Album Notes

This CD represents a milestone in the life of our vibrant young organization, Shalshelet. With the hard work and dedication of many talented people, the First International Festival of New Jewish Liturgical Music became a reality. The concert and workshops drew hundreds of people - composers, musicians, professional cantors, lay leaders, and music enthusiasts - united by a passion for Jewish music and a respect for the beloved texts that continue to inspire new melodies and fresh creativity.

The music on this CD reflects the exuberance and excitement that surrounded us so fully at the Shalshelet Festival: the joy of the performers in bringing these songs to life, the enthusiasm and delight of the audience, and even the pride of the composers in having their music chosen for the Festival. It was and is a privilege to share these compositions with a wider audience.

A companion songbook that includes all of the compositions from the First International Festival is available at our website (see Links, below). Tell us you bought the CD and receive a discount on the Songbook.

Shalshelet's Third International Festival takes place June 13 to 16, 2008 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.