The 11th Annual Shabbat Chazzanut at Park East Synagogue in New York, held on Feb. 7-8, was an unforgettable experience, bringing together lovers of cantorial music for a weekend of unparalleled spiritual and musical enrichment. This exceptional event showcased the power of liturgical music, creating a profound atmosphere of prayer, reflection and community.
Rabbi Arthur Schneier, senior rabbi of Park East Synagogue, warmly welcomed visitors who traveled from London, New York, New Jersey and beyond to experience this exceptional Shabbat Shira and chazzanut event. He underscored the importance of unity and supporting communities in times of need. Expressing profound sorrow, he described the Oct. 7 tragedy as a “second Holocaust,” something he never imagined witnessing in his lifetime. He passionately called for a global fight against antisemitism.
Concluding his remarks, Schneier expressed heartfelt gratitude to all attendees for participating in this extraordinary chazzanut event, which he praised as “a musical and spiritual experience beyond even the grandeur of the Metropolitan Opera.” The rabbi also extended his sincere thanks to the event’s sponsors: Harvey and Audrey Feuerstein, Louis and Eva Galpern, Steven and Rachel German, and Judy Lefkovits, whose generous support made this special evening possible.
Under the expert direction of Chief Cantor Yitzchak Meir Helfgott, congregants were treated to an extraordinary display of cantorial artistry. Helfgott’s powerful, emotive voice filled the sanctuary, elevating the liturgy with his stunning renditions of traditional chazzanut. His performances were both technically flawless and deeply moving, resonating with profound spiritual depth and bringing a new dimension to the Shabbat prayers.
Joining Helfgott was Israel Rand, a renowned Israeli cantor celebrated for his performances in both cantorial music and opera. Together, they delivered a captivating musical experience, their voices blending harmoniously to create an unforgettable moment for all in attendance.
The highlight of the weekend was the Shabbat Shira, a celebration of the transformative power of sacred music. The Park East Synagogue Choir, led by Maestro Yossi Schwartz, delivered an awe-inspiring performance that elevated the entire experience. The choir’s stunning harmonies, intricate arrangements, and seamless blending of traditional Jewish melodies with contemporary sounds added a unique and captivating layer to the event. Under Schwartz’s guidance, the choir’s renditions were celebrated for their emotive power and technical precision, capturing the hearts of all present.
The choir has become an essential part of Park East Synagogue’s religious services, particularly on Shabbat and Jewish holidays. Its involvement in this special event demonstrated its vital role in enhancing the spiritual experience for congregants, offering both Ashkenazi and Sephardic tunes with remarkable artistry.
Beyond the music, the event fostered a deep sense of community. Congregants, whether long-time members or newcomers, were welcomed with warmth and hospitality, enjoying beautifully catered Shabbat meals that provided a space for meaningful connections and shared joy. The atmosphere was one of unity, as the weekend brought people together to celebrate their shared love of Jewish tradition and cantorial music.
Rabbi Daniel Friedman, the acting associate rabbi of Park East Synagogue, is renowned for his insightful and engaging teachings, particularly through his “Torah Call Up” series, where he creatively brings parsha characters to life, making their stories and lessons more relatable and impactful. His unique approach blends deep Torah wisdom with a fresh and dynamic perspective, allowing listeners to connect with the text on a profound level.
During the Shabbat dinner, he delivered a thought-provoking and compelling dvar Torah titled “Mar-a-La-Gaza.” With eloquence and depth, he drew powerful parallels between contemporary events and timeless Torah themes, offering a fresh lens through which to understand current challenges. His words resonated deeply with the audience, sparking meaningful discussion and reflection on faith, resilience and the enduring relevance of Torah in today’s world.
The 11th Annual Shabbat Chazzanut at Park East Synagogue was a remarkable celebration of Jewish musical heritage, leaving all who attended with a sense of spiritual upliftment and a renewed appreciation for the beauty of Shabbat. It was truly a weekend to remember, one that continues to resonate in the hearts of congregants long after the final notes were sung.
A special thanks to Cantor Benny Rogosnitzky, world-renowned cantor, lecturer and teacher, warmly known as “Cantor Benny,” for inviting us to be a part of this unforgettable event.
