audio by artist eleanor glantz

Or Zarua (Ben Steinberg) [Excerpt]

0:45 minutes (530.04 KB)

This contemporary and imminently singable setting of Or Zarua by Ben Steinberg soars and sparkles in its simplicity. Adapted piano accompaniment by Peter Pundy.

Kol Nidrei (Traditional, arr. Louis Lewandowski) [Excerpt]

0:54 minutes (633.51 KB)

Synonymous with Erev Yom Kippur, this pivotal selection is traditionally heard three times before the opening service of this most important moment of the Jewish liturgical year. Lewandowski's arrangement is similarly traditional, proceeding simply, respectfully, and yet challenging the vocalist to personally meet the demands of the music and the occasion.

Adonai Roi (Benjamin Maissner) [Excerpt]

0:43 minutes (504.94 KB)

This wistful and longing version of Adonai Roi was created in traditional unaccompanied form by Canadian Cantor Benjamin Maissner.

May the Words (Max Janowski) [Excerpt]

0:39 minutes (463 KB)

In his music to this English language version of the Psalm 19 text, Janowski artfully combines contrasting musical moods, showing both doubtful introspection and earnest resolve. The emotional arc presented almost personifies a struggle between the human ego and divine will, ending finally, and successfully, in sublime surrender with the final "Amen".

Hashiveinu (Jeffrey Klepper, arr. Peter Pundy after Mary Feinsinger) [Excerpt]

0:45 minutes (534.94 KB)

The music ideas in Feinsinger's arrangement of Klepper's Hashiveinu are brought to a stunning completion by arranger Peter Pundy. From the metaphorical bells that instantly establish a mood of intimate mystery at the opening, to the contemporary and rhythmic drive that supports the vocal line soaring "chadeish yameinu k'kedem", this gem sparkles in your ears and soul only to come to its wistful close, leaving you literally longing for the final return [to G-d] sought by the prayer.

Invocation (Herbert Fromm) [Excerpt]

0:40 minutes (473.41 KB)

A monumental prayer in English to the "G-d of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob", Herbert Fromm's song Invocation expresses itself in aural images of epic cinematic grandeur.

Avinu Malkeinu (Max Janowski) [Excerpt]

0:56 minutes (660.15 KB)

With ever increasing determination and abandon, this Janowski setting of Avinu Malkeinu cries out the prayerful request for compassion, divine aid and favor in making the world a better place.

Avot V'imahot (Adolph Katchko, arr. Mary Feinsinger) [Excerpt]

0:38 minutes (450.76 KB)

This setting of the Avot V'imahot by Adolph Katchko (arranged by Mary Feinsinger) strikes a wonderful balance between the contemporary and traditional. With obvious reference to cantorial melodic tradition and dramatic pace, the inclusion of the matriarchs and a supportive piano accompaniment allow a connection with current times as well.

Mi Yitneini (Bob Remstein) [Excerpt]

0:34 minutes (401.47 KB)

Bob Remstein's contemporary yet tasteful musical setting of this text perfectly captures the needs of the Yom Kippur afternoon service moment. The soothing and introspective refrain, punctuated by increasingly powerful motifs, invites all to enter and humbly consider their relationship with G-d.

Sim Shalom (Michael Issacson) [Excerpt]

0:52 minutes (613.62 KB)

Michael Issacson's popular contemporary arrangement of Sim Shalom expresses itself through the sweet simplicity of the solo line that at the same time beams richness, warmth, and peacefulness over top a constantly flowing accompaniment.

Tavo L'fanecha (Max Loewenstamm) [Excerpt]

0:38 minutes (445.86 KB)

The serious subject of Tavo L'fanecha is reflected in this tradition-inspired Max Loewenstamm setting. The music pleads along with the text, confronting and modeling the personal challenge of confessing our transgressions.

Avinu Malkeinu (Traditional, arr. Stephen Richards) [Excerpt]

0:28 minutes (335.66 KB)

In this version of Avinu Malkeinu, Stephen Richards set the traditional melody and text with an intriguing Sephardic-inspired accompaniment yielding a combination full of complex character.

Adonai Mah Adam (Max Janowski) [Excerpt]

0:48 minutes (568.31 KB)

From the opening sighs of piano to the final wailing call for repentance, this powerful and intense setting of Adonai Mah Adam by Max Janowski evokes a seriousness and solemnity appropriate to Yiskor, particularly on Yom Kippur.

Yism'chu (Robbie Solomon) [Excerpt]

0:31 minutes (362.9 KB)

Robbie Solomon's musical setting of Yism'chu overflows with energy and traditional celebration of Shabbat sentiments, complete with flourishing cantorial interlude. Adapted piano arrangement by Peter Pundy.