Ahavat Olam

In this setting of “Ahavat Olam” for cantor, choir and accompaniment, composer Aminadav Aloni (1928 - 1999) has adapted a familiar musical theme - the miSinai melody that infuses the s evening service on Rosh Hashannah and Yom Kippur. The melody may not be immediately obvious during the earliest moments of the setting; in fact, the selection opens with a countermelody to the familiar tune, only hinting at the traditional material in the accompaniment. However, as the passage draws to a close, the concluding text and the final blessing triumphantly (and traditionally) intone the time-honored melody.In many ways, Aloni’s setting summarizes all the possible permutations of American synagogue music and offers “something for everyone.” The cantor and choir lead, but the congregation sings along; the treatment is fresh and contemporary; but the “tune” is as traditional, universal and accessible as any in the Ashkenazic liturgy.

Adapted from Discovering Jewish Music by Dr. Marsha Bryan Edelman, Professor of Music and Education at Gratz College (Philadelphia, Jewish Publication Society, 2003)

Simcha L’artzecha

The Diaspora Yeshiva Band is well known for its utilization of vibrant musical idioms to promote their message of commitment to traditional Jewish observance. In this selection, “Simcha L’artzecha,” composer Avraham Rosenblum has excerpted text from the High Holy Day amidah which joyously exhorts God to grant happiness to His land and the speedy arrival of the Messiah. This upbeat, neo-Hasidic tune provides a lively counterpoint to the usual solemnity of the High Holy Day liturgy, appropriately celebrating the “birthday of the world” and the opportunity for a new beginning that is available to each of us in the New Year.