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Playlist: High Holy Days

Compiled By: PRX Editors

 Credit: <a  href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/vaultboy/">flickr_vaultboy</a>
Image by: flickr_vaultboy 
Curated Playlist

Rosh Hashanah begins on September 29th & Yom Kippur on October 8th!

The following pieces relate specifically to the High Holy Days. PRX has a ton of fabulous material about Jewish History, also appropriate for these holidays. Check out our Jewish History Picks playlist.

Hour (49:00-1:00:00)

Sound the Shofar! An Ancient Instrument in Modern Times

From The WFMT Radio Network | 59:00

The shofar, an instrument made from a ram’s horn, is heard in synagogues all over the world during the Jewish High Holidays. It has also been heard outside those contexts for ages — as a call to battle, or a way for shepherds to summon their flocks. The evocative sounds of the shofar have also captivated many classical composers. Elgar, Bernstein, Gershwin and Golijov are among those who have emulated or included the shofar in their music.

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This special is available free of charge to all affiliate stations and will be available for multiple broadcasts per station from September 1, 2022 to September 30, 2023.

 

The sound of the shofar, to me, it’s like a bridge. It’s extremely organic and earthly. Then at the same time, it seems to open up your mind.”

                                                                Miguel Kertsman

 

“This is hidden in our ancient history, the constant evolving of this deep, dark, and caring sound throughout all types of horns and trumpets and types of instruments.”

                                                            Gergely Sugar 

 

The shofar, a trumpet made from a ram’s horn, has been heard in synagogues all over the world during the Jewish High Holidays since time immemorial. It has also been heard outside those contexts as a call to battle or a way for shepherds to summon their flocks. 

The primeval, evocative sounds of the shofar have captivated many classical composers and its powerful influence shows up in places you might not expect. Elgar, Bernstein, Gershwin, and Golijov have all emulated the shofar in their music, and to this day composers continue to be inspired by its sound and history.

Miguel Kertsman’s new Concerto for Violin, Horn, and Shofar showcases this venerable and influential instrument, and provides the centerpiece of the enlightening one-hour special, Sound the Shofar! An Ancient Instrument in Modern Times.

Join us on an aural journey filled with an abundance of musical examples as we hear from Miguel Kertsman and the musicians who brought his Concerto to life.  Composer Osvaldo Golijov and shofar virtuoso Steven Ovitsky provide insightful commentary about the instrument’s cultural, historical, and musical significance, and Jamie Bernstein shares the direct connection between the shofar and the music in Leonard Bernstein’s West Side Story.

Sound the Shofar! concludes with a glimpse into Miguel Kertsman’s new composition as he pulls back the curtain on his creative process, revealing the secular motivation that inspired him and the sound world he intended to evoke. The hour finishes with a complete performance of the Concerto from the NAXOS debut recording, featuring Gergely Sugar, horn and shofar; Orsolya Korcsolan, violin; and the London Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Dennis Russell Davies.

This special is produced and hosted by WFMT’s award-winning team of Louise Frank and Kerry Frumkin.

Although this special focuses on the secular context of the shofar, this program is an ideal way to herald the Jewish High or at any point during the year.

Stories Make the World

From Claire Schoen | Part of the ILLUMINATIONS: Jewish Culture in the Light of the World series | 59:01

"Stories Make the World" is an hour-long audio documentary celebrating the rich tradition of Jewish storytelling within the context of storytelling from cultures around the world.

Claire Schoen and Corey Fischer – Co-producers.
A Traveling Jewish Theater - Executive Producer.

Corey_small

"Stories Make the World" is an hour-long audio documentary celebrating the rich tradition of Jewish storytelling within the context of storytelling from cultures around the world.

Claire Schoen and Corey Fischer – Co-producers
A Traveling Jewish Theater - Executive Producer

When a 4th grade class was asked "What would happen if there were no stories?" A young girl responded, "If there were no stories, there would be no world. Stories make the world." This program, "Stories Make the World" looks at how societies use storytelling to define culture and to make sense of the world we live in. Judaism has a rich storytelling tradition. This program is full of wonderful tales from around the world, both Jewish and others. These stories not only explore the cultural roots of the societies they come from, but also show how stories can help people speak to one another across traditions. (Each of the 3 shows in this series can be broadcast as stand-alone programs.)

