FALL 2011 Women Cantors’ Network Robin Anne Joseph, President Gail F. Nalven, Editor

From the President’s Pockets “If you’re not hitting some wrong notes, you’re probably not playing hard enough.” ~John Coltrane, jazz saxophonist

I play hard. As is evident from the sprain and fracture I sustained on my left foot due to a poorly played ground ball in a softball game just mere days after the WCN Conference this year. I don’t always injure myself when I play ball, but I play not worrying about whether I will. I think about this as we approach another New Year. Have I hit some wrong notes? Have I been playing hard enough? It’s interesting to think that the two might be intertwined—that giving it my all may not necessarily result in the “right notes”, but rather some other unintentioned sound. And that these “wrong notes” might just be the outcome that indicates that we’re living our lives to the fullest. My rabbi has told a story about a time when he facetiously told his piano tuner that he didn’t have to tune the whole piano, only whatever notes were needed to play the four songs from Les Miserables that he knows. The tuner responded, “No, I’ll need to tune all of them, because when you play those four songs, you may hit some wrong notes.” We may hit some wrong notes this year, yet they may have been by-products of all the right notes that we have tried so hard to play. I think that as long as we’re playing our hardest, all of our life’s notes will be imbued with meaning. May you all have a good, sweet, and meaningful New Year!

-Robin Anne Joseph

Clockwise: Lisa B. Segal, Arlyne Unger, Ellen Allard & Abby Gostein, Judy Ribnick, Monday morning Torah Reading, outside the museum in Philadelphia PAGE 1 FALL 2011 PHILADELPHIA CONFERENCE WRAP-UP Shir Ha’pa’amon Rings Out at the ready. Standing on the second level, Rosenzweig and Curator Josh National Museum of American overlooking the Museum’s atrium, with Perelman. In the first of several Jewish History Lori on the stairs above, and Abby mystical occurrences this day, Mr. by Laura Lewis Mandeles Gostein on guitar, the voices of the Rosenzweig informed us that museum It is safe to say that we are all Women Cantors Network truly “rang attendance was unusually high this day, still kvelling at the thought of the out” for everyone in the museum to which just happened to be the day of WCN performance of Lori Sumberg’s hear. The experience of singing Lori’s the first musical performance in the commissioned composition at the new composition in that space was museum. NMAJH. If you haven’t seen it yet, or memorable—our voices filled it We then gathered on the if you would just like to see it again, completely. second floor balcony for the click here: http://www.facebook.com/ And, of course, performance. Lori shouted over the video/video.php?v=10150651153065287. we ended with a crowd of museum guests to explain her We had one hour on “shehecheyanu” inspiration for this composition, giving Monday, June 13th, to learn Lori’s that really raised voice to the Liberty Bell which has wonderful piece, ”Shir Ha’pa’amon.” the rafters. been sitting silently for over 200 years, Lori spent the first few minutes Philadelphia’s just across from the museum. describing the piece and how she public radio Following our performance, we treated thought about her assignment from the station, WHYY, museum guests to a Shehecheyanu, Commissioning Committee, which was was there and Siman Tov U-mazel tov, and spontaneous to write a piece of choral music for broadcast a story dancing. women’s voices built on the words that very Now we were free to inscribed on the Liberty Bell: “We evening. explore the museum. Each floor is proclaim liberty throughout the land It was a spiritual and devoted to a period of the history of and to all the inhabitants thereof,” musical highlight of the conference Jews in America, starting in 1654. At an Leviticus 25:10. worthy of many such inspiring interactive exhibit about the Ellis The Bell, Lori explained, is moments that can only be experienced Island immigration experience, I took a musical instrument that has been with the WCN. an aptitude test that was used to silent for many years, but in its determine if potential immigrants were brokenness and silence are nevertheless WCN Visit to the National of sound mind to be allowed to enter “historical and mystical powers.” She Museum of American Jewish the United States. I passed! thought of the Bell as “a character History Though we explored the looking over the sweep of the country by Diane Weil museum independently, a crowd of and capturing its essence,” and wrote On Tuesday afternoon, we WCN members could be found in the her piece in the spirit of two songs that set off for a field trip to the National post-1945 experience section proudly famously do that very well: “This Land Museum of American Jewish History, standing in front of an exhibit with the is Your Land” and “Yerushalayim Shel which relocated to a new building on WCN emblem. This section also had a Zahav.” Independence Mall in Philadelphia in display of 1960’s artifacts. Included is a “Shir Ha’pa’amon” “gives the November, 2010. The Museum has 1962 letter that Debbie wrote to Sak’s Liberty Bell back her voice . . . extra significance for us as it houses the Fifth Avenue, complaining about the ‘proclaim Liberty across the land’ is her some of the archives of Cantor Adolf lack of Hanukkah decorations in their prayer.” As the song opens, we hear Katchko, Cantor Debbie Katchko- store windows, as well as the reply from the tears of the Bell—American tears Gray, and WCN, all donated by WCN a Saks official. Also in that display was a and Jewish tears—but as it builds founder Debbie Katchko-Gray. wedding veil and a photo of the bride toward the end, the song turns to the Our expedition began as we wearing the veil. In the second mystical hope that the Bell will one day ring entered the bus after lunch. Singing occurrence of the day, Debbie stood in again. “The Wheels on the Bus” (thankfully) front of her letter, and explained to a The one hour of rehearsal transitioned to Shir Hapa’amon/Song of woman also viewing the display that was all we needed. When we arrived at the Be, as Lori Sumberg valiantly she was the author of the letter. The the Museum the next day, we were rehearsed us in preparation for the woman responded by telling Debbie performance at the museum. that she was the bride in the photo! At our arrival at the In the remaining time, we museum, we were greeted by visited Philadelphia attractions and ate CEO and President Michael dinner.

