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Music for the High Holy Days

We are pleased to share these songs and melodies with you in the hopes of enhancing your experience of the Days of Awe (Yamim Noraim). They include old favorites and new melodies for our community. We look forward to singing these and many other songs with you on Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur.  Whether we gather virtually or in person, we hope that this music will help you experience the spirited, participatory, inspiring davenning that has been a hallmark of High Holy Days at PSJC.

In what follows, Cantor Ribnick shares a treasure trove of music she has found to enhance our prayers on Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur.  Please take a few minutes to listen to a new refrain for "Achat Sha'alti" (from Psalm 27) by the talented Seattle-based songwriter Chava Mirel, to a mash-up of  Matisyahu's "One Day", and to a lyrical rendition of Ha'Neshama Lach" adapted from Brooklyn-based Eitan Katz.  We encourage you to check out the sound files, below, to hear many more melodies from the High Holy Days that we’ve sung together over the years, along with new ones.  

In all cases, the texts of these songs are available in Machzor Lev Shalem edited by Rabbi Edward Feld and in supplemental packets we distribute on Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. All page numbers refer to the Machzor Lev Shalem. This year's additions are listed first, and the previous years' music follows in alphabetical order. You can search for the newest additions by glancing to the side of each title where you will find the year it was added to our High Holy Day music resources.

May the melodies of this season enter our souls, allowing each of us - as individuals and as a community - to search our hearts and bring ourselves to a place where we can embrace and celebrate the New Year. Shana Tova U’metukah! May this year be filled with goodness and sweetness for us all!

Guest artists appear with their permission, recorded by Cantor Judy Ribnick with the help of Rabbi Carie Carter and Angela Weisl.  All of the following links are to MP3 files. You can either click and listen through your browser, or right-click and save the MP3 to your computer.

Finally, to ensure that everyone can fulfill the mitzvah of hearing the Shofar, we include a recording of Shofar blasts, directly below.

Track-1Shofar Blasts
00:00 / 00:17

The call of the Shofar brings us to attention and reminds us of the potential power of change at the heart of this season. 

2018
Recently Added Music
Oseh Shalom/One Day/HashkiveinuCarlbach
00:00 / 03:21
One-Thing-Achat-Shaalti---Chava-Mirel (1Artist Name
00:00 / 00:59
HaNeshama-Lach---Eitan-Katz-1 (1)Artist Name
00:00 / 02:47
Kol-Nidre-Niggun---Old-Melody-via-Noah-SArtist Name
00:00 / 00:41
2017
B-sefer-Chayim-Dulkin-3Artist Name
00:00 / 02:57

B'Sefer Chayim is from the liturgy; music performed by: Joanna S. Dulkin

(Refrain): B'sefer Chayim b'racha v'shalom (2X)
U'far-nasah tovah, ni-zacher v'ni-katev
B'sefer chauim b'racha v'shalom!

L'fa-necha a-nach-nu v'chol am'cha beit Yisrael,
L'chayim tovim u'l'shalom

B'sefer chayim b'racha v'shalom!

B'sefer : b'ri-yut/ sh'ley-mut/ zich-ronot/ z'chu-yot
TOGETHER: Ni-za-cheyr v'ni-ka-teyv 
B'sefer: selicha/ m'chila/ g'ulah/ re-fu-ah shley-mah

TOGETHER: ni-za-cheyr v'ni-ka-teyv* (to Refrain)
*[at Neilah: "ni-ka-tev"- "Written" - changes to "v'ney-cha-teym" - "Sealed"]

Translation: May we and the entire House of Israel be called to mind and inscribed * for life, 
blessing, sustenance and peace in the Book of Life!

Remember and inscribe us for: health, wholeness, remembrance, merit, forgiveness, pardon, redemption and complete healing.

Healing-Song-IV---Shir-Yaakov-FeitArtist Name
00:00 / 01:47

Healing Song IV- Words from "Yedid Nefesh" piyyut attributed to Elaxar ben Moshe Azikri circa. 16th c.; Translation by Rabbi Zalman Schachter-Shalomi; music - Shir Ya'akov Feit


Anah El nah refah nah lah, b'harot lah noam zivach,
Az titchazek v'titrapeh, v'hay'tah lah shifchat olam.
 

 

Translation:  Please, good God, do heal her

And show to her Your face,So my soul can see You and bathe in Your grace.

There she will find strength And healing in this sight.

Her joy will be complete then

Eternal her delight.

Luleh-He-emanti-DulkinArtist Name
00:00 / 03:34

Luleh He'emanti - Words, Psalm 27; Music, Joanna S. Dulkin
- Performed by: Joanna Dulkin


Lu-leh he-emanti lir-ot b'tuv Adonai
B'eretz chayim
Ka-veh Adonai

 

Translation:  Mine is the faith that I will surely see

Adonai's goodness in the land of the living.

Hope in Adonai

Rebecca-Schwartz---Oseh-Shalom-to-ImaginArtist Name
00:00 / 01:07

Oseh Shalom/Imagine - Words from the liturgy and John Lennon; Music, John Lennon; Adapted and performed by Rebecca Schwartz


Oseh shalom bim-ro-mav hu ya'aseh shalom aleinu
V'al kol Yisrael, V'al kol yosh-vei tey-vel


You may say I'm a dreamer
But I'm not the only one
I hope some day you'll join us
And the world will be [live] as one

Translation:  May the One who brings peace to the universe bring peace to us, to all the people Israel, and to all who dwell on earth. 

Ratzoh-VShov-Final-1Artist Name
00:00 / 02:46

Ratzoh V'shov - Words, Ezekiel 1:14 Performed by Lisa B. Segal, Music: Lisa B. Segal


"Each year is one long spiritual practice, with inevitable energetic ebbs and flows. That is the ratzoh v'shov (ebb and flow, per Ezekiel 1:14) of spiritual life, built in to our seasonal-liturgical cycle." - The Velveteen Rabbi, Rachel Barenblat. From Cantor Segal: Let this song flow into you as you move through...Elul...and the High Holy Days"

Ra-tzoh v'sho, ebb and flow (4x)

Here I am again, for the very first time
Ra-tzoh v'sho, ebb and flow
Here I am, again and again,
Ra-tzoh v'sho, ebb and flow

Where have I been? Where am I going to?
Counting the days to the ebb and flow.

Psalm-150-to-Leonard-Cohens-Hallelujah--Artist Name
00:00 / 01:53

For MP3s of all of the music below, click on the link (underlined title) at the end of the brief descriptions.  For videos, click on the "play" icon (right pointing triangle) in the video box.

Music from Previous Years

EREV ROSH HASHANAH

  • Maariv Nusach (2008)  This special melody (nusach) is used only for the nights of Rosh Hashanah and Yom KippurMaariv Nusach  

  • Barchu into Ma'avir Yom p. 5 (2013) The traditional Ashkenazic High Holy Day evening service melody is sung for Barchu (the call to prayer) and the first blessing of the Shema Barchu into Ma'avir Yom  p.5.

  • Shema (2009)  Shema is one of the central prayers of Judaism.  It is recited at numerous points in the High Holy Day service, but this melody is used in the Ma’ariv (evening) service for the Days of Awe.  The melody was composed by 19th century Austrian composer, Solomon Sulzer.  Sulzer is known as “the father of the modern cantorate”. On Yom Kippur, we recite Baruch Shem K’vod out loud, while it is said silently the rest of the year.  Shema

  • Interpretation of V’haya Im Shamoa (2014) By Hazzan Arlyne Unger, Inspired by Dr. Saul Wachs - Interpretation of the 2nd paragraph of the Shema, “V’haya Im Shamoa” – Environmental Awareness

And it will come to pass/If you will listen carefully to My mitzvot
that I have given to you today/to love Adonai your God and to serve Adonai
with all your hearts and with all your souls.
Then I will favor your land/with clean rain at the proper season
and you will have an ample harvest/enough to feed all the peoples of the world.
I will provide for you clear springs/and streams, rivers and oceans to keep the earth fertile,
to give fish for food, and irrigation for the plants.