Musical Memories of the High Holidays with Itzhak Perlman

From WQXR | 58:34

For Itzhak Perlman, the Jewish High Holidays – Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur – bring a flood of memories, many of them associated with music. In this one-hour special, the superstar violinist shares a wide variety of recordings that have special meaning for him, including several of his own performances. Ranging from classical gems to cantorial singing to raucous klezmer fiddling, the music will spark warm associations and an emotional response for all listeners.

Wqxr_logo_nofreq_small For Itzhak Perlman, the Jewish High Holidays – Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur – bring a flood of memories, many of them associated with music. In this one-hour special, the superstar violinist shares a wide variety of recordings that have special meaning for him, including several of his own performances. Ranging from classical gems to cantorial singing to raucous klezmer fiddling, the music will spark warm associations and an emotional response for all listeners.

Jewish Philosophy

From Philosophy Talk | 54:00

Is Jewish philosophy more about Judaism or about universal philosophical issues?

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Rabbis and Talmudic scholars have spent centuries puzzling over theology, texts, and life.  In the process they came up with many philosophical ideas that have inspired the work of more recent philosophers such as Martin Buber and Emmanuel Levinas.  Who or what is God?  By what rules should people live?  And what does Maimonides have to say about diets and bathing?  John and Ken investigate the past, present, and future of Jewish philosophy with Paul Franks from the University of Toronto, author of All or Nothing: Skepticism, Transcendental Arguments and Systematicity in German Idealism.

The Birthday of The World Part I, Rosh Hashanah

From William Zukof | Part of the The Western Wind Judaica Series series | 58:53

Music and Liturgy for Rosh Hashanah, (The Jewish New Year) Sung by The Western Wind with Guest Cantors, Narrated by Leonard Nimoy.

Rh2_small THE BIRTHDAY OF THE WORLD MUSIC AND TRADITIONS OF THE HIGH HOLY DAYS PART I: ROSH HASHANAH PART II: YOM KIPPUR Sung by The Western Wind Narrated by Leonard Nimoy In this classic performance, Leonard Nimoy and The Western Wind Vocal Ensemble join forces to explore the rich and profound musical and spiritual traditions of the Jewish High Holy Days. The Birthday of the World presents some of the most inspiring music in the Jewish liturgical tradition, performed by the acclaimed vocal ensemble The Western Wind. Mr. Nimoy's timeless narration focuses on the universal themes of redemption and divine forgiveness. "Sung by The Western Wind Vocal Ensemble with outstanding cantors, this is an ideal High Holy Days service with a splendid narration by Leonard Nimoy, the performance is outstanding for the beauty of its artistry."-Hadassah Magazine SCHEDULING SUGGESTIONS In 2008, Rosh Hashanah begins Monday night, September 29 and continues on September 30 and October 1. Yom Kippur which begins with the "Kol Nidre" service, starts just before sundown on Thursday night, October 9 and ends just after sundown on October 10. It would be appropriate to play the Rosh Hashanah show (Birthday of the World, Part I) as early as 9/21 and up to 10/1 and to air the Yom Kippur show (Birthday of the World, Part II) from as early as 10/6 and through 10/10. It is also appropriate to play both programs as a two-hour special anytime between September 30 and October 10.

The Birthday of The World, Part II: Yom Kippur

From William Zukof | Part of the The Western Wind Judaica Series series | 59:32

Music and Liturgy of Yom Kippur sung by The Western Wind Narrated by Leonard Nimoy.

