Album Notes

The unusual quality and rare warmth of his voice and the sensitive interpretation of a wide variety of Yiddish, Hebrew and liturgical music, as well as a keen understanding of the art of songs of the masters of Western music, have made Reuven Frankel a favorite concert performer in may parts of this country. He has also appeared on radio, television and at universities as a singer and lecturer.

Reuven Frankel arrived from Israel in 1939 and received most of his Jewish, general and musical training in this country. In addition to his Rabbinical training and ordination, he holds an A.B. and a Masters of Music degree from Wayne State University. He served as Assistant Cantor of Congregation Shaarey Tzedek in Southfield, Michigan from 1957 - 1967, as Cantor of Temple Israel, in Albany, New York for two years, and as Cantor of Congregation Beth El, in Highland Park, Illinois, from 1970 - 1978. After his Rabbinical Ordination, he served as Rabbi of Congregation B'nai Tikvah in Deerfield, Illinois, from 1979 until his retirement in 1999.

Beautiful and moving... [Frankel's] interpretation of the Yiddish song is among the best I have heard.
Elie Wiesel

Rabbi Frankel sings simple zemirot and Friday evening prayers with a purity of tone and a clarity of devotion and expression that personifies the true spirit of "ne-ima."
The Cantors Voice, review

From the very first number, a feeling of Shabbat menuchah descends upon you, and the whole is done with excellent taste. His voice: supple and resonant.
Hazzan Kouis Klein

The terms "tasteful" and "neshama," along with high musicianship, characterize not only the performances, but also the range of selections which includes music from a variety of sourcs and traditions. This is Jewish music for all time.
Morton Gold, Jewish Post and Opinion

I expected refinement, elegance,authenticity and thoughtfulness, and was not disappointed.
Hazzan Samuel Rosenbaum

An exquisite summation of the joy and delight of the Sabbath, beautifully sung by Reuven Frankel and exceptionally accompanied by Gerald Rizzer... A sensitive and extremely refined musicality is always in evidence here. The arrangements by Mr. Rizzer are striking. They elevate these zermirot to the level of the art song.
Hazzan Charles Davidson

Reuven Frankel merits our gratitude for sharing his dual talents, vocal and creative, through the vehicle of his marvelous tape. As a teaching tool, it is invaluable; as artistry it is wholly satisfying.
The Cantors Voice, review

Family Shabbat is delightful.
Hazzan Max Wholberg