Year-in-Israel Cantorial Students Debut Exceptional Final Projects: Three Mini Podcasts Showcasing Diverse Musical Narratives

July 1, 2024

This year’s cantorial students from our Year-in-Israel program debuted their final projects: a mini podcast consisting of music that represented their experiences over the year. They wrote and narrated scripts to guide listeners through their musical stories, reflecting the depth of their learning in cantorial classes and their immersion in Jewish history, text, Hebrew, and Israel. These projects showcase the students’ musical mastery and their ability to creatively integrate their comprehensive studies into their musical narratives.

View All of the Podcasts Here

Alex Baker headshotA Personal Theology Moroccan “Y’did Nefesh”

Alex Baker
Listen to Podcast

 

What does a year in Jerusalem look like?” begins cantorial student Alex Baker as he reflects through song on the year and the broadening of his experience through study. With a thoughtful introduction, Alex leads into a Moroccan rendition of “Y’did Nefesh.” Alex leads on voice and guitar, while Jeremy Sike plays darbuka. He connects the music to a Psalm, setting up the track “Broken Hearted,” by Shir Yaakov Feit. Throughout this podcast, he takes interpretive liberties with the melody giving them a unique touch. His descriptions of Jerusalem, including its taxi drivers, culminate in a poignant Yehuda Amichai quote. The podcast concludes with a familiar Nomi Shemer piece, where Alex’s beautiful phrasing, and nimble piano work by Anastasia Sobolev capture the essence of the images he describes.


Will Brockman headshotHarmonies of Israel: Will Brockman’s Musical Odyssey from Sukkot to Jerusalem

Will Brockman
Listen to Podcast

In his podcast, cantorial student Will Brockman, weaves together his Year-in-Israel experience with the imagery of Sukkot. Reflecting on the current situation in Israel, Will offers a nuanced perspective that exemplifies the unique role of cantors. Through his understanding of Israel’s complexities and his musical talents, Will demonstrates the powerful confluence of music and text.

Mentored by Cantor David Rosen ’03, who encouraged him to apply for this transformative year, Will shares insights and stories that highlight the profound impact of this mentorship. The podcast features a rendition of “Yad B’Yad,” showcasing Anastasia Sobolev’s piano work. This podcast is a testament to the work of cantors and their ability to express deep connections through their art.


Jeremy Sipe headshotVoices of Reflection: Jeremy Sipe’s Musical Journey from Chanukkah to Shabbat

Jeremy Sipe
Listen to Podcast

Cantorial student Jeremy Sipe created a moving and musically rich podcast during his Year-in-Israel.

In this podcast, he reflects on the impact of war on the innocence of children, leading into his rendition of “Etzleinu Bagan.” Jeremy’s narration sets the emotional tone for the song.

Additionally, Jeremy’s collaborated with his fellow Year-in-Israel members. His work on “Ana B’koach,” co-written with Will Brockman and featuring vocals by them and classmate Alex Baker, exemplifies their unity. This piyut, traditionally sung before “L’cha Dodi,” showcases the combined vocals of all three students, offering listeners a profound and spiritual musical experience, particularly in relation to Shabbat.