The variety of styles with the dazzling performance of cellist Adrian Daurov and soulful interpretation of Jewish liturgical music by Cantor Inna Serebro-Litvak makes this recording a true gem.
My Reflections
I was exposed to Synagogue music from a young age. My first voice teacher was a Hazzan (Cantor) of the St. Petersburg Synagogue, in Russia, and my lessons were often held in its magnificent 19th century building. As the Iron Curtain fell during “Perestrojka,” concerts of Jewish music were often held in the sanctuary of the Synagogue, where acoustics could carry a sound of a dropped pin. I distinctly remember a cantorial concert of hazzanim from all over the world. The singing of sacred music penetrated my heart and my soul. Since then, I always wanted to sing Synagogue repertoire, not knowing back then that although forbidden by the Orthodox, women could become cantors in the Reform and Conservative movements. My dream finally came true and I became a cantor. Although the days of long “recitatives” had passed, I have the opportunity during the High Holidays to chant some of the pieces that date back to the Golden Age of Hazzanut. This CD is the collection of liturgical music for voice and cello from composers of 19th Century to modern days. For me, it is not just a performance, but a way to express myself in prayer through the sound of music. This CD is a tribute to my people, my religion and to my God.
Cantor Inna Serebro - Litvak
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