Album Notes

Abby Bernstein Gostein’s compositions are crafted to be both moving and accessible, with memorable melodies and contemporary harmonies. They are intended to be flexible in nature, and easily usable by cantor or soloist, congregation or choir. Her works have been sung throughout the United States and internationally. Gostein began composing Jewish liturgical music in 1986, at which time she began a long-term involvement with Jewish musical leadership, from youth group and summer camp songleading to choral conducting, music teaching, and leading congregations in song and prayer. Gostein has served congregations as Cantorial Soloist since 1994 and currently serves in that capacity for Temple Beth Shalom in Austin, Texas. She holds an M.A. from The University of Texas at Austin and a B.A. from Yale University, where she organized and led the first Jewish singing group on campus. She is a member of ASCAP, the Guild of Temple Musicians, and the Women Cantorsʼ Network.