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Dr. Dan Gottlieb thoughtful advice within the changing face of by Jan Morrison framework of compassion that he had marriage by Dr. Dan Gottlieb, been discussing. using the words introduced to the conference Dr. Gottlieb’s presence “partners” or attendees by his very dear friend, was both heartwarming and “husband and Anita Hochman, is a psychologist and meaningful. During his time with us, wife” instead of Jessi Roemer author. He began his career as a he quoted a wonderful poet named “man and wife.” family therapist in 1969. But a near Mark Nepo's poem called "Accepting Tfilah Atika in the fatal car this." (marknepo.com). It was a Shalshelet song book can also be used accident wonderful experience to be in Dr. for same sex marriages. Music from in 1979 Gottlieb's presence. Hazzan Charles Davidson was shared, changed Dr. Gottlieb has authored including Ana Dodi. Cantor Raymond his life several books, including The Wisdom Smolover’s beautiful music from the and left of Sam, Learning from the Heart, and Song of Songs was shared by Deborah him Voices of Conflict, Voices of Healing. Jacobson. (His music can be accessed paralyzed All can be purchased from his through the URJ website and in from the website, Drdangottlieb.com. WCN packet). A beautiful and lush chest down. version of El Ginat Egos, written by Dan Gottlieb He has used Sara Levy-Taina and found in TMP’s with Anita Hochman Songs in the Key of Love his skills and by Jan Morrison Kol Dodi was shared. his own personal experience to help Presented by Anita Hochman, The last song of the all- countless others. Deborah Jacobson, Patty Kaplan, too-short workshop was one written Dr. Gottlieb's talk was full Kathy Sebo, and Lisa B. Segal, by Sue Roemer, of blessed memory, of insightful, funny, elegant, and including Meara Lebovitz and Jessi and sung by Jessi Roemer. Nati’s Song profoundly wise comments, inviting Roemer. was written on the occasion us to become more than we are. He Beautiful songs of the birth of Jessi’s son. used the premise, "What does it mean of love for life cycle There were no dry eyes in to be human, to have a life?" to events were chosen for the room. expand our levels of compassion and our learning and listening So many songs and so little become more open. He suggested pleasure by Anita time: this workshop was that there are four words to making Hochman and her filled with renderings that the world a better place: "tell me a wonderful “back-up gave us possibilities for life story." “What is it like to be you? band.” Deborah Jacobson cycle events to make all feel What is it like to be in your skin? Two versions welcome. The only problem And...I have all the time in the of Dodi Li (Cantor Steven with the workshop was its world." For us to practice this means Sher and David Kates) were shared, length. We could have listened and listening without responding and followed by L’cha Dodi adapted by participated all day. imagining that this might be our own Deveykus. Suggestions for wrapping story. couples in a tallit and for Source for almost all music: He looked at circling included Transcontinental Music Publications: suffering as something V’erastichli by Bonia The Complete Shireinu and Kol that everybody does or Shur, Sol Zim, and Dodi. Additional resources include has; it's how we suffer and Debbie Friedman. Tara Publications: The Joy of the what we do with it that A lovely version of DuDu Jewish Wedding, Songs of Safam, The makes our compassion by Aliza Greenblatt was Best of Debbie Friedman Songbook, compassionate. Quoting presented as a possible The Best of the Rest Songbook (Craig Steven Levine, he said, song for a renewal of Taubman), Carol Boyd Leon, Cantor "Grief is the rope burns left Patty Kaplan vows. Kathy Sebo treated Sue Roemer, Reb Shlomo Carlebach, behind when we've clutched us to a traditional version of Shirona, Harvard Hillel Sabbath so tightly to what we've lost. Let it Dodi Li, segueing into Robbie Songbook, Rabbi Shefa Gold, Fran go." Dr. Gottlieb took questions from Solomon’s My Beloved. Words can be Avni. the audience, and gave pithy, changed within the song to reflect the