Clean air to breathe,/Mountains to climb and trees for life and pleasure.
Take care/lest you be tempted to turn your hearts/to abandon My earth
to pollute my streams and my rivers/to ruin My air and destroy the ozone layer,
and to worship such destructive forces.
For the wrath of God will be directed against you,/acid rain will fall and pollute the streams and the land
global warming will change the face of My earth; and quickly the fish and the animals will disappear from the earth
and you, too, will disappear from the good earth/which I, Adonai, am giving you.

  • Mi Chamocha p. 8 (2013)  The traditional Ashkenazic High Holy Day evening service motif is used for Mi Chamocha (“Who is like You”), part of the Geula, the prayer for redemption.  It is the transition from Shema to the Amidah.  Mi Chamocha click the link to play music.

  • Hashkiveinu Refrain p. 9, 211   (2014)  Melody by Max Wohlberg    “. . . save us for the sake of Your name.”

  • Hatzi Kaddish p. 10 (2013) The traditional Ashkenazic High Holy Day evening service melody is sung for Hatzi Kaddish during the Maariv Service of the Days of Awe.  Hatzi Kaddish p.10

  • Achot Ketanah (2009)  Achot K’tana (“Little Sister”) is a Moroccan piyut sung on the first evening of Rosh Hashanah.  In this hymn by Abraham Hazzan Gerondi, we pray that the “troubles of the old year may cease and that the new year may bring a harvest of blessing.” From “Songs of the Jews of Calcutta” edited by Rahel Masleah.  Achot Ketanah  

  • Achat Shaalti (2009) p. 27  “One thing I ask, for this I yearn, to dwell in the God’s house forever, to behold God’s beauty, to be in God’s sanctuary.” Taken from Psalm 27, the Psalm for the Days of Awe. Melody: Israel Katz.  Achat Shallti

  • Duet for Elul (2011)  From Psalm 121 and Psalm 27; Arranged by Andrew Bernard.  Combining two powerful psalms of yearning for the Days of Awe, this duet asks: I lift up my eyes toward the heavens, from where will my help come? My help comes from God, maker of heaven and earth.  Achat Sha’alti, drawn from Psalm 27, the Psalm for the Days of Awe, expresses a single desire, the longing of this season: “One thing I ask, for this I yearn, to dwell in God’s house all the days of my life, to behold God’s beauty, to pray in God’s sanctuary.”  Duet for Elul

  • Yigdal (2012) p. 28 Based upon Maimonides thirteen principles of faith, Yigdal serves as the closing prayer for evening services on Shabbat and holidays. This melody is used specifically for the Days of Awe.  Yigdal

ROSH HASHANAH SHACHARIT

  • Zochreinu L'chayim (2009) p. 82  Remember us to life. . .Write us in the Book of Life. This line is inserted in the first blessing of the Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur Amidah. Melody: Israel Goldfarb.  Zochreinu L'chayim

  • Y'varechecha (2012) p. 91  This powerful liturgical piece is recited at the end of each repetition of the Amidah. Drawn from the Book of Numbers, "the Priestly blessing€ is also at the heart of the blessing children are offered by parents on Shabbat It expresses the heartfelt prayer May God bless you and keep you; May God's face shine on you and be gracious to you; May God lift up God's face to you and grant you peace.  May this be God's will! Music: Sol Zim.  Y'varechecha  

  • Sim Shalom (2009) p. 91  With these final words of the morning Amidah, we pray simply Grant us peace! Melody: Meir Finkelstein.  Sim Shalom

  • B'sefer Chayim (2009) p. 91 With this addition to the Amidah of Yamim Noraim, we express our desire to be "inscribed in the Book of Life" . Melody by Israel Goldfarb.  B'sefer Chayim

  • Avinu Malkeinu (2009) p. 92  “Our father (our mother), our Ruler, have compassion upon us and answer us….” These words and this haunting melody are at the heart of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. Whether we feel close or distant from God, this prayer is a promise of connection. Folk melody.  Avinu Malkeinu

ROSH HASHANAH TORAH SERVICE

  • V’zot Hatorah(2012) p. 106 This is the Torah, God's word by Moses' hand, which Moses set before the people of Israel. Melody by David Lefkowitz.  V'zot Hatorah

  • Hashiveinu (Koktzker chasidim) (2009) p. 123 This melody is a PSJC favorite and wends its way through the service. It is drawn from the final lines of the Torah service. Sung to the Niggun (melody) of the Kotzker Chasidim, we pray: Turn to us, O God, and we shall return. Renew our lives as in days of old. Hashiveinu   [audio:https://s3.amazonaws.com/images.shulcloud.com/433/uploads/music/2012/09/Track-15.mp3|titles=Track 15]

ROSH HASHANAH TORAH SERVICE HEALING AND PEACE

  • Esa Einai (2009) I lift up my eyes to the heavens from whence my help will come. Taken from Psalm 121. Melody: Shlomo Carlebach.  Esa Einai.

  • Esa Einai II (2013) I lift up my eyes to the hills. . .searching for the help I need. . . This song of hope is taken from Psalm 121:1-2. The melody presented here is to "Hallelujah" by Leonard Cohen as sung by Kol Halev chorus, Temple Beth Emeth- Ann Arbor, Michigan.  Esa Einai II

  • Refaeinu/Healing Song (2009)  Heal us Adonai, and we shall be healed. Save us and we shall be saved. Ana El na refa na lanu (O, God, please heal us!) Heal our bodies. Open our hearts. Awaken our minds, Shechina.  This combination of songs (the first drawn from the text of the Amidah and arranged by Natasha Hirschhorn; the second composed by Aryeh Hirschfield) guide us through our personal prayers for healing at the center of the Torah service on Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur.  Refaeinu.  

  • Healing Song II (2013)  This powerful prayer that God will please grant us all a complete healing is based on Moses' prayer in the Book of Numbers on behalf of his sister, Miriam. The English was adapted by Cantor Judy Ribnick, and the melody is by Rabbi Shlomo Carlebach.  Healing Song II

  • Elohei Oz (2009)  My God, strength of my praise, heal me, and I will be healed. . . This piyut, drawn from the music of Calcutta, alludes to Refaeinu, the healing blessing in the Amidah, and speaks of God as healer of the people. It was transmitted to us by Rahel Musleah through her work "Songs of the Jews of Calcutta."  Elohei Oz 

  • Hatzi Kaddish to the melody of Adon Has’lichot (2014)

  • Acheinu (2014)  A prayer for the safety based on The Standard Prayer book by Simeon Singer (1915).  Here is the a capella group, Maccabeats’, version: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=Jc0MfKQMq74

Acheinu kol beit yisrael, han'nutunim b'tzara uvashivyah, haomdim
bein bayam uvein bayabasha. Hamakom Y'racheim Aleihem
v'yotziem mitzara lirvacha um'afaila l'orah umishiabud lig'ulah,
hashta ba'agala uvizman kariv.V'nomar: Amen

 

  • The Lion and the Lamb, (2014)  Music and words by Fran Avni, based on images from the Book of Isaiah The Lion and the Lamb:

When the lion and the lamb lie down in the sand they both shall sleep the peace they keep.
When the lion and the lamb lie down in the sand the world will no longer weep.
“ And we will study war no more.  Lo yisa goy el goy cherev/lo yil-m’du od mil-chamah.”

