On May 6, 2024, Or Olam Synagogue in New York City hosted a deeply moving classical tribute concert titled “Triumph of Our Spirit,” honoring Jewish lives lost in the Shoah and in modern times. From 7:30 pm to 9:30 pm, the newly renovated sanctuary at 308 E 55th St was filled with poignant melodies and reflections, creating an atmosphere of solemn remembrance and communal resilience.
Rabbi Eugene A. Wernick set the tone for the evening with a profound address, emphasizing the source of courage found in Jewish traditions, texts, and teachings. His words served as a reminder of the cultural and spiritual foundations that have sustained the Jewish people through history’s darkest times.
The concert was a great success thanks to Faanya Rose’s generous sponsorship, made in loving memory of her late husband, Robert Harrison Rose. Their heartfelt support not only brought this event to fruition but also underscored their deep commitment to fostering cultural enrichment and spiritual unity within the community. Faanya’s dedication to honoring Robert’s memory through this inspiring evening exemplifies the spirit of generosity and solidarity that defines the Or Olam community. Their contribution ensured that every attendee could partake in an unforgettable experience, leaving an indelible mark on all who were present and upholding the enduring legacy of Robert’s love for music and community. This act of philanthropy underscored the evening’s theme of remembrance and tribute.
The program featured an impressive array of pieces, spanning traditional and contemporary Jewish music. Highlights included “Ani Ma’amin” (Unknown), “Unter Dayne Vayse Shtern” (Sutskever/Brudno), “A Gebet” (Rolnick/Weiner), and “Halicha L’eKeysaria” (Szenes/Zehavi). The haunting “Theme from Schindler’s List” and “Jewish Town” by John Williams transported the audience, while “Vos iz Gevor’n fun Mayn Shtetele” (Lilian/Ellstein), “Rikmah Enoshit” (Motti Hamer), and “My Yiddishe Momme” (Yellen/Pollack) added layers of emotional depth.
Cantor Shiree Kidron, a distinguished vocalist known for her versatility and emotive delivery, led the evening’s performances with a commanding presence. Her vocal talents brought a deep spiritual resonance to each piece, capturing the essence of the concert’s theme with grace and sensitivity.
Pianist Gillian Berkowitz, renowned for her Broadway experience and nuanced musicality, added a refined elegance to the evening. Her skillful interpretation and expressive playing complemented Cantor Kidron’s vocals, enriching the musical tapestry with depth and sophistication.
Violinist Gabrielle Fink, celebrated for her virtuosity and extensive performance background with prestigious orchestras and renowned artists, brought a heightened level of artistry to the event. Her masterful command of the violin infused each piece with emotional intensity and technical precision, captivating the audience throughout the concert.
Together, Cantor Kidron, Gillian Berkowitz, and Gabrielle Fink created an unforgettable musical experience that transcended mere performance. Their collaboration resonated deeply with attendees, weaving together a tapestry of sound that honored Jewish heritage and inspired a profound sense of cultural pride and unity.
Standout performances included the soul-stirring “Vehi She’amda” (Liturgy/Razel), with its emotive delivery and rich spiritual resonance, and the defiant “Partisan Song” (Glick-Pokrass Brothers), which evoked a strong response from the audience with its impassioned rendition. These pieces not only showcased the performers’ skill but also touched deep chords of emotion and historical significance among listeners.
The concert reached its poignant conclusion with a stirring rendition of “Hatikvah” (Naftali Herz Imber), Israel’s national anthem. This powerful anthem symbolized hope and continuity, leaving a lasting impression of resilience and optimism as the audience joined in a collective affirmation of Jewish identity and perseverance.
The sanctuary overflowed with attendees, their faces lit with emotion as they offered heartfelt applause and standing ovations that echoed the impact of the powerful performances. The concert not only showcased exceptional talent but also created a profound sense of community, drawing together people from diverse backgrounds in a shared moment of remembrance and resilience. The atmosphere was charged with reverence and unity, underscoring the enduring significance of the event in honoring Jewish heritage and fostering a collective spirit of strength and hope.
Following the concert, a light reception offered attendees a chance to mingle, reflect on the music, and share their emotional experiences. This informal gathering deepened the sense of solidarity and togetherness felt throughout the evening, fostering meaningful connections among those who attended.
Or Olam Synagogue, known for its welcoming, egalitarian, and diverse community, once again demonstrated its commitment to honoring Jewish heritage and fostering cultural vibrancy. The newly renovated sanctuary, with its beautiful new pews, lofty beamed ceiling, and enhanced lighting and sound systems, provided an inspiring setting for the event.
For those who could not attend, selected performances from the concert are available on YouTube, allowing a wider audience to experience the event’s impact.
“Triumph of Our Spirit” was not merely a concert but a heartfelt homage to the enduring strength, resilience, and cultural richness of the Jewish people. The Olam Synagogue continues to be a beacon of inclusivity, remembrance, and celebration, providing a sanctuary where the past is honored and the future is embraced. This concert, with its deeply moving performances and communal spirit, was a testament to the triumph of the Jewish spirit over adversity and a beautiful reminder of the power of music to heal and unite.
Meyer Harroch, New York Jewish Travel Guide
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