PAGE 3 FALL 2011 PHILADELPHIA CONFERENCE WRAP-UP Baltimore community, and the interested in active participation meaningful role she played in his life. rather than passive listening, and He poignantly shared the memories enthusiasm for choirs in synagogues of Sharon: “She heard the feelings, faded. Dr. Edelman presented us with the thoughts, the emotions and the new ideas for integrating choirs into full impact of what she meant to the congregation to help congregants others through the prism of melody.” learn to sing in harmony. One thought Lastly, he shared that Sharon passed is to divide on Simchat Torah. “Sharon reminds us choir Sharon Wallach z”l, , Our WCN again and again that every day can be members Sister, We will Remember You Simchat Torah." into small by Tali Ann Katz I did not speak at the service; groups and On returning from an however, I too knew Sharon for over have them sit exhilarating day at the American twenty years. As I write these words I amongst Jewish History Museum, a most am reminded of Lori Sumberg’s song, congregants. moving service in memory of Sharon Shir Hapa’amon. Death has silenced After Wallach z”l was led by four of her Sharon’s resounding voice; however, it entertaining WCN colleagues who shared will always be echoed every time a questions inspiring thoughts about her life, her song is sung with passionate about choral contribution to WCN, and her conviction, and if we continue to live participation Baltimore congregational community. our lives with hope, dedication and from audience Sharon, small in physical joy. members, Dr. Edelman demonstrated stature yet a giant in personality, Sue Roemer, z”l was her several choral settings that, while warmth, and generosity, possessed an teacher at Ma’alot. Together, our two beautiful, are not overly demanding, exhilarating empowering voice that WCN sisters have eternally joined and could be used to re-introduce touched the hearts and souls of us all. each other in song. (Photos taken by harmony singing to a congregation. Arlyne Unger chanted Geri Zeer at past WCN conferences.) Ellen Allard provided movingly and shared how both she accompaniment, and workshop and Sharon mirrored each other Songs of Love in Many Voices: participants sight-read arrangements professionally, and Choral Repertoire for of music by Craig Taubman, Debbie that discovery at Congregational Singing Friedman, Charles Davidson, and their first Presented by Dr. Marsha B. Rebecca Schwartz. conference Edelman cemented a by Rachel Adelstein Israeli Dancing with Rak Dan steadfast On Monday afternoon, we by Gail Gordon Ska professional learned with Dr. Marsha B. Edelman, relationship that instructor of Jewish music at Gratz Don Schiinger (Rak Dan) is endured till her College. Dr. Edelman is known for Philadelphia's premiere Israeli dance passing. Shira her 2003 book Discovering Jewish instructor, holding sessions weekly at area Belfer felt blessed to Music, a concise and well-written temples, and traveling to do parties. have benefited from a sisterly introduction to a sometimes Those of us who attended friendship and felt humbled by dauntingly broad topic. the Israeli dance session with Don Sharon’s positive wisdom and spirit. Dr. Edelman spoke to Schillinger had a great time. I was Rebecca Schwartz reminisced about WCN members about the sometimes very impressed by his teaching style. childhood memories, and lastly, Alan contested practice of choral singing in His directions were very easy to Rubenstein, her lifelong colleague and Jewish liturgy. She provided a brief follow for both beginners and friend, shared personal moving summary of the history of Jewish experienced dancers. As a long time moments of Sharon’s life on the bima liturgical choral performance, which Israeli dancer I would be happy to and the dedicated role she played was popular in Reform congregations attend another class of his if he ever throughout her life for her in the early twentieth century. visits New York. congregational family, the greater However, as the century progressed, congregations became more