  • Oseh Shalom--Kirtan (2009) p. 138  May God who makes peace in the high places, grant peace to us, to all Israel and to all who dwell on earth. This prayer, which concludes both Kaddish and the Amidah has been set to many melodies. This rendition is from Kabbalah Kirtan by YofiYah (Susan Deikman). Kabbalah Kirtan is an "ecstatic form of worship€ that is a "call and response repetition of sacred Hebrew and Aramaic. This melody is presented as heard on "Kabbalah Kirtan" by YofiYah, 2006, Sounds True recording.  Oseh Shalom -- Kirtan

  • Shalom Canon (2009) One simple word that can heal the world:  ”Shalom€”Peace. Melody: Louise Treitman.  Shalom

ROSH HASHANAH MUSAF

  • If It Be Your Will  (2014)  yrics and Music by Leonard Cohen.  Here is Leonard Cohen singing it himself with accompanying lyrics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z_Qk_4emjEs 

  • Sfatai Tiftach (2013)  O God, Open up my lips that I begin to pray.  This kavanah opens our hearts each time we enter into the Amidah. Translation and melody by Hannah Tiferet Siegel. Arranged by Fran Avni.  Sfatai Tiftach

  • Unetaneh Tokef (2011/2012) p. 143  These first words of Unetaneh Tokef help us focus on the holiness and the power of these days of awe. Music (Opening, Louis Lewandowski; Middle, Adoph Katchko) Unetaneh Tokef 

  •  K'vakarat Ro-ei edro (2011) p. 143  From Unetaneh Tokef Music, Elecha melody, Shlomo Carlebach.  "All that lives on earth shall pass before You like a flock of sheep. As a shepherd examines the flock, making each sheep pass under the staff, so You will review and number and count, judging each living being, determining the fate of everything in creation, inscribing their destiny."  K'vakarat Roei edro

  • B'rosh Hashanah--Ashkenazic (2009) p. 143  Taken from Unetaneh Tokef, this powerful prayer captures the image of Yamim Noraim—“…on Rosh Hashanah it is written and on Yom Kippur it is sealed…” how our lives will be in the coming year. The prayer ends with a promise: “Teshuvah, u’Tefillah, u’Tzedakah ma’avirim et ro-ah hagezerah"  - that Teshuvah (turning and repentance), Tefillah (prayer) and Tzedakah (righteous/just action)” will help us better face whatever the future may hold.  B'rosh Hashanah--Ashkenazic

  • B'rosh Hashanah”Muncasz (2009) p. 143  This melody is from the Munkacz Chassidic community in Hungary. It is brought to us by Tova Klein as was sung by her father and grandfather.  B'rosh Hashanah-Muncasz

  • Adam Yesodo (2012) p. 144  From Unetaneh Tokef Melody, Abram Brodach A reminder of our own smallness and mortality, in comparison to the greatness of God.  Adam Yesodo

  • V'chol Maaminim (2012) p. 146 Composed by one of the earliest of liturgical poets, Yannai, this piyut is a double acrostic emphasizing the many attributes of God. Melody: Hasidic.  V'chol Maaminim

  • U'chein, And Then (2013)  The lyrics of this song help us focus on the self reflection of this season and brings us to a place of longing for a time "when wholeness and peace are restored" and we are all "remembering what all life is for."  The three traditional U'chein paragraphs of Yamim Noraim are found at the center of the Amidah for the Days of Awe, touching on the major themes of Rosh Hashanah: Malchuyot (the unity of God, the Ruler), Zichronot (remembrance) and Shofarot (the sound of the Shofar heralding the possibilities of redemption). Words and music by Alisa Fineman.  U'chein, And Then 

  • Aleinu (2011) p. 154  from Malchuyot of Rosh Hashanah.  Though its popularity resulted in its use at the conclusion of each service, this prayer was actually created specifically for the Malchuyot service of Rosh Hashanah. In this context, Aleinu gives us all an opportunity to prostrate ourselves to the ground, to pray to God with body and soul as well as heart and voice. Melody: "MiSinai" - (=very old traditional tune).  Aleinu

  • Shehu Noteh shamayim (2010) p.173  This version of the verses "She-hu Noteh Shamayim" "the One who spreads out the heavens" [found in Aleinu and recited at the conclusion of each service] is a majestic, wonderful melody adapted from a traditional Sephardic rendering of Shirat Ya-yam ( The Song at the Sea which the Israelites sang upon escaping from Egypt and successfully crossing the Sea of Reeds in the Book of Exodus). The melody ("Bendigamos" ) is commonly used for Birkat Hamazon (Grace after Meals). The song was set and adapted by Richard Botton.  Shehu Noteh shamayim

  • Holy Holy Holy  (2011) Lyrics: Liturgy. Sung by MercyMe as transmitted by Rick Recht and Susan Glickman. Adapted by Judy Ribnick.  This piece has three parts that work in harmony.  Part 1:   Holy Holy Holy Part 2: Holy Holy Holy pt 2, Part3: Holy Holy Holy pt 3.

  • Holy Ground (2010) The place we are standing can be holy ground. This moment can be holy time. We need only take notice. This is the overriding message of this song and is a central theme to these Days of Awe. Woody Guthrie (a native of Coney Island) wrote this song in 1954 and Frank London and the Klezmatics set it to music five decades later. It contains a prominent verse from Exodus when Moses encounters the Burning Bush.  Inspired by the melody and the message of this piece, we adapted this text to carry us through the three central themes of Musaf for Rosh Hashanah, Malchuyot (God's sovereignty), Zichronot (Remembrance) and Shofarot (the Shofar blasts), while holding on to Guthrie's original message: If we allow it to be, the place we are standing is indeed "holy ground'.  Adapted and shared with us by Lisa B. Segal of Kolot Chayeinu and further adapted by Carter/Ribnick/Burhenne.  Holy Ground

  • Havein Yakir Li, p. 161 (2014)  Jeremiah 31:20 (music by Samuel Malavsky) This prayer depicts the people of Israel as God’s beloved child.  The melody is popular in Israel.  

  • Psalm 150 (2013)  With every instrument at our disposal--With every breath---our soul sings to You the mystery Halleluyah!  This is the inspiring close to the Book of Psalms, and to Pseukei D'zimra (the preliminary service each morning). Because of its reference to praising God with the voice of the Shofar, we are lucky enough to find Psalm 150 in Shofarot, the final of the three special sections of the Musaf Amidah for Rosh Hashanah as well.  Melody: Michael Praetorius (1571-1621)/Sufi Chant.  Words adapted by Rabbi Danielle Upbin.  Psalm 150

  •  Hava Nashira (2010)  Hava Nashira, Shir Hallelujah! (Come, let us sing a song of praise!)"  This melody, composed by Josh Nelson Music (BMI) is a 3-part canon that gives a new feel to a familiar and inspiring phrase and reminds us of the power that is ours when we raise our voice in song.  Hava Nashira

  • Hayom Harat Olam (2009) p. 158  "Today the world was brought into being." This passage concludes each of the three sections of the musaf Amidah unique to the Rosh Hashanah service. Music by Hanna Tiferet, arranged by Nomi Fenson.  Hayom Harat Olam

  • Areshet Sefateinu (2009) p. 158  "May the Prayers of our lips be pleasing to You"' is sung just after the Shofar call at the end of each of the three special sections of the Rosh Hashanah Musaf Amidah, Malchuyot, Zichronot and Shofarot. Melody: Sol Zim.  Areshet Sefateinu

