May 2005

Jewish tradition has always placed a lot of emphasis on music and song. In fact, we call our Torah, a "song." We chant and sing our texts and liturgy. This year at CBI, we have enjoyed new dimensions of Jewish music with increased instrumentation, including guitar and violin performed by our talented members, at Kabbalat Shabbat, holiday performances by the Klezbillies, vocal solos by members, and lively singing led by our choir.

At the same time, our Torah study, davening and prayer are also important to us. The High Holiday experience we seek is meaningful, inspiring and motivating. Each year we have looked for new ways to enhance our communal prayer at the most important Holy Days of the year.

So as we begin to think ahead to the Day of Awe next fall, I am excited that we will once again be welcoming a student Cantor to our High Holiday services. A few years ago (before I moved to Chico), CBI experienced the liveliness and engagement introduced by a guest cantor from the East Coast. There is now a non-denominational Cantorial School at the Academy for the Jewish Religion in Los Angeles, from which we can draw talented cantorial students.

The beautiful singing of a professional Cantor will inspire and uplift us as well as helping all of us to participate more fully in the musical aspect of the holidays. Of course, having a Cantor will also assist me greatly, and allow me as Rabbi to focus more of my energies on preparing sermons, teachings, and innovative programs for the holidays. Thus the addition of a Cantor can enhance both the musical and the non-musical elements of our Holiday services.

Mitzi Schwartz, student cantor, has been interviewed by phone and has provided the board with her CV and a demo CD. Just a few moments of hearing her soaring soprano voice has enthralled all listeners. But she also has an energetic, engaging personality and a diverse background that's perfect for CBI. Mitzi grew up Conservative, belonged for years to a Renewal congregation and has worked extensively for Reform synagogues as a substitute cantor, soloist and youth cantor. She also has years of experience on the stage, as a solo performer, and in the shul! She is currently recording her first CD album. Cantor Mitzi can lead traditional davening, chant Torah & haftarah, perform inspiring solos, and is also skilled at leading the participatory communal singing so beloved of our congregants. And of course she is eager to work with our local musicians and talented soloists to continue to have lots of community participation.

Please look here for details about a delightful "Garden Party" this month, being organized by Sam Edelman, Helene Ginsberg and our Events Committee as a way to help fund the participation of our student Cantor in the fall. It will be a unique event in a lovely setting, and will feature Jewish music as an appropriate way to help support bringing student Cantor Mitzi to Chico for the holidays.

L'shalom,

Rabbi Julie Hilton Danan