PAGE 4 FALL 2011 PHILADELPHIA CONFERENCE WRAP-UP Tradition Vs. Modernity: English translations when Hebrew As any leyner knows, that A Case for the Use of Nusach proficiency is weak among would have been more than enough; HaTefilah congregants. Dayenu! But, without the help of a Presented by Hazzan Davidson applauded teacher, a coach, it is very challenging Charles Davidson the continued creation of to build the phrases and make the by Beth Friedman-Rome new Jewish music, but connection on one’s own. And, Hazzan cautioned that it is Rena Shapiro has a calmness and Charles Davidson essential both to follow the friendliness that is welcoming and shared reflections on rules of good composition encouraging at the same time. how to encourage and to ground new works Rena coached the group congregational singing in the while simultaneously roots of preserving the core of our My first WCN conference provided the opportunity to nusach, regardless of tradition. make warm connections in an atmosphere of denomination or "Some music professional and personal sharing. I am now enriched synagogue worship style. In his long I hear is not much with a feeling of extended community. Thank you to the and distinguished career as a cantor, different from that Co-Chairs, their committee and to the WCN Board. composer and teacher at JTS, our of Christian -Rachee Shubert Davidson has come to believe that the neighbors," he most successful service combines mused. "We have musically assimilated American through sections 1a-1d, 2a-d, and so What amazing energy! Gorgeous t'fiah, new culture in many ways -- some on, through the groupings in part 14. & old music, new and old friends, wonderful good, some not so good. We The tricky part was when we started sessions and great food! Thanks to all of you hear the same simplistic with one section, then had to jump to who shared your hearts and souls and music melodies, harmonies and another, and on to the next. When with us - don't forget: "tell me your story." melodic lines in synagogues we were ready, we got to try our You're terrific! -Robbi Sherwin that we do on TV and in voices at applying the phrases to some churches. We can do better verses in Aicha. than pop culture." Rena also gave us a parting gift in our workshop folders, a piece three essential elements: 1) Cantillation for the she had written, perfect for singing in Everyone in shul should have a Chanting of Aicha a round. “V’a-su Li Mik-dash”. musical role; 2) Nusach HaTefiah is an Presented by Cantor Rena If you missed the important factor in connecting with Shapiro workshop, but still want the materials, the meaning of prayer and our Jewish by Lois Kittner as well as a CD of Rena heritage; 3) Davennen should be part The workshop on demonstrating the phrases of trope, of the whole. To encourage cantillation for the chanting of Aicha you can contact Rena, as they are for participation, Davidson favors was rich in resources, including the sale. I completed the set: all trope, "harmonized congregational chapter on Tisha B’Av, from Seasons all the time! I’m in leyning heaven! melodies" in low keys, with brisk of Our Joy, some pages from tempi and the melody line in the Lamentations (Aicha), and the soprano. Instruments and/or choirs extremely helpful and easy to follow The conference was a joy, and I was can help keep the congregation on the breakdown of trope markings particularly grateful to hear Dan beat and on pitch. accompanied by their respective Gottlieb. As he stated, we already know In terms of davenen in musical phrases. There was also the what to do - but I'm so grateful for those nusach, Davidson demonstrated how melody of Karliner Rebbe for Chapter reminders to be awake to our the cantor gets the congregation 3 of Aicha; three simple music lines, experiences, and to connect with others started, allows room for individual one for each of three verses, and then with a truly open heart. Thanks, recitation, and brings people back the music repeats as the verses Rebecca, Arlyne, and all the Philly gals, together with the chatimah -- the “seal” continue. for a LOVEly and meaningful time! or concluding part of the prayer. -Robin Sparr-Rothman Prayer modes can also be applied to

PAGE 5 FALL 2011 PHILADELPHIA CONFERENCE WRAP-UP A Little Taste Of…Peter and Ellen words, melody, and rhythm, and celebrates receiving the Torah at Mt. Allard! pointed out that songs like “Boker Tov, Sinai; “L’cha Dodi Waltz” got us up and By Audrey Klein Boker Or” are prime examples of the dancing and has a wonderfully sweet After a wonderful extra day Orff Method and a perfect opportunity and inviting sound. (I loved the “L’cha in the Philadelphia visiting family in to teach music theory. As Ellen said, Dodi Waltz so much that I am hoping Bucks County and a massage in the “Lest you think, for one moment, that to introduce the melody at the 20s and Philly airport (yes, the airport has a you are not a music teacher, and that 30s minyan that I lead. I doubt I can spa!), I’m back you are only singing a get them to waltz, so I think I’m just in sweet few fun, fluffy going to stick to singing.) home songs, we are here At the beginning of the Chicago, still to tell you session, a sheet was passed out listing “chai on life” otherwise.” about 15 songs Peter and Ellen might from the Whether you have share with us within the hour session wonderful a degree in music (sadly there was no way to sing all the few days I theory or just a songs). As printed on the handout and spent at passion for sharing reinforced by Peter and Ellen, much of WCN. With the encouragement of and teaching music to young their sheet music can be found on their Robbi Sherwin, I chose to review the audiences, it was wonderful to be website—for FREE!!! The website is: conference’s final session led by Peter reminded by Peter and Ellen that as http://peterandellen.com/free-jewish- and Ellen Allard. Robbi told me cantors, cantorial soloists, and sheet-music/ Peter and Ellen specialize in children’s songleaders, we can make a significant Peter shared their reason music, and as a children’s choir impact on the children we teach for wanting to make their sheet music director, I was very excited to learn through the medium of music. free and available for all: from them, especially after hearing Over the course of the 60- “We give our sheet music Ellen share their song “God God God” minute session, Peter and Ellen shared away because we would like you to on opening night. seven songs with a wide variety of perform these songs yourselves—we Without wasting any time, liturgical and musical influences. don’t want you to put on the record… Peter and Ellen jumped right in to “Little Taste of Torah,” from their kids don’t want to grow up to be singing and teaching with “Boker Tov, latest album of the same name, records or CDs… they grow up to want Boker Or,” a great song full of energy presented a strong Sephardic sound; to be you. So, we encourage you to and perfect for starting a school day or “God God God” is a song with lots take these songs and do that—do them morning services. In addition to hand motions and movement; “God Is yourselves.” teaching us the words and physical In” and “Across the Sea” are both Peter and Ellen, thank you motions, Ellen discussed the concepts zipper songs that encourage memory for making your sheet music available of cueing the audience when song- development and audience for us to learn and share. Thank you leading, the benefits of audiating the participation; “Torah, Torah” for sharing your passion for new Jewish