  • Hayom T'amtzeinu (2009) p. 169 This final piyut of the Musaf service for Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur reminds us of the importance of the moment, the importance of "hayom", "today."  Melody: Traditional Ashkenazic.  Hayom T'amtzeinu

  • Kaddish Shalem (Hasidic) (2012) p. 171  From the Liturgy sung at the conclusion of the Service on Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, this melody lifts the energy of the community to a great high.  Melody: Yossele Rosenblatt/David Kusevitsky  Kaddish Shalem

  • L'shono Toyva (2012)  A Yiddish song of welcome. "We send greetings, loud and clear, to all people. "Happy New Year! A good year! Text: Sh. Tsesler; Music by Chana Mlotek.  L'shono Toyva

YOM KIPPUR

  • Or Zarua (2009)  "Light is sown for the righteous and joy for the upright in heart." This song introduces Kol Nidrei night and is sung as the Torahs are removed from the ark.  Melody: Hassidic.  Or Zarua

  • Kol Nidrei (2011)  From the Yom Kippur Liturgy.  The powerful melody of Kol Nidrei begins each and every Yom Kippur.  Melody: Traditional Ashkenazic Kol Nidre.  Bishiva shel Maalah (2009)

  • Bishiva shel Maalah  By the authority of the court above and the court below. With Divine sanction and with the sanction of this Holy Community, we declare it is lawful to pray together with those who have transgressed. Just before Kol Nidrei, we remind ourselves that despite our transgressions, we can come together to pray, and that each of us, regardless of our shortcomings and sins has a place within this community.  Melody: Debbie Friedman.  Bishiva shel Maalah

  • Psalm for Shabbat p. 206 (2013)  When Yom Kippur falls on Shabbat, we get to hear this beautiful rendition of Psalm 92, the Psalm for Shabbat. Melody by Rabbi Ken Chasen.  Psalm for Shabbat  

  • Psalm 93 p. 206 (2013)  "Waters may rage and roar, but above the sea and its breakers, awesome is Adonai our God."  This final Psalm of Kabbalat Shabbat is brought into the High Holy Day services on special occasions, when Rosh Hashanah or Yom Kippur coincides with Shabbat. This is sung to a Yiddish melody, Volt Ich Gehat Koyech.  Psalm 93

  • Yaaleh (2009)  "May our supplications rise at nightfall, our prayers approach you at dawn. Let our exultation come at dusk. "This piyut brings us through the 24 hours of Yom Kippur, moving from supplication on Kol Nidrei night to prayers throughout the day and a hope for exultation and mercy as night falls again with Neilah.  Melody:Origin unknown but transmitted to Judy Ribnick by Moshe Silberschein.  Yaaleh

  • Haneshama Lach (2009) Sung on Kol Nidrei night, we turn to God and remind ourselves: The soul is Yours; the body is Your creation. . . .We have come here trusting in Your name, for you are gracious and merciful. . .pardon our iniquity, for it is great. Melody: Shlomo Carlebach.  Haneshama Lach

  • Yah ana (2012) p. 231  Piyutim, Jewish liturgical poems, are central to the services of the Days of Awe. Piyutim have been written since Temple times, and use poetic schemes (such as an acrostic or other ordering of the Hebrew alphabet) to capture a specific theme of the day.  This piyut of Yehuda HaLevi expresses our search for God and our conviction that God will find us, even as we search for God.  As it says:  “Adonai, where shall I find You? High and hidden is Your place. And where shall I not find You? The world is full of Your glory.  I sought your closeness, I called to You with all my heart, And going out to meet You I found You coming close toward me.”  Melody:    The melody for Yah, ana emtsa’kha was adapted from the Balkan Sephardic rite — centered around Sarajevo, capitol of Bosnia-Herzegovina and former capitol of Yugoslavia – by Joseph Levine, editor for the Journal of Synagogue Music and a member of the RA committee that produced Mahzor Lev Shalem.  Yah ana

  • Ki Hinei Kachomer (Spanish-Portuguese) (2009) p. 207 - 2008  We are like clay in the hands of the Creator, we say in this piyut from Yom Kippur. Adapted from Adon Olam melody used in Spanish Portuguese communities.  Ki Hinei Kachomer

  • Ki Hinei Kachomer (to Cuandro el Rey Nimrod) (2012) p. 207 --2008  Popular Sephardic melody.  Ki Hinei Kachomer

  • Mochel Avonot Amo (2009) p. 232  An introduction to Shalosh Esrei Midot (the thirteen attributes of God's kindness and compassion), this prayer asks God to forgive the sins of the people.  Melody: traditional Ashkenazic melody.  Mochel Avonot Amo

  • Shema Koleinu (2009) p. 233  Throughout the day of Yom Kippur, we plead: Hear our Voice.  Melody: Unknown.  Shema Kolenu

  • Ki Anu Amecha (2009) p. 234  One of the most passionately sung prayers at PSJC, Ki Anu Amecha reminds us of our manifold relationship with God. We begin with: For we are Your people and You are our God, and once again ask God to forgive us, pardon us and grant us atonement.  
    Melody: Chassidic.  Ki Anu Amecha

MARTYROLOGY/ELEH EZK'RA

  • Al Eileh Ani Bochiyah (2014)  A  song of lament.  “For these do I weep. . .”  MISSING

  • Children of Poland (2012)  Words and melody, Si Kahn.  Children of Poland

YIZKOR OF YOM KIPPUR

  • Limnot Yameinu – (2014)  From Psalm 90; Melody by Yitzhak Husbands-Hankin.  “Teach us to treasure each day that we may open our hear to your wisdom...”  MISSING

  • They are Falling All Around Me  (2014).  Words and music by Bernice Johnson Reagon.  A powerful reminder that the impact others have on us remains after their death.  

  • Zichronam Livracha (2009) We are blessed remembering you. Drawn from traditional liturgy, the music and English words for this song were written by Anita Schubert.  Zichronam Livracha

  • Psalm 23 (2009) p. 293 Though we walk through the valley of the shadow of death. . . This famous Psalm is sung at the conclusion of PSJC's Yizkor service.  Melody: Ben Zion Shenker.  Psalm 23

  • Oseh Shalom - ”Spanish-Portuguese (2009)-”p. 294  "May God who makes peace in the high places, grant peace to us, to all Israel and to all who dwell on earth." This final line of Kaddish is one of our most basic prayers, namely that we, with God's help, can create peace in our world. The traditional text asks for peace for us and for all Israel. We add the phrase v'al kol yoshvei tevel (and all who dwell on earth) as a reminder that until there is peace for all, there can be true peace for none.  Melody: Spanish Portuguese.  Oseh Shalom

NEILAH 

  • El Nora Alila (2009) p. 407  God who does wondrously. Knowing that the day is drawing to a close, this Sephardic piyut is sung at the start of Neilah, giving us one more opportunity to pray for God's pardon. Piyyut composed by Moses Ibn Ezra, 11th century.  Melody: Sephardic, Mizrachi communities.  El Nora Alila

  • P’tach Lanu Sha’ar (2014) p. 414  Music by Ilene Safyan.  We ask God to “Keep open the gate for us…” as Yom Kippur draws to a close.  MISSING

