visiting Russian artists along with 2 cosmonauts. Friendship Force is a non-aligned organization which fosters international friendship and understanding through home stays, and home-hosting. People from all walks of life, from all parts of the world, share lives and are enriched through the sharing of cultures. Friendship Force has some 350 member clubs in 56 countries throughout the world and participation in its activities changes the way members see the world.
This cultural event will feature an opera singer and pianist and two folk musicians. We are also hoping that the cosmonauts will give a presentation on their experiences. There is no admission charge but we request that you pick up tickets in advance, either at the Temple office or by contacting FFO members, Linda Steingarten or Shayla Mindell.
This is an opportunity for Temple Israel to participate with another community organization and to promote friendship. More details will be provided closer to the concert date.
Music Matters
Barbara Okun, Cantorial Soloist
The Art of Torah Cantillation
Chanting Torah: The latest series of Torah Trope students completed their study of the Art of Torah Cantillation in February, and the congregation will hear most of them chant in the months to come. Some are preparing to chant to mark a special milestone in their life, and have chosen to fulfill this Mitzvah to mark the occasion.
For those who have already learned to chant, there is always an opportunity to maintain your skills. I am happy to record the assigned verses, as well as assist in other aspects of preparing a portion.
Mah Tovu!: The ‘B’not Mitzvah Group” (Sheila Baslaw, Janet Cohen, Sue Gold, Hannah Halpern, Merle Haltrecht-Matte, Linda Rossman, and Linda Slotin) have been meeting monthly to continue to study since celebrating their Bat Mitzvah about 10 years ago. I met with them on April 18 to take a closer look at the opening prayer of Shacharit (Morning) services, Mah Tovu (How Fair Are Your Tents, O Jacob). We discussed the text and its meaning, and reviewed a small sample of the many musical interpretations of this beautiful liturgy. We touched on the effect of the different musical styles that are used, be it for Shabbat, High Holy Days, formal or less formal.
In June, the group is interested in learning more about the Havdala melodies and texts.
