Music at CBST: World Premiere of "Listen, My People" by Jonathan Comisar (6/28/24)

As CBST considered how to honor Rabbi Kleinbaum’s 32 years of service and leadership, Music Director Joyce Rosenzweig and Cantor Sam Rosen had the idea to commission a new piece of music.
They engaged Jonathan Comisar, a renowned composer and cantor, who has composed for orchestra, chamber music, and chorus for Jewish communities across North America.
His composition, “Listen, My People” for cantor, choir, piano, and oboe, is a truly glorious work that sets excerpts of Rabbi Kleinbaum’s drashot from over the years, as well as new text written by Comisar himself, inspired by Rabbi Kleinbaum’s teachings. It is a profound and compelling composition.
We offer gratitude to the CBST Community Chorus whose brilliant performance of this piece is a shining example of the power of choral singing. Many thanks to Ellen Gruber, whose magnificent oboe playing filled the space with beauty. And to composer and dear friend, Jonathan Comisar, whose magnificent gifts brought a deeply moving gift to Rabbi Kleinbaum and the world.
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“Listen”, My People.” Music and lyrics by Jonathan Comisar, including drashot text by Rabbi Sharon Kleinbaum.
Choir: The CBST Community Chorus
Piano: CBST Music Director Joyce Rosenzweig
Oboe: Ellen Gruber
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For more wonderful settings, be in community with CBST at Kabbalat Shabbat services, Fridays at 6:30 p.m. ET, in person or livestreaming on CBST’s website at cbst.org/livestream. All are welcome. 🌈✨