  • Shema with 3 parts (2009) p. 429  The watchword of the Jewish faith: Hear O Israel, Adonai is our God, Adonai is one. This verse, combined with Baruch Shem (Blessed is God's glorious name forever) and Adonai Hu HaElohim (Adonai is God) are the final words of the deathbed confessional in Judaism, and thus they are the last words recited at the Neilah service on Yom Kippur, just moments before the Shofar is blown. This melody is a PSJC Classic and is usually sung on Rosh Hashanah during Malchuyot as well as at the end of Yom Kippur. Judy Ribnick learned it years ago at Elat Chayyim.  Melody: Unknown.  Shema 

  •  Shema at Neila (2009) p. 429 With this powerful affirmation of Shema (1x), Baruch Shem (3x) an Adonai hu ha-elohim (7x), we reach the end of the Neila service of Yom Kippur. It is sung to a traditional Ashkenazic melody.  Shema at Neila

ADDITIONAL SONGS FOR YAMIM NORAIM (Days of Awe)

  • Adon HaSelichot (2009)  "Master of Forgiveness - have mercy on us even as we have sinned." This religious poem, or piyyut, is recited by the Sephardic, Mizrachi and Moroccan communities. This melody comes from Moroccan tradition.  Adon HaSelichot

  • Collect Into One (2012) "Collect into one your memories. Collect into one your hopes and your dreams. Collect into one your destiny. Collect into one all that life brings. Bring us in peace from the four corners of the earth."  Music and lyrics by Craig Taubman.  Collect Into One

  • Eilecha (2009) "To You, Adonai will I call. Before You will I plead. Hear me, Adonai; be gracious. Be my help". Taken from Psalm 30.  Melody: Hassidic.  Shema

  • Hashiveinu Yah (2009) p. 123  Return to us God, and we shall return.  Melody: Shefa Gold.  Hashivenu Yah

  • Ken BaKodesh (2009) Surely I behold You in holiness. Seeing Your strength and Your glory. My spirit thirsts for You, my flesh yearns for You. Psalm 63:1-2.  Melody: Hassidic.  Ken BaKodesh

  • Lev Tahor (2014)  Psalms 51:12-13; music by Abie Rotenberg and Dveykus Band.  “God has given me a pure heart and has placed God’s holy spirit within me.  Do not cast me away from before You.  Do not take Your holy spirit from me.”MISSING

  • Olam Hesed Yibaneh (2014) From Psalm 89:3; Music by Rabbi Menachem Creditor  The world will be built on love - ours and God’s.  MISSING

  • Rewrite (2011)  Music/lyrics by Paul Simon from the album, "So Beautiful or So What" ; lyrics adapted by Judy Ribnick.  Rewrite

  • Sanctuary (2012)   "May the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart, be acceptable to You, O God, my Rock and my Redeemer. O Lord, prepare me to be a sanctuary pure and holy tried and true in thanksgiving I'll be a'living sanctuary for you."  Text taken from Psalm 19:14 and Exodus 25:8. Music and lyrics by John W. Thompson and Randy Scruggs with additional Hebrew and additional text by David Ingber.  Sanctuary

  • Shalom Shalom LaRachok v'LaKarov (2010) p. 2  "Shalom Shalom LaRachok v'Lakarov”Shalom (Peace) Shalom (Peace) to those far off and to those who are near. Taken from the book of Isaiah, these welcoming words are a part of the Haftorah for Yom Kippur, and they are the first words we see in our Machzor, Lev Shalem. It is our hope and prayer that the services we share at the Park Slope Jewish Center will be welcoming and full and filled with Shalom for those who easily walk into our doors and those whose journey here has been long and difficult. To those who have come from afar and those who are close by, we say "Shalom, welcome". These words are set to a majestic and beautiful Sephardic rendering of Shirat Hayam (the Song recounting the Crossing of the Sea of Reeds following the Exodus from Egypt).  Shalom Shalom LaRachok

  • Yesh Adonai Bamakom Hazeh (2009) Composed by Cantor Natasha Hirschhorn. . . . These words "God is in this place" are drawn from the Book of Genesis when Jacob awakens from a dream and says: "Behold, God was in this place, and I, I did not know." How often is this the case for us? This song is an affirmation that if we look closely enough, we will see that indeed God's presence is here, in this place, within these people.  Yesh Adonai Bamakom Hazeh

 

Translation:  As for our brothers, the whole house of Israel,who are given over to trouble or captivity,whether they abide on the sea or on the dry land:May the All-present have mercy upon them, and bring them forthfrom trouble to enlargement, from darkness to light, and from subjectionto redemption, now speedily and at a near time; and let us say, Amen.

Music in Alphabetical Order
  • Achat Shaalti (2008)-- p. 27.  “One thing I ask, for this I yearn, to dwell in the God’s house forever, to behold God’s beauty, to be in God’s sanctuary.” Taken from Psalm 27, the Psalm for the Days of Awe. Melody: Israel Katz.  

  • Acheinu (2014).  A prayer for the safety based on The Standard Prayer book by Simeon Singer (1915).  Here is the a capella group, Maccabeats’ version.https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=Jc0MfKQMq74 

  • Achot Ketanah (2009).  Achot K’tana (“Little Sister”) is a Moroccan piyut sung on the first evening of Rosh Hashanah.  In this hymn by Abraham Hazzan Gerondi, we pray that the “troubles of the old year may cease and that the new year may bring a harvest of blessing.” From “Songs of the Jews of Calcutta” edited by Rahel Masleah.  Achot Ketanah  

  • Adam Yesodo (2012) p. 144.  From Unetaneh Tokef  Melody, Abram Brodach.  The words are a reminder of our own smallness and mortality in comparison to the greatness of God.  Adam Yesodo  

  • Adon HaSelichot (2008).  “Master of Forgiveness…have mercy on us even as we have sinned.” This religious poem, or piyyut, is recited by the Sephardic, Mizrachi and Moroccan communities.  This melody comes from Moroccan tradition.  Adon HaSelichot 

  • Al Eileh Ani Bochiyah (2014).  A  song of lament.  “For these do I weep. . .”

  • Aleinu (2011) p. 154.  from Malchuyot of Rosh Hashanah.  The popularity of Aleinu resulted in its use at the conclusion of each service although this prayer was actually created specifically for the Malchuyot service of Rosh Hashanah. In this context, Aleinu gives us all an opportunity to prostrate ourselves on the ground, and to pray to God with body and soul as well as heart and voice.  Melody:  “MiSinai – Very old traditional tune” Aleinu.  Aleinu V’hasheivota into V’neemar (2014).  This conclusion of Aleinu is popular in Jewish renewal circles.

  • All the World Shall Come to Serve Thee (Machzor Lev Shalem, p. 150) (Liturgy; Poetic adaptation by Israel Zangwill, 1909.  Music – Shaker song composed in 1848 by Joseph Brackett).  All the World Shall Come to Serve Thee  

  • Ana El Na  Words: from the Torah; Melody:  To the music of “Sanctuary”.  This text is based on Moses’ words on behalf of his sister Miriam when she fell ill:  O God, please heal her, please heal him, please heal us, O Yah!  Ana El Na

  • Areshet Sefateinu (2008) p. 158 ”May the Prayers of our lips be pleasing to You”, is sung just after the Shofar call at the end of each of the three special sections of the Rosh Hashanah Musaf Amidah, Malchuyot, Zichronot and Shofarot. Melody: Sol Zim  Areshet Sefateinu

  • Avinu Malkeinu (2015)  Words:  Rosh Hashanah Liturgy; Music: Josh Nelson.  Avinu Malkeinu 

  • Avinu Malkeinu (2008) p. 92  “Our father (our mother), our Ruler, have compassion upon us and answer us….” These words and this haunting melody are at the heart of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. Whether we feel close or distant from God, this prayer is a promise of connection. Folk melody.  Avinu Malkeinu

  • Barchu into Ma’avir Yom p. 5  (2013). The traditional Ashkenazic High Holy Day evening service melody is sung for Barchu (the call to prayer) and the first blessing of the Shema.  Barchu into Ma'avir Yom.