Yk_small THE BIRTHDAY OF THE WORLD MUSIC AND TRADITIONS OF THE HIGH HOLY DAYS PART I: ROSH HASHANAH PART II: YOM KIPPUR Sung by The Western Wind Narrated by Leonard Nimoy In these classic performances, Leonard Nimoy and The Western Wind Vocal Ensemble join forces to explore the rich and profound musical and spiritual traditions of the Jewish High Holy Days. The Birthday of the World presents some of the most inspiring music in the Jewish liturgical tradition, performed by the acclaimed vocal ensemble The Western Wind. Mr. Nimoy's timeless narration focuses on the universal themes of redemption and divine forgiveness. "Sung by The Western Wind Vocal Ensemble with outstanding cantors, this is an ideal High Holy Days service with a splendid narration by Leonard Nimoy, the performance is outstanding for the beauty of its artistry."-Hadassah Magazine SCHEDULING SUGGESTIONS THE BIRTHDAY OF THE WORLD MUSIC AND TRADITIONS OF THE HIGH HOLY DAYS PART I: ROSH HASHANAH PART II: YOM KIPPUR Sung by The Western Wind Narrated by Leonard Nimoy In this classic performance, Leonard Nimoy and The Western Wind Vocal Ensemble join forces to explore the rich and profound musical and spiritual traditions of the Jewish High Holy Days. The Birthday of the World presents some of the most inspiring music in the Jewish liturgical tradition, performed by the acclaimed vocal ensemble The Western Wind. Mr. Nimoy's timeless narration focuses on the universal themes of redemption and divine forgiveness. "Sung by The Western Wind Vocal Ensemble with outstanding cantors, this is an ideal High Holy Days service with a splendid narration by Leonard Nimoy, the performance is outstanding for the beauty of its artistry."-Hadassah Magazine SCHEDULING SUGGESTIONS In 2008, Rosh Hashanah begins Monday night, September 29. and continues on September 30 and 31. Yom Kippur which begins with the "Kol Nidre" service, starts just before sundown on Thursday night, October 9 and ends just after sundown on October 10. It would be appropriate to play the Rosh Hashanah show (Birthday of the World, Part I) as early as 9/21 and up to 10/1 and to air the Yom Kippur show (Birthday of the World, Part II) from as early as 10/6 and through 10/10. It is also appropriate to play both programs as a two-hour special anytime between September 31 and October 10.

Remember Us Unto Life: A High Holy Days Special

From RadioArt(r) | 58:59

Host Larry Josephson talks with Rabbi Ismar Schorsch, Chancellor of the Jewish Theological Seminary, about the history, liturgy and customs of the Jewish High Holy Days, and the value of these ancient rituals in the modern age.

Rabbi___larry_2_small The Jewish High Holy Days are the most solemn time on the Jewish calendar. The ten-day period between Rosh Hashanah (The Jewish New Year) and Yom Kippur (the Day of Atonement) are a period of renewal and reflection. Larry Josephson talks with Rabbi Ismar Schorsch, Chancellor Emeritus of the Jewish Theological Seminary, about the history, liturgy and customs of the High Holy Days, and the value of these ancient rituals in the modern age. Music appropriate to the High Holy Days is interspersed throughout. NOTE: Program updated for 2009.

The Jewish New Year: Music and Inspirational Teachings from the Kabbalah

From Russ Jennings | Part of the Days of Wonder series | 59:49

Music and teachings from the Jewish mystical tradition on the High Holy Days.

Shofar_small Each year, on the evening of the new moon, the beginning of the month of Tishrei in the Jewish lunar calendar, Jewish people around the world begin a period of prayer and self-examination that ends, ten days later, with a twenty-four hour fast. These are the High Holy Days, beginning with Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, and ending with Yom Kippur, the day of atonement. These days are a time to reflect on the past year and to realign life with truth and wisdom, to prepare for a new year?s challenges. In this program, Kabbalistic teacher, therapist, and author of "Sacred Therapy," Estelle Frankel and Cantor Richard Kaplan share the depths of insight accumulated by the Jewish mystical tradition of the Kabbalah. They discuss the insights in stories, teachings and music, gathered from that rich tradition. ?The Jewish New Year: Music and Inspirational Teachings from the Kabbalah? is part of Common Soul Productions? occasional series, ?Days of Wonder,? programs exploring the universal-spiritual meaning of the world's holy-days. Note: This program was originally offered in 2004, with the title, ?Mystical Fusion: An inspirational program for the Jewish New Year.? No significant changes have been made to its content. If your station has a copy of last year?s program, please contact Common Soul Productions to receive the re-titled program on CD.


Half-Hour (24:00-30:00)

Music for Yom Kippur

From WGUC/ WVXU | 29:05

This program commemorates Yom Kippur with traditional melodies and classical music.

Default-piece-image-2 Highlighting the spiritual and cultural significance of the Jewsih High Holy Days, this program commemorates Yom Kippur with traditional melodies and classical music. Performers include Richard Tucker, tenor; Ofra Harnoy, cello; The London Philharmonic; Miriam Kramer, violin; and Simon Over, piano.