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PAGE 6 FALL 2011 PHILADELPHIA CONFERENCE WRAP-UP which toured the 4. Think about your needs and country by train restrictions in your life -- are the following year. you willing to travel? Do you Wendy Quick have a flexible schedule? began traveling 5. Know your competition. with The Peace What are the other clergy in Train across South your neighborhood doing? Africa in 2008, and 6. Publicize yourself through a in 2009, she website, Facebook, Twitter, assisted Sharon in etc. Use key words that will Sharon Katz & Peace Train realizing one of the performance be picked up by Google. By Mara Winn project’s goals: the construction of a Link your sites and be When the dynamic duo of school in the impoverished area of POSITIVE! the performance group Peace Train, KwaNgeolosi. 7. When the phone rings, put a South African singer-guitarist Sharon After having experienced smile on your face -- you Katz and her American-born partner the uplifting power of The Peace never know who is on the Wendy Quick, took the stage, I Train, I can only wish Sharon and her other end of the phone. immediately knew I was in for a very collaborators continued success in special experience. The two their endeavors. To learn more about performers energized the audience Debbi, and to read her story, check with a selection of songs in Zulu, So You Want to Be Self-Employed out mypersonalcantor.com. Afrikaans and English on themes of Presented by Debbi Ballard love and tolerance. “As a child growing By Gail F. Nalven and Pat Rudden A Lovely Celebration of Song up in South Africa during the How do you earn a Tuesday night brought apartheid era, I always knew it was an financially and spiritually rewarding together WCN members who evil system,” Sharon writes in the liner living, while serving the Jews around compose music on the theme of love. notes of her CD Crystal Journey. “In the community, including the Sylvia Goldstein put the text of “As my teens, when I began multitude of unaffiliated and You Taught Torah” (Richard Levy, sneaking out to the interfaith families? As Mishkan T’filah pg 9) to music as a townships and making Judaism is rapidly lead-in to Ahavat Olam. Other friends across the changing, Debbi Ballard performers included: Jessi Roemer, colour lines, I has found ways to create a Marsha Dubrow, Terry Horowit, experienced the path as a Jewish spiritual Sharon Hordes, Susan Colin, Abby unifying power of leader and officiant. Eighty Gostein, Rachelle Shubert, Robbi creating music percent of American Jews, Sherwin, together.” WCN Debbi says, are currently Ilene members responded not affiliated with any Safyan, joyfully to the synagogue. What Robin infectious rhythms, Debbi Ballard connections can they find to Joseph, and clapping their hands, Judaism and the Jewish Rebecca shaking their hips and community? Schwartz. joining in on the chorus of songs such It was a as “Jikela Maweni” (a work song), Debbi’s tips for being self-employed lovely “Mbube/The Lion Sleeps Tonight” (no, include: evening! Robbi Sherwin it’s not ahwhimaweh!) and “You’re 1. Have a clear vision of what Terrific,” which be came the catch you are going to do. phrase for the conference. 2. Create a name for yourself -- a It was easy to imagine how way for people to identify you. Mamash todah to Geri Zeller for wonderful these songs must have 3. Know your population. your wonderful photos from the sounded when performed by the Know why they are leaving Philadelphia Conference. multicultural children’s choir Sharon the synagogues. formed in South Africa in 1992, and

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PHILADELPHIA CONFERENCE WRAP-UP Falling in Love with Music organist-director and composer-in- of Myerov and we loved doing it. We Presented by Joe Myerov residence at the world famous were lucky to have Joe’s son, Neil, an by Marlena Taenzer congregation Beth Sholom (the accomplished pianist and organist, as What did our presenter, Frank Lloyd Wright bulding) in Elkins, our accompanist. Participants included Joe Myerov, have in common with Park, PA. Joe has written orchestral our own conference co-chairs, Rebecca Stephen Spielberg? They both spent works and choral music for chamber Schwartz and Arlyne Unger, as well as many hours truant from school –- presentations, as well as many Patty Kaplan, Anita Hochman and Stephen making home movies (with yours truly. The pieces showcased his family there to help) and Joe were: practicing piano and hanging out at - A choral setting of Lecha Dodi the local public library listening to - Chatzi Kaddish from Friday Evening recordings and reading everything he Service “Simchat Shabbat” could about music. Stephen Spielberg - Ose Shalom (Solo, SATB and Piano), and Joe Myerov were both recognized - Hashkivenu #18 (Solo) as prodigies – Stephen in film and Joe - Sheva B’rachot (in which each of us in music. took turns doing another bracha.) And Joe Myerov began taking these were just a sampling of a wide piano lessons at age five in South array of solo and choral pieces Philadelphia. He had three piano (including music for Friday Evening teachers who made such a difference in Services, Music for Shabbat, Music his life – Della Schagrin, Harry children’s songs with original lyrics, about Israel, Psalms, Art Songs, Aaronson from Julliard and Joe Levine and solo pieces for special occasions, Instrumental, Children’s Music and from the Philadelphia Orchestra. Joe wedding music and a special setting of much, much more... came from a family of musicians, the Sheva Brachot. We who participated fell in including a grandfather who was a When I heard that our love with Joe’s music and felt truly cantor. conference would be in Philadelphia, I honored to have this opportunity to As Joe progressed in his thought of Joe immediately and was give Joe Myerov the kuved that he musical career–singing secular music thrilled when he agreed to become a deserves. Joe is now in his 80's, happily on radio and TV shows, he made presenter. I had the privilege of married to his sweetheart, Loretta, and decision to devote his composing meeting him many years ago when I they have three children and several energies to writing music for the sang with the Beth Sholom choir. grandchildren. Joe is an incredible synagogue. He eventually studied Joe’s music “spoke to me” and I was musician–pianist–composer–author as nusach and traditional Jewish music delighted to have his cousin Cantor well as a likeable, modest, wonderful with Hazzan Max Wohlberg, z”l. and Deborah Cook Marlowe (one of our friend–a gitta neshumah who has helped wrote the first of his 19 Hashkiveinu WCN members) sing Joe’s “Sheva me as he has helped cantors and settings while studying with him. In B’rachot” at my wedding. (I have synagogues for almost all his life. (Find 1948, Joe became the music director at continued to use Joe’s setting as my out more about Joe and his music at Temple Emmanuel working with favorite to sing at weddings.) www.josephmyerov.com). several esteemed hazzanim, including During the workshop we Pinchas Spiro and Joseph Levine. only had a short time – a little over a Since 1954, Joe has been choirmaster, half hour–to present some of the best WCN goes to the ACC convention WCN members were out in force at the ACC conference in Boston including: Ellen Allard, Sherry Barnes, Sharon Brown Goldstein, Ellen Dreskin, Sylvia Goldstein, Abby Gostein, Nancy Landsman, Lisa Segal, Lori Shapiro, Kim Singer, Robin Sparr-Rothman, Rica Timman, Louise Treitman