  • Bishiva shel Maalah (2008)  “By the authority of the court above and the court below. With Divine sanction and with the sanction of this Holy Community, we declare it is lawful to pray together with those who have transgressed.” Just before Kol Nidrei, we remind ourselves that despite our transgressions, we can come together to pray, and that each of us, regardless of our shortcomings and sins has a place within this community. Melody: Debbie Friedman.  Bishiva shel Maalah

  • B’rosh Hashanah–Ashkenazic (2008) p. 143  Taken from Unetaneh Tokef, this powerful prayer captures the image of Yamim Noraim—“…on Rosh Hashanah it is written and on Yom Kippur it is sealed…” how our lives will be in the coming year. The prayer ends with a promise: “Teshuvah, u’Tefillah, u’Tzedakah ma’avirim et ro-ah hagezerah… that Teshuvah (turning and repentance), Tefillah (prayer) and Tzedakah (righteous/just action)” will help us better face whatever the future may hold.  B'rosh Hashanah--Ashkenazic

  • B’rosh Hashanah—Muncasz (2008) p. 143  This melody is from the Munkacz hassidic community in Hungary. It is transmitted to us by Tova Klein as was sung by her father and grandfather.  B'rosh Hashanah-Muncasz 

  • B’sefer Chayim (2009) p. 91  In this addition to the Amidah of Yamim Noraim, we express our desire to be “inscribed in the Book of Life.“ B’sefer Chayim Children of Poland (2012).  Words and melody, Si Kahn.  Children of Poland

  • Collect Into One (2012)  “Collect into one your memories.  Collect into one your hopes and your dreams.  Collect into one your destiny.  Collect into one all that life brings. Bring us in peace from the four corners of the earth.”   Music and lyrics by Craig Taubman.  Collect Into One

  • Duet for Elul (2011) From Psalm 121 and Psalm 27; Arranged by Andrew Bernard.  Combining two powerful psalms of yearning for the Days of Awe, this duet asks: “I lift up my eyes toward the heavens, from where will my help come? My help comes from God, maker of heaven and earth.”  Achat Sha’alti, drawn from Psalm 27, the Psalm for the Days of Awe, expresses a single desire, the longing of this season: “One thing I ask, for this I yearn, to dwell in God’s house all the days of my life, to behold God’s beauty, to pray in God’s sanctuary.”  Duet for Elul

  • Down to the River to Pray – Traditional American, circa 1867. Words  adapted by Diane Burhenne/Judy Ribnick.  Down to the River to Pray

  • Eilecha (2008) ”To You, Adonai will I call. Before You will I plead. Hear me, Adonai; be gracious. Be my help.” Taken from Psalm 30. Melody: Hassidic.  Shema

  • El Nora Alila (2008) p. 407 ”God who does wonderously.” Knowing that the day is drawing to a close, this Sephardic piyut is sung at the start of Neilah, giving us one more opportunity to pray for God’s pardon. Piyyut composed by Moses Ibn Ezra, 11th century. Melody: Sephardic, Mizrachi communities.  El Nora Alila

  • Elohei Oz (2009)  “My God, strength of my praise, heal me, and I will be healed.” This piyut, drawn from the music of Calcutta, alludes to Refaeinu, the healing blessing in the Amidah, and speaks of God as healer of the people.  It was transmitted to us by Rahel Musleah through her work “Songs of the Jews of Calcutta”.  Elohei Oz 

  • Esa Einai (2008)  “I lift up my eyes to the heavens from whence my help will come.” Taken from Psalm 121. Melody: Shlomo Carlebach.  Esa Einai

  • Esa Einai II  (2013)  I lift up my eyes to the hills. . .searching for the help I need. . . This song of hope is taken from Psalm 121:1-2.  The melody presented here is to “Hallelujah” by Leonard Cohen as sung by Kol Halev chorus, Temple Beth EmethAnn Arbor, Michigan.  Esa Einai II 

  • Halleluyah—words Psalm 150; Yemenite melody Halleluyah

  • Haneshama Lach (2009)  Sung on Kol Nidrei night, we turn to God and remind ourselves:  “The soul is Yours; the body is Your creation. . . .We have come here trusting in Your name, for you are gracious and merciful. . .pardon our iniquity, for it is great.” Melody:  Shlomo Carlebach.  Haneshama Lach

  • Greeting for 5-7-7-6!   Music: Evening Service mode for the High Holidays;       Words: Sylvia Goldstein


 

  ​

  • Hashiveinu (Koktzker hasidim)  (2009) p. 123.  This melody is a PSJC favorite and wends its way through the service. It is drawn from the final lines of the Torah service. Sung to the Niggun of the Kotzker Hasidim, we pray: “Turn to us, O God, and we shall return. Renew our lives as in days of old.” Hashiveinu  

  • Hashiveinu Yah (2008)  p. 123 ”Return to us God, and we shall return.” Melody: Shefa Gold-- Hashivenu Yah

  • Hashkiveinu Refrain p. 9, 211   (2014)  Melody by Max Wohlberg    “. . . save us for the sake of Your name.”

  • Hatzi Kaddish p. 10  (2013)  The traditional Ashkenazic High Holy Day evening service melody is sung for Hatzi Kaddish during the Maariv Service of the Days of Awe.  Hatzi Kaddish  

  • Hatzi Kaddish to the melody of Adon Has’lichot (2014)

  • Hava Nashira (2010)  “Hava Nashira, Shir Hallelujah! (Come, let us sing a song of praise!)” This melody, composed by Josh Nelson Music (BMI), is a 3-part canon that gives a new feel to a familiar and inspiring phrase and reminds us of the power that is ours when we raise our voice in song.  Hava Nashira  

  • Havein Yakir Li, p. 161 (2014)  Jeremiah 31:20 (music by Samuel Malavsky)  This prayer depicts the people of Israel as God’s beloved child.  The melody is popular in Israel.  

  • Hayom Harat Olam (2009) p. 158  “Today the world was brought into being.”  This passage concludes each of the three sections of the musaf Amidah unique to the Rosh Hashanah service.  Music by Hanna Tiferet, arranged by Nomi Fenson.  Hayom Harat Olam

  • Hayom T’amtzeinu (2009) p. 169 This final piyut of the Musaf service for Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur reminds us of the importance of the moment, the importance of “hayom”, “today”.  Melody: Traditional Ashkenazic Hayom T’amtzeinu

  • Healing Song I/Refaeinu (2008)  “Heal us Adonai, and we shall be healed. Save us and we shall be saved.” ”Ana El na refa na lanu—O, God, please heal us! Heal our bodies. Open our hearts.  Awaken our minds, Shechina.”  This combination of songs (the first drawn from the text of the Amidah and arranged by Natasha Hirschhorn; the second composed by Aryeh Hirschfield) guide us through our personal prayers for healing at the center of the Torah service on Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur.  Refaeinu

  • Healing Song II (2013)  This powerful prayer, that asks God to grant us all a complete healing, is based on Moses’ prayer in the Book of Numbers on behalf of his sister, Miriam.  The English was adapted by Cantor Judy Ribnick, and the melody is by Rabbi Shlomo Carlebach.  Healing Song II  

