My strongest memory of the transformational power of music came as a teacher during the first days of Camp Airy’s “Rock Band” elective.  On the first day, Noah (15) shared that he wanted to perform “Sympathy for the Devil” by the Rolling Stones in front of the entire camp. During our first rehearsal, Noah stood completely still, kept his eyes on the ground, and mumbled every lyric. I knew we had an uphill battle. Slowly but surely, I introduced a new element each day, catered specifically to him. I witnessed the power of music empower this shy kid. He was able to embrace the lyrics “Please allow me to introduce himself” as he rocked out in front of hundreds of his camp community and the dropped jaws of his counselors and cabin-mates. I will never forget the joy on his face and the impact this had for him. 

Music also has the power to transform communities. On October 13th, the Friday after the horrific events in Israel, I searched for a balance of sorting through my own feelings and supporting my community in Sag Harbor. Miraculously, I was sent a recording of our Israeli delegation to Shwayder Camp singing Matisyahu’s “One Day” just a week before. When I heard their voices together, I immediately knew what I would offer my congregation. The feelings of fear, anxiety, and unrest were present that Shabbat, and our service was much more subdued to match. The congregation listened as Rabbi Dan Geffen delivered a powerful sermon and then I offered this setting of music about peace. You could feel the difference. There were tears and people embraced. The mood was still solemn, but lighter. We were able to transform and carry our congregation through this moment by offering moments of connection, and moments of space. Through music specifically, we have the sacred opportunity to give voice to emotion when words are not enough.

My own personal transformation started in Jerusalem. I studied music and text in Jerusalem, I sang in musicals and choirs, and I learned as much as I could about Judaism and myself. I discovered I had a passion for Jewish text and learning thanks to Ohr Sameach and Pardes. I never knew how much I didn’t know and how rich our tradition is. There was one musical experience which stood out and really impacted me during this time. Almost every week during Shabbat with other young adults in their 20s and 30s, I would gather at friends’ apartments after services and we would eat, play board games, and sing zmirot (songs/hymns). I have always connected with people through music, but this was different. It reminded me of Havdalah at camp combined with the energy of song sessions; it simultaneously evoked the rush of being on stage and the calmness of meditation. I felt this musical experience deep within my soul and it reminded me of the sacred work I had always wanted to do. My transformation helped me see zmirot as a way to bring together old traditions with new experiences. I dedicated my thesis to exploring this idea and acknowledging the similarities between zmirot and song sessions from camp. I hope to use zmirot as a way to connect with people of all ages, but especially our teens and young adults.

As a Cantor, I have personally and professionally witnessed the transformative power of music and I’m excited to continue. I ultimately strive to use music to enable others to find deep meaning in, and be excited by their Jewish lives. By living Jewish values and traditions, I endeavor to cultivate a community that grows together, cries together, and stands up for one another regardless of difference.