Music for Rosh Hashanah

From WGUC/ WVXU | 29:02

Highlighting the spiritual and cultural significance of the Jewish High Holy Days, this program celebrates Rosh Hashanah with traditional melodies and classical music selections by Bloch and Handel.

Default-piece-image-2 Highlighting the spiritual and cultural significance of the Jewish High Holy Days, this program celebrates Rosh Hashanah with traditional melodies and classical music selections by Bloch and Handel. Performers include harpist Rachel Van Voorhees, soprano Stacy Lowe, violinist Lisa Rautenberg, and the Western Wind.


Cutaways (5:00-8:59)

Holy Land Tour

From Jake Warga | 13:27

Never before aired! PRX exclusive!
A personal tour through the Holy Land, looking at how the conflict started and what it's like today between Jerusalem and Bethlehem...between birth and re-birth.

Also a slideshow:
http://hearingvoices.com/news/2009/12/holy-land-tour/
or
http://vimeo.com/8037836

Playing
Holy Land Tour
From
Jake Warga

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A narrated audio-rich trip through the holy land exploring the modern state of Christmas.  Between Jerusalem and Bethlehem, between Easter and Christmas, there is a modern and yet ancient wall.  In my travels I explore the origins of the conflict, all the way back to Abraham:

 

"...The name “Isaac” means “He Laughs”  His laughter and blood becomes David’s...A lineage dripping with laughter, but blood is mixed with tears.  Ishmael, the name, means “He Weeps”  The brother of Isaac, the brother of Laughter, weeps to this day...

...In Jerusalem, religions compete to see which can get you up the earliest. Call to prayers from loud speakers in minarets try to beat the roosters. Then come wake-up bells from churches.  Not even an Atheist can over-sleep in the holy land. "

Video:

http://hearingvoices.com/news/2009/12/holy-land-tour/
or
http://vimeo.com/8037836

The Itinerant Rabbi

From Philip Graitcer | 05:40

Deborah Kassoff works for the Institute of Southern Jewish Life and every Friday she packs her car and drives to towns like Natchez, Meridian, to provide religious services to congregations too small to have a rabbi of their own.

Kassoff_small Deborah Kassoff works for the Institute of Southern Jewish Life and every Friday she packs her car and drives to towns like Natchez, Meridian, Clarksdale, and New Iberia. Kassoff is a traveling rabbi, and she provides religious services to congregations too small to have a rabbi of their own. Although she always thought she?d take a more traditional pulpit, but during an assignment as a student rabbi in Greenville, Mississippi, she fell in love with the South. She was drawn to the challenge to serve communities that are outside the Jewish mainstream and to way that intensity of Southerners? religious beliefs.


Drop-Ins (2:00-4:59)

The Prince of Kosher Gospel

From Alex Goldmark | 04:14

Joshua Nelson, a proud African-American-Jew, explains how he fuses the soul music he loved as a boy with the sometimes dreary liturgical songs of his Jewish faith.

Default-piece-image-2 Joshua Nelson, a proud African-American-Jew, explains how he fuses the soul music he loved as a boy with the sometimes dreary liturgical songs of his Jewish faith. He sure can spice up a service, just have a listen to the music he makes.

Why the Shofar Matters on the Jewish High Holy Days

From Interfaith Voices | 01:56

A 2 minute portrait of the shofar, a sacred instrument made from a ram's horn. It's an essential part of services on Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur.

This piece is short and sweet, and includes a nice demonstration of the blowing of the shofar.

Web_shofar_small INTRO: The sound that defines Rosh Hashanah [note- also Yom Kippur, Oct. 7] is the wail of the shofar.  Virgina Rabbi Jack Moline explains why it’s such an important part of the Jewish high holy days.

OUTRO: Jack Moline is the head rabbi at the Agudas Achim Congregation in Alexandria, Virginia. He spoke to Laura Kwerel, the producer of Interfaith Voices radio show.  This year, Rosh Hashanah begins at sundown on Wednesday, Sept. 28. OR This year, Yom Kippur begins at sundown Friday, Oct. 7.

**Note- this is part of a larger series on religious sounds, the Soundscapes of Faith, which I'll upload soon. The series won 2 awards in 2009; more here: http://interfaithradio.org/soundscapes