  • Holy Ground (2010)  The place we are standing can be holy ground.  This moment can be holy time.  We need only take notice.  This is the overriding message of this song and is central theme to these Days of Awe.  Woody Guthrie (a native of Coney Island) wrote this song in 1954 and Frank London and the Klezmatics set it to music 5 decades later.  It contains a prominent verse from Exodus when Moses encounters the Burning Bush.  Inspired by the melody and the message of this piece, we adapted this text to carry us through the three central themes of Musaf for Rosh Hashanah, Malchuyot (God’s sovereignty), Zichronot (Remembrance) and Shofarot (the Shofar blasts), while holding on to Guthrie’s original message: If we allow it to be, the place we are standing is indeed “holy ground”.  Adapted and shared with us by Lisa B. Segal of Kolot Chayeinu and further adapted by Carter/Ribnick/Burhenne.  Holy Ground

  • Holy Holy Holy pt. 1  (2011)  Lyrics: Liturgy. Sung by MercyMe as transmitted by Rick Recht and Susan Glickman.  Adapted by Judy Ribnick.This piece has three parts that work in harmony.  Part 1:   Holy Holy Holy Part 2: Holy Holy Holy pt 2, Part3: Holy Holy Holy pt 3. Holy Holy Holy

  • If It Be Your Will – (2014)  Lyrics and Music by Leonard Cohen.  Here is Leonard Cohen singing it himself with accompanying lyrics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z_Qk_4emjEs

  • Kaddish Shalem  (Hasidic) (2012) p. 171  From the Liturgy sung at the conclusion of the Service on Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, this melody lifts the energy of the community to a great high.  Melody:  Yossele Rosenblatt/David Kusevitsky

  • I Choose Love – Words by Lindy Thompson; Music by Mark Miller.  Mark Miller wrote this a few days after the mass shooting on 6/17/15 in the Emmanuel AME Church, Charleston, SC .  He stated, “I wrote this song using Lindy Thompson’s lyrics to convey our deep anguish and hopefulness over the Charleston tragedy.”  I Choose Love

  • I Belong to the Band – music and lyrics by Gary Davis  (1896 –1972), Words adapted by Judy Ribnick.  With every breath within, we praise God.  Hallelu, Halleluyah!  I belong to the band, Halleleluyah!  I Belong to the Band 

  • Kaddish Shalem.  Kaddish Shalem

  • Ken BaKodesh (2008)  “Surely I behold You in holiness. Seeing Your strength and Your glory. My spirit thirsts for You, my flesh yearns for You.” Psalm 63:1-2. Melody: Hassidic.  Ken BaKodesh

  • Ki Anu Amecha (2008) p. 234  One of the most passionately sung prayers at PSJC, Ki Anu Amecha reminds us of our manifold relationship with God. We begin with: “For we are Your people and You are our God,” and once again ask God to “forgive us, pardon us and grant us atonement.” Melody: Chassidic.  Ki Anu Amecha

  • Ki Hinei Kachomer (to Cuandro el Rey Nimrod) (2012) p. 207 Melody—Popular Sephardic melody.  Ki Hinei Kachomer

  • Ki Hinei Kachomer (Spanish-Portuguese) (2009)  p. 207--2008 “We are like clay in the hands of the Creator”, we say in this piyut from Yom Kippur.  Adapted from Adon Olam melody used in Spanish Portuguese communities Ki Ki Hinei Kachomer

  • Kol Nidrei (2011) From the Yom Kippur Liturgy.  The powerful melody of Kol Nidrei begins each and every Yom Kippur.  Melody:  Traditional Ashkenazic.  Kol Nidre

  • K’vakarat Ro-ei edro (2011) p. 143.  From Unetaneh Tokef Music, Elecha melody, Shlomo Carlebach “All that lives on earth shall pass before You like a flock of sheep. As a shepherd examines the flock, making each sheep pass under the staff, so You will review and number and count, judging each living being, determining the fate of everything in creation, inscribing their destiny.”  K'vakarat Roei edro

  • Lev Tahor (2014)  Psalms 51:12-13; music by Abie Rotenberg and Dveykus Band “God has given me a pure heart and has placed God’s holy spirit within me.  Do not cast me away from before You.  Do not take Your holy spirit from me.” The Lion and the Lamb, (2014).  Music and words by Fran Avni, based on images from the Book of Isaiah The Lion and the Lamb...

 

 

 

 

  • Limnot Yameinu – (2014)  From Psalm 90; Melody by Yitzhak Husbands-Hankin “Teach us to treasure each day that we may open our hear to your wisdom...”

  • L’shono Toyva (2012)  A Yiddish song of welcome.  “We send greetings, loud and clear, to all people.  “Happy New Year!  A good year!” Text:  Sh. Tsesler; Music by Chana Mlotek.L’shono Toyva  

  • Maariv Nusach (2009)--2008  This special melody (nusach) is used only for the nights of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. Maariv Nusach

  • Mi Chamocha p. 8  (2013)  The traditional Ashkenazic High Holy Day evening service motif is used for Mi Chamocha (“Who is like You”), part of the Geula, the prayer for redemption.  It is the transition from Shema to the Amidah.  Mi Chamocha 

  • Mochel Avonot Amo (2009) p. 232  An introduction to Shalosh Esrei Midot (the thirteen attributes of God’s kindness and compassion), this prayer asks God to “…forgive the sins of the people.” Melody: traditional Ashkenazic melody.  Mochel Avonot Amo

  • Musaf Kirtan:  Words: High Holiday liturgy; Music: Qawwali Kirtan Sufi devotional music heard at “Qawwali and the Spiritual Alchemy of Music”, 5/7/15, Brotherhood Synagogue.  Musaf Kirtan

  • Olam Hesed Yibaneh (2014)  From Psalm 89:3; Music by Rabbi Menachem Creditor  The world will be built on love - ours and God’s.

  • Nishmat Kol Chai   Text:  Shacharit liturgy; Music:  Joey Weisenberg.  The breath of all life praises Your name. . .All the bones in my body exclaim:  Who is like You?  Nishmat Kol Chai 

  • Or Zarua (2008)  “Light is sown for the righteous and joy for the upright in heart.” This song introduces Kol Nidrei night and is sung as the Torahs are removed from the ark.  Melody: Hassidic.  Or Zarua

  • Oseh Shalom–Kirtan (2009)  p. 138 ”May God who makes peace in the high places, grant peace to us, to all Israel and to all who dwell on earth.”  This prayer, which concludes both Kaddish and the Amidah has been set to many melodies.  This rendition is from Kabbalah Kirtan by YofiYah (Susan Deikman).  Kabbalah Kirtan is an “ecstatic form of worship” that is a “call and response repetition of sacred Hebrew and Aramaic.  This melody is presented as heard on “Kabbalah Kirtan” by YofiYah, 2006, Sounds True recording.  Oseh Shalom -- Kirtan

  • Oseh Shalom—Spanish-Portuguese (2008)—p. 294 “May God who makes peace in the high places, grant peace to us, to all Israel and to all who dwell on earth.” This final line of Kaddish is one of our most basic prayers: With God’s help, we can create peace in our world. The traditional text asks for peace for us and for all Israel. We add the phrase “v’al kol yoshvei tevel (and all who dwell on earth)” as a reminder that until there is peace for all, there can be true peace for none. Melody: Spanish Portuguese.

  • Oseh Shalom

  • Psalm 23  (2009) p. 293  “Though we walk through the valley of the shadow of death. . .” This famous Psalm is sung at the conclusion of PSJC’s Yizkor service.  Melody:  Ben Zion Shenker Psalm 23.  

