From providing entertainment to spreading stories to showcasing unknown cultures, the power of music is not to be underestimated. Seventy-five years after its inception, the State of Israel continues to feel this power, with new and traditional Israeli songs, like “Hatikvah,” “Yerushalayim Shel Zahav” and “Keren Or,” echoing lasting sentiments of hope and perseverance.
The Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia is proud to partner with the Kimmel Cultural Campus to celebrate Israel’s 75th anniversary through music with Sing Hallelujah on April 26, 2023 in Verizon Hall at the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts. The concert will feature renowned Israeli musician, humanitarian and cultural advocate Achinoam Nini, more widely known as Noa, alongside local Cantor David F. Tilman and regional synagogue choirs.
"The Jewish Federation is incredibly proud to be partnering with the Kimmel Cultural Campus to celebrate the milestone achievement of Israel’s 75th anniversary,” expressed Jeffrey Lasday, the Jewish Federation’s chief of external affairs. “The Kimmel Cultural Campus continually provides the local community with vibrant performances, and we are excited to work with them to bring a taste of Israeli culture to Greater Philadelphia."
This year marks the fourth Sing Hallelujah concert, which will include 175 singers from congregational and community choirs from synagogues throughout the Delaware Valley. Audiences can sing along to several beloved tunes, such as the Eurovision-winning song “Hallelujah,” Naomi Shemer’s “Yerushalayim shel Zahav,” “Ani V’Ata” by Arik Einstein and “Oseh Shalom,” written by Nurit Hirsh.
“This event brings regional synagogues together for an evening of voices raised in harmony, creating a beautiful musical experience to be shared by Jewish and non-Jewish Philadelphians alike,” said Matías Tarnopolsky, president and CEO of The Philadelphia Orchestra and Kimmel Center, Inc. “We are honored to host this concert, spotlighting the influence and importance of Jewish music in our society and serving as a home for this milestone celebration.”
Sharing experiences is a priority of Noa, who is one of Israel’s most highly acclaimed international singers, songwriters and activists. She has released 16 critically acclaimed albums, performed hundreds of concerts around the world on some of the most prestigious stages, like Carnegie Hall and the White House, and sang for three Popes.
Cantor Tilman, a graduate of the Juilliard School and Cantor Emeritus of Beth Sholom Congregation in Elkins Park, also believes in the unifying power of music.
“When we sing the music of the Jewish people, we become one community,” noted Tilman. “Our concert program of Israeli music is drawn from 75 years of Israeli history, from before Israel became a state through the present day. Such songs touch us profoundly and inspire even greater pride in Israel’s accomplishments.”
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Tickets for Sing Hallelujah can be purchased by calling 215.893.1999 or visiting kimmelculturalcampus.org. Use code “ISRAEL75” for 15% off tickets. Learn more about the Jewish Federation’s Israel 75 celebrations by visiting israel75.jewishphilly.org.