PAGE 8 FALL 2011 PHILADELPHIA CONFERENCE WRAP-UP Mitch Chanin instead, use this workshop as a learning experience in how to by Donna Gordon really practice listening skills in order to engage in mutual One of the highlights of the Philadelphia WCN understanding. Conference for me was attending the Jewish Dialogue Group The facilitators then asked questions of the group Workshop brought to us by its Executive Director, Mitch and each participant was given a short amount of time to Chanin, and his cadre of experienced facilitators. express their views on the questions that were asked by the After a brief introduction of the workshop, goals, and facilitators, who I might add were not allowed to express their facilitators, the workshop participants were divided into small own views at all. In this environment of safe dialogue groups of six or fewer and each group was paired up with two members were free to express their viewpoints on the Israeli/ facilitators to then go off into its own room to discuss the Palestinian Conflict without being put down for those views complex issue of the Israeli/Palestinian conflict. by others in the group. It was a great exercise in active Before each group could begin its discussion, each listening, and a valuable tool for anyone who is engaged in participant of the group had to abide by the rules of good pastoral counseling in a congregational or educational setting. dialogue, and if they could not agree, then they were free to For those who were not able to attend this workshop, leave the workshop. The rules that we were to follow in order but are interested in learning more about this Mitch Chanin to engage in mutual and peaceful dialogue were to not use this and his program, I urge you to take a look at their website at workshop as a vehicle for persuasion of a particular viewpoint, www.jewishdialogue.org. not to attack another participant’s point of view, but to Treasurer’s Report Robin Sparr-Rothman, Treasurer Excerpted from the Treasurer’s report given at the 2011 WCN Conference Our treasury continues to operate smoothly and without incident, and all accounts remain with Bank of America, although I will be looking into investing some of our capital in instruments with greater returns for 2012. MEMBERSHIP As of Friday, June 10, we have 285 paid members, 15 members more than at this point in 2010, and 8 more than we had at year's end. Our members reside in 30 states and the District of Columbia, as well as the UK, France, Germany, Israel, Canada, and the US Virgin Islands. We have 37 new members this year. CURRENT FINANCES Our current assets as of Friday, June 10, total $59,951.61. This amount does not reflect late registrants nor outstanding conference expenses. A final conference accounting will be available in the fall newsletter. Our finances are strong. Editor’s Notes Upon taking over the role of editor, I (without a synagogue at the moment), Thanks to all who stepped-up in decided to Google WCN to see what tutor whenever I can, and along with Pat, response to my call for an editing team: news had been out there. And to my I lead High Holiday Family Services at Lisa Ann Green, Robin Sparr-Rothman, surprise, we were not the only WCN. Synagogue for the Arts and monthly Rachelle Shubert and more. Nice to Our WCN comes up second, right after services at the Cabrini Nursing Home know that I have back ups! And thanks Waste CoNections. Here’s a sampling of and Rehabilitation Center in the East also to Pat Rudden who I volunteered. some other WCNs: Welcoming Village. I am in the midst of a 2 ½ year Pat has a Ph.D. in English! Thanks Robbi Community Network, World Chambers HUC/JTS Leadership Institute program Sherwin for reviewing the final pages. Network, World Chess Network, World for congregation school leaders which As I write this, we are now in Compassion Network, Wildlife included a two week seminar at HUC the midst of a heat wave in NY and I am Conservation Network, and my personal right after WCN (unfortunately, next very glad that I am not yet cramming for favorite, Wealth Creations Network. But year’s dates conflict with our meeting) the HHDs. As we head towards Rosh no matter how many WCNs there are and will take me to Israel in February. Hodesh Elul, I wish you all a sweet and out there, we know that there is only one Prior to moving into Jewish education, I healthy New Year, filled with joy, parnasa, true Women Cantors’ Network! had a 17-year career in publishing. and song! For those who may not know Please feel free to provide me, I am a NYer by birth, currently constructive feedback on the newsletter. B’Shalom, living in Greenwich Village with my Let me know if there is something you Gail F. Nalven partner Pat Rudden, also a WCN would like to see and I will try to find member. I am a synagogue educator someone to write it.

