Berliners say New York's Rebecca Garfein is causing a revival of Reform Judaism in Germany; this mezzo-soprano is making history with her music, recorded in the country where her great -grandmother perished in the Holocaus... more »t. In 1997, she became the first female cantor to sing in a synagogue in Germany; where she performed as part of Berlin's International Jewish Cultural Festival; and this exquisite 1998 release captures that ground - (and stained-glass ceiling) - breaking moment. It contains Jewish songs and prayers in Hebrew and Yiddish, selections from the Book of Ruth and Song of Songs - liturgical music previously only chanted my male clergy - operatic in character, performed in what was once the women's gallery in the Oranienburger Strasse Synagogue before its destruction. This live performance was attended by Jews and non-Jews, women and men, together, shattering the historical separation of faiths and genders. Beautiful, significant, and highly recommended!« less
Berliners say New York's Rebecca Garfein is causing a revival of Reform Judaism in Germany; this mezzo-soprano is making history with her music, recorded in the country where her great -grandmother perished in the Holocaust. In 1997, she became the first female cantor to sing in a synagogue in Germany; where she performed as part of Berlin's International Jewish Cultural Festival; and this exquisite 1998 release captures that ground - (and stained-glass ceiling) - breaking moment. It contains Jewish songs and prayers in Hebrew and Yiddish, selections from the Book of Ruth and Song of Songs - liturgical music previously only chanted my male clergy - operatic in character, performed in what was once the women's gallery in the Oranienburger Strasse Synagogue before its destruction. This live performance was attended by Jews and non-Jews, women and men, together, shattering the historical separation of faiths and genders. Beautiful, significant, and highly recommended!
CD Reviews
Not at all what I expected
Ana_y_lat | Houston, TX | 01/21/2006
(1 out of 5 stars)
"Hmm... Ok, maybe it was not the best reason to want to buy this CD, but I heard one of the songs on it, Hashkiveynu, performed (partially) during an episode of the West Wing, and it sounded AMAZING (it was NOT the same cantor as on this CD). I am not Jewish and not even very spiritual, but I wanted to have that song in my collection.
I immediately searched the web for the info, got the name of the chant and found this CD. I almost purchased it without listening, when I found a different site, where they actually have rather long excerpts (2 min.) of most tracks, so I listened to them.
Boy, was I relieved and disappointed at once! Relieved that I didn't buy the CD and disappointed that I couldn't get the song I wanted (I was willing to buy a whole CD for just 1 song, that's how much it impressed me).
The song sounds very little like the one from the West Wing, although I do believe that the site where I found the info speficially pointed to this CD as having a recording of the same song used in the show. And I'm sorry to say it but the voice also doesn't hold a candle to the one used on the show - way too "operatic", as mentioned by many, and harsh and even unpleasant-sounding to me. It took all the charm and candor right out of the song (in the show, they had a much more natural voice do the song). I also agree that the choir does not mesh well with the soloist.
If anyone knows where and if I can purchase a recording of this song done by a different singer (if it can be the one from the West Wing, I'll be thrilled), please, let me know. In the meantime, I'm passing on this CD..."
Gorgeous!
Jerrold S. Cooper | Baltimore, MD USA | 05/02/2002
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Garfein's gorgeous voice interprets a largely unknown repertoire of first-rate reform Jewish liturgical music, with a few old favorites tossed in as a bonus. There are moments so sublime here that I shiver each time I hear them. Not to be missed!"
A True Gem of the Reform Movement
G. Babes | Bronx, NY USA | 12/13/2003
(5 out of 5 stars)
"For those listeners who want to understand the significance of the Reform movement, this CD is for you. What some of negative reviewers lack is a perspective of the Reform movement. Cantor Garfein eloquently chants the prayers of a movement that was heavily influenced by the secular world and the desire to assimilate. This music is a necessary part to understanding the history of Diaspora Judaism. This is Jewish performance music at its finest. Kol ha'kavod!"
Sacred Chants Moves the Soul
Bailey Condrey, Jr. | Vienna, Virginia | 04/13/2000
(5 out of 5 stars)
"According to Rabbi Steven Franklin of Riverdale, NY, "Cantor Garfein is not only blessed with a voice which is truly a magnificent instrument, but she possesses impeccable musical taste and truly believes that music is a pathway to the Divine."Regardless of your theological faith, the sound of Rebecca Garfein's voice will free you momentarily from the cares and concerns that make all of us a little grumpy at times.Her voice seems to break free of the CD and wraps your soul in peace. This collection of 16 Jewish prayers and songs are made more ethereal by Cantor Garfein.Any serious lover of classical music should add this CD to their collection. I have heard Rebecca perform in person. If you have the opportunity to see this mezzo soprano, don't forsake the chance to lighten your step."
Wonderful, I highly recommend !
Sharon Blumenstock | Boston, MA USA | 12/07/2003
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I highly recommend this CD filled with sacred chants . Cantor Garfein's voice is wonderful and this album is filled with spirituality and soul. A fabulous CD to give as a gift this Hanukkah season !"
Track Listings (17) - Disc #1