Along with most of the Jewish community, we have all been trying to figure out how to preserve the meaning and engagement of the upcoming High Holy Days while ensuring public safety during the current pandemic. Specifically, how can we maintain many of the special musical settings that are a traditional and beloved component of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur Services?
Leveraging over 30 years as a cantor and professional musician, Stephen Saxon has started CantorSaxon.Com to make available pre-recorded video and audio materials for the High Holy Days that can be easily integrated into online services.
Our collection focuses on the central pieces that are traditionally presented by a cantor with choir: Kol Nidrei, Un'tane Tokef, Avinu Malkeinu, Hin'ni, the Shofar Service, etc.
These could even be used for in-person services to provide completely safe, yet musically full settings for the Days of Awe to create a more engaging and uplifting experience during this extraordinary time.
These resources are designed to enhance and assist, not to replace the clergy of any congregation.
It is not a question of whether this is "the same as" being together in person.
It's not.
Our goal is to make it possible for any congregation to present services that can maintain the more beautiful and full-featured character we've all come to expect from the season, while allowing each Cantor and Rabbi to lead online and/or socially distanced services with their own unique style and community focus.
These materials may be purchased for use individually or as a collection. In addition, we are available for consulting on the technical aspects of integrating them most effectively for online or streaming services for those who may need some support with that.
If it's not already playing (Chrome browser), you can click or touch the Play icon on the embedded player above to see and hear some of what we're talking about.
For information about rates and repertoire that will be available in time for services, please send an email at the Contact link below.
If you know of any congregations or Jewish community organizations that might be interested in these resources, please help us spread the word.