PAGE 9 FALL 2011 MEMBER NEWS Marsha Dubrow, Ph.D. (Upper Montclair, Bruchim Habaim NJ) has been appointed a Fellow at Harvard Welcome New Members University's Weatherhead Center for Deborah Shelton Susan Deutsch International Affairs for 2011-2012. She will be Elliot Holin Amy Levy joining a diversified, international group of 16 Isabel Kopstein Stephanie Weishaar diplomats, journalists, military officers, and private sector Karen Kumin Kristin Goodkin executives. Her research project is preliminarily entitled, Ricki Weintrraub Jody Kidwell "Rising Again from the Ashes: The Aftermath of Genocide (A Gladys Gruenwald, Jeri Robins Comparative Study)." Marsha will be retaining her pulpit Amy Dulsky-Little Anne Heath position in New Jersey as Spiritual Leader and Cantor, as well. Meara Lebovitz Marcia Weinstein She requests that Boston-area WCN members please be in Helen Spacht Jody Kidwell touch with her, as she will be living in both Cambridge and New Sharon B. Goldstein Jeri Robins Jersey for the year. Scott Leader Anne Heath Elena Zarkh Marcia Weinstein Lori Sumberg was appointed Lindy Passer Cantorial Soloist of Congregation Chaverim in Tucson, Arizona on July 1st. She is looking forward to serving this hamish, loving community. Every Susan Cohen DeStefano spent the Winter and Spring Rosh HaShanah, the congregation of 2011 on stage -- in two new musical productions. She makes a pilgrimage up Mt. Lemmon, about an hour’s drive from was a featured perfor mer in Dream Babies, the shul, and davens at 8,000 feet. Lori can’t wait to hear based on true stories of teens in the foster everyone singing under the beautiful pine trees and the blasts of care system. In June, she played four the shofar echoing in the mountains. different characters in The Spoon River Project, adapted from Edgar Lee Masters' Caron Dale and Lox &Vodka were asked by the Indonesian Spoon River Anthology, at the Embassy to be part of their Celebration of Multiculturalism on historic Green-Wood Cemetery in Brooklyn, NY. One the Mall July 9th. As part of their day long celebration, they reviewer singled out Susan's "...elegant simplicity and wanted to include musical ensembles from the different lovely singing voice." Abrahamic religions. A Muslim rap group and a gospel choir, along with Lox & Vodka, each performed on their own. The Thanks to Conference grand finale of this portion of the program included the 3 Chair Rebecca Schwartz, groups performing together a rousing rendition of "Down By Co-Chair Arlyne Unger, The Riverside." Hundreds of folks were singing and clapping the entire conference along. committee and all of our friends at Kol Ami who helped to make this an excellent conference! Rebecca Schwartz MUSICAL SHABBAT AT SEA On President's Day weekend 2012 (2/17 - 2/20), the very first Jewish Music and Study Cruise will set sail from Mazel tov to new bubbie Sylvia Goldstein on welcoming a the port of Los Angeles. Our featured scholar/musician in new grandson, Noah Quinn Goldstein-Gefers (Chaim Rafael) residence is Danny Maseng. In addition to all the born 6/8/11 amenities a cruise offers, you will participate in a weekend full of Jewish musical activities including a special bon Mazel tov to new bubbe, Sherry Barnes, on welcoming her voyage party, Shabbat worship services and study sessions, first granddaughter, Aria Ruth Barnes, was born on 7/4/11 Havdalah under the stars, a special performance with Danny Maseng and lots of singing, sharing, and learning. Donna Gordon sang the premiere of Sylvia Goldstein’s For more information, please visit http:// composition "As You Taught Torah-Ahavat Olam" at the WCN jewishcruiseclub.com/music/ or contact Judy Ginsburgh at conference (318) 442-8863 or [email protected]

