Since the Renaissance, Jews have risen to prominence in art music. This lesson explores the intersection of Western Art Music and Jewish music, and the influence it has had on the sound of synagogue worship. Through this class, the learner will understand that:
- Music of the synagogue reflects the intersection where our Jewish identity and our experience as members of American society come together.
- Jewish identity is fluid, reflecting an ongoing negotiation between the Jewish community and the surrounding host culture.
- How we define ourselves both as Jews and as members of the host culture influences the “sound” of the synagogue.