Music

Music is at the core of all we do at GJC, whether it’s singing together at Shabbat services, chanting with the Rising Song Institute, feeling moved by a performance of the GJC house band, G’vanim, or being inspired by the sound of the GJC Choir on the High Holidays.  Come explore all of the wonderful musical offerings GJC provides–we want to hear your voice singing along with us!

G’vanim

Music for the High Holidays

Rising Song Institute

Kol Zimrah

“Kol Zimrah” means “the sound of singing.” This special musical service (currently offered in person and on live stream) is led by Rabbi Adam Zeff and Executive Director Nina Peskin. Kol Zimrah features original melodies and kavanot (short spiritual reflections) rather than a formal teaching. The service invites us to enter the peaceful and reflective space of Shabbat by chanting together, hearing the sound of our voices rising up to the heavens. Listen to GJC’s Kol Zimrah service here!

Friday Night Musical Service Series

This musical service series (currently offered in person and on live stream) is led by guest musicians who lead us in singing the psalms of Kabbalat Shabbat, incorporating new melodies alongside more familiar settings. We will take our time with certain selections from the liturgy, allowing space for a contemplative entry into Shabbat, and a chance to explore the layers of the music and text together. Join us and add your voice to this musical Shabbat experience!

  • September 16, 2022: Chana Rothman is leading a musical family service for children and adults alike exploring the theme of Reflection as we look back and look forward together.
  • October 14, 2022:  Rabbi Adam Zeff and GJC musicians Dan Berman, Mikael Elsila, Sam Kassel, and Chana Rothman bring in this Shabbat of Sukkot together with singing and joy!
  • November 11, 2022:  Solomon Hoffman is a composer, musician, and senior student at the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College. He is passionate about creating new musical prayer experiences, and he is working toward an album of original liturgical music.
  • November 18, 2022: Chana Rothman returns to lead a musical family service for children and adults alike exploring the theme of Truth and Reconciliation.
  • December 16, 2022: Chana Rothman returns to lead a musical family service for children and adults alike exploring the theme of Hanukah with “You can do a lot with a little bit of oil.”
  • January 13, 2023:  Chana Rothman returns to lead a musical family service for children and adults alike exploring the theme of Reparations.
  • January 20, 2023: Rena Branson is a Jewish composer, ritual leader, and educator who is the founder of A Queer Nigun Project, which organizes monthly singing events for LGBTQIA+ folks and sends Jewish spiritual audio content to people who are incarcerated in NYC jails. You can hear her singing original compositions and traditional Hasidic melodies on Soundcloud.
  • January 27, 2023:  Kirtan (chanting) with Yoni Stadlin and Binny Kagedan
  • February 10, 2023:  Chana Rothman returns to lead a musical family service for children and adults alike exploring the theme of Disability Justice.
  • March 10, 2023:  Chana Rothman returns to lead a musical family service for children and adults alike exploring the theme of Refugee Justice.
  • May 12, 2023:  Chana Rothman returns to lead a musical family service for children and adults alike exploring the theme of Reflection & Revelation.
  • May 19, 2023:  Rena Branson is a Jewish composer, ritual leader, and educator who is the founder of A Queer Nigun Project, which organizes monthly singing events for LGBTQIA+ folks and sends Jewish spiritual audio content to people who are incarcerated in NYC jails. You can hear her singing original compositions and traditional Hasidic melodies on Soundcloud.
  • June 9, 2023: Chana Rothman & Friends for Friday Night PRIDE!