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ON THE ROAD AGAIN...WITH ROBBI SHERWIN On Making a Life vs Making a Living: Life as a "Statistic" Just when I thought my those "creative" types), but put those In Crested Butte this crazy travel schedule might abate in financial things in front of me and weekend (this is my 5th year of being my old age (ok, you gals know that I panic generally ensues. I'm terrified Kol Bo in this amazing resort LOVE this life!), we became a of doing my taxes. And, I've certainly mountain community), my co- statistic when my husband lost his job had some panicky moments. We are presidents sat down with me and said: right before our (awesome!) Philly getting in every single possible "We know that things must be tough conference. At his quasi- medical appointment and refilling for you right now. If you feel you governmental agency (he is an expert every single prescription. Battening need to give us up and go out there in droughts, flooding and water law), down the hatches. Trying to and get a $100,000 cantor job they had a RIF (reduction in force) understand and create a life outside somewhere, we would understand. We and Mark's level of management fell the comfort zone of the usual would be very sad, but you need to do right into the crack. We paycheck and nice what is best for you and your family." were caught completely benefits. Our paradigm I tried so hard not to unawares and frankly, is shifting - because laugh out loud - what they were saying completely unprepared. shift happens. was loving and wonderful --but a Texas was spared the Surprisingly, I find HUNDRED THOUSAND brunt of the economic that I am hyper-aware DOLLAR Cantor job? I think that downturn in the last few of how lucky we still ship has sailed, except in some rare years--people are still are. I am a very strong places. Humor, my friends, goes a moving here in droves. believer in God long way in these troubled times. And Our temples and shuls slamming the door and friends, my friends--go even farther. and communities were opening a window So, for me, I'll support certainly affected in somewhere. (Thank Mark however I can during this various ways. Cantors you, Maria from "Sound challenging time and I'll continue to left our community and of Music!) I am writing do the things that I have been doing were replaced by A typical Shabbat hike more $18 checks these to "make a living:" playing with my congregants who sing (and in Paradise Divide! days, not fewer. Many of band, Sababa, doing my Jews in the not always well!). Giving us are clergy and active wilderness work, the usual life-cycle was a bit down. Religious school members of our communities and we events, building and growing my schedules were cut and no raises were have seen first-hand, not only our own congregation, doing my scholar-in-res given to teachers. We know people loss of jobs/positions (yeah, the cantor weekends and women and family who lost their jobs due to "austerity is the first one to go, right?) but we retreats. I feel very blessed. It's all measures." Tightening the belt has are also counseling our kehiot who good (except for the airports and squeezed out jobs. We just didn't are dealing with this economy and flights!). I actually call it "making a think it would happen to US. these losses. It is much more real on life." From the canyons of the Now that it has been a this side. Many of us have dealt with Yampa River in Utah to the West couple of months and we are over the losses of our own loved ones, Maroon Pass hike from Crested Butte the shock--sorta--we are figuring out major health issues, challenges that to Aspen at 12,700 feet this August, what to do next. We are wading seem insurmountable - and yet, we are I'll be looking for that open window-- through the financial stuff-- still expected to be wives/partners, and I can't wait to fly on through! refinancing our home (again!) trying mothers, children and spiritual That window may be stuck, but with to figure out if we can buy out his leaders. Our plates are more than your help, we will push it through pension (we can't--he's too young), full, but I still believe our cups are together. I will come out a more scrambling to find health insurance, running over. We have each other - compassionate cantor and person finding new car, home & mandolin (!) our WCN sisters (and a few “bro’s”, because of this. I am grateful to have insurance, and telling our 3 young too!) to laugh and cry with, to share my WCN sisters to lean on. adults that they are on their own for our joys and struggles and to pray for cell phones, health and car insurance, our health--and those of our loves Robbi Sherwin and gas cards. Whew! I don't know if ones--and to be emotionally and Austin TX/Crested Butte, CO you are also right-brained (and I physically present for each other. We suspect that many of us are, being are very lucky to have each other.

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ARE YOU STILL RECEIVING THIS NEWSLETTER BY SNAIL MAIL? Tired of walking all the way to your mailbox to get your Women Cantors’ Network latest WCN fix? Founded 1982 http://womencantors.net Switch to our convenient electronic delivery service! You will receive a link in your email to download a copy President--Robin Anne Joseph from the website. Save time, save WCN printing and 1st VP--Geri Zeller mailing cost, save WCN women-power, and do the 2nd VP--Jacqueline Breines mitzvah of ba’al tashchit by saving a tree! 3rd VP--Judy Ribnick Recording Secretary--Annie Rose It’s easy! It’s free! It’s in spectacular color! Corresponding Secretary--Sherry Barnes Contact Robin Sparr-Rothman, [email protected], for this free Treasurer--Robin Sparr-Rothman upgrade. Newsletter Editor--Gail F. Nalven

L’Shanah HaBa-ah b’Boston Web Goddess: Chana Karmann-Lente You don’t want to miss out on next year’s WCN conference in Newton Centre, MA, Newsletter Editing/Proofreading June 17-20, 2012 team: Lisa Ann Green, Robin Anne To join the planning committee contact Susan Joseph, Patricia S. Rudden, Robin Sparr- Glickman or Robin Sparr-Rothman Rothman, Rachelle Schubert

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