  • Psalm 92 for Shabbat  p. 206  (2013).  When Yom Kippur falls on Shabbat, we sing this beautiful rendition of Psalm 92, the Psalm for Shabbat.  Melody by Rabbi Ken Chasen.  Psalm for Shabbat 

  • Psalm 93  p. 206  (2013)  Waters may rage and roar, but above the sea and its breakers, awesome is Adonai our God.  This final Psalm of Kabbalat Shabbat is brought into the High Holy Day services on special occasions, when Rosh Hashanah or Yom Kippur coincides with Shabbat.  This is sung to the Yiddish melody, Volt Ich Gehat Koyech.  Psalm 93 

  • Psalm 150  (2013)  With every instrument at our disposal–“With every breath—our soul sings to You the mystery. Halleluyah!” This is the inspiring close to the Book of Psalms, and to Pseukei D’zimra (the preliminary service each morning).  Because of its reference to praising God with the voice of the Shofar, we are lucky enough to find Psalm 150 in Shofarot, the final of the three special sections of the Musaf Amidah for Rosh Hashanah as well.  Melody:  Michael Praetorius  (1571-1621)/Sufi Chant Words adapted by Rabbi Danielle Upbin.  Psalm 150 

  • P’tach Lanu Sha’ar (2014) p. 414.  Music by Ilene Safyan.  We ask God to “Keep open the gate for us…” as Yom Kippur draws to a close.

  • Rewrite (2011) Music/lyrics by Paul Simon from the album, “So Beautiful or So What”; lyrics adapted by Judy Ribnick. Rewrite

  • Rosh Hashanah Greeting 5773 (2012)  Traditional Ashkenazic High Holiday evening service melody; English words by Sylvia F. Goldstein Rosh Hashanah Greeting  

  • Rosh Hashanah Greeting 5774  (2013)  Traditional Ashkenazic High Holy Day evening service melody with English words by Sylvia F. Goldstein, adapted by Rabbi Carie Carter and Angela Weisl Rosh Hashana Greeting 5774 click the link to play music

  • Rosh Hashanah Greeting 5775  (2014)  Traditional Ashkenazic High Holy Day evening service melody with English words by Sylvia F. Goldstein, adapted by Dianne Burhenne

  • Sanctuary (2012) ”May the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart, be acceptable to You, O God, my Rock and my Redeemer.  O Lord, prepare me to be a sanctuary pure and holy tried and true in thanksgiving I’ll be a living sanctuary for you.”  Text taken from Psalm 19:14 and Exodus 25:8. Music and lyrics by John W. Thompson and Randy Scruggs with additional Hebrew and additional text by David Ingber.    Sanctuary

  • Sfatai Tiftach (2013)  “O God, Open up my lips that I begin to pray.” This kavanah opens our hearts each time we enter into the Amidah.  Translation and melody by Hannah Tiferet Siegel.  Arranged by Fran Avni.  Sfatai Tiftach 

  • Shalom Canon (2008) One simple word that can heal the world—“Shalom—Peace.” Melody: Louise Treitman. Shalom Shalom Shalom LaRachok v’LaKarov (2010)  p. 2 ”Shalom Shalom LaRachok v’Lakarov—Shalom (Peace) Shalom (Peace) to those far off and to those who are near.”  Taken from the book of Isaiah, these welcoming words are a part of the Haftorah for Yom Kippur, and they are the first words we see in our Machzor, Lev Shalem.  It is our hope and prayer that the services we share at the Park Slope Jewish Center will be welcoming and filled with Shalom for those who walk into our doors with ease and those whose journey here has been long and difficult.  To those who have come from afar and those who are close by, we say “Shalom, welcome.” These words are set to a majestic and beautiful Sephardic rendering of Shirat Hayam (the Song recounting the Crossing of the Sea of Reeds following the Exodus from Egypt).Shalom Shalom LaRachok

  • Shehu Noteh shamayim (2010) p. 173  This version of the verses “She-hu Noteh Shamayim” – (“…the One who spreads out the heavens” [found in Aleinu and recited at the conclusion of each service]) is a majestic, wonderful melody adapted from a traditional Sephardic rendering of Shirat Ya-yam ( The Song at the Sea which the Israelites sang upon escaping from Egypt and successfully crossing the Sea of Reeds in the Book of Exodus).  The melody (“Bendigamos”) is commonly used for Birkat Hamazon (Grace after Meals).  The song was set and adapted by Richard Botton.  Shehu Noteh shamayim

  • Shema (2009)  p. 6  Shema is one of the central prayers of Judaism.  It is recited at numerous points in the High Holy Day service, but this melody is used in the Ma’ariv (evening service) for the Days of Awe.  The melody was composed by 19th century Austrian composer, Solomon Sulzer.  Sulzer is known as “the father of the modern cantorate”. On Yom Kippur, we recite Baruch Shem K’vod out loud, while it is said silently the rest of the year.  Shema

  • Shema with 3 parts (2008)—A FINAL WORD The watchword of the Jewish faith: “Hear O Israel, Adonai is our God, Adonai is one.” This verse, combined with “Baruch Shem (Blessed is God’s glorious name forever)” and “Adonai Hu HaElohim (Adonai is God)” are the final words of the deathbed confessional in Judaism, and thus they are the last words recited at the Neilah service on Yom Kippur, just moments before the Shofar is blown. This melody is a PSJC classic and is often sung on Rosh Hashanah during Malchuyot as well as at the end of Yom Kippur.  Judy Ribnick learned it years ago at Elat Chayyim. Melody: Unknown.  Shema with 3 parts 

  • Shema at Neila (2009) p. 429  With this powerful affirmation of “Shema” (1x), “Baruch Shem” (3x) and “Adonai hu ha-elohim” (7x), we reach the end of the Neila service of Yom Kippur.  It is sung to a traditional Ashkenazic melody.  Shema at Neila

  • Shema Koleinu (2008) p. 233  Throughout the day of Yom Kippur, we plead: “Hear our voice.” Melody: Unknown.  Shema Kolenu

  • Shofar Blast The call of the Shofar brings us to attention and reminds us of the potential power of change at the heart of this season. Shofar Blast Sim Shalom (2009) p. 91  With these final words of the morning Amidah, we pray simply:  Grant us peace!  Melody:  Meir Finkelstein Sim Shalom

  • The Song of Shabbos by Shlomo Carlebach (2014)  When Yom Kippur coincides with Shabbat, we sing and pray that the peacefulness of Shabbat, for which “the whole world has been waiting” settles upon our community and our world.

  • They are Falling All Around Me  (2014)  Words and music by Bernice Johnson Reagon.  A powerful reminder that the impact others have on us remains after their death.

  •  Unetaneh Tokef (2011/2012) p. 143  These first words of Unetaneh Tokef help us focus on the holiness and the power of these days of awe.  Music (Opening, Louis Lewandowski; Middle, Adoph Katchko) Unetaneh Tokef

  • Uv’chein, And Then (2013)  The lyrics of this song help us to focus on the self reflection of this season and brings us to a place of longing for a time “when wholeness and peace are restored” and “remembering what all life is for”.  The three traditional Uv’chein paragraphs of Yamim Noraim are found at the center of the Amidah for the Days of Awe, touching on the major themes of Rosh Hashanah:  Malchuyot (the unity of God), Zichronot (remembrance) and Shofarot (the possibilities of redemption).  Words and music by Alisa Fineman. Uv’chein, And Then click the  link to play  music

  • V’chol Maaminim (2012) p. 146  Composed by one of the earliest of liturgical poets, Yannai, this piyut is a double acrostic emphasizing the many attributes of God.  Melody: Hasidic V’chol Maaminim

  • Interpretation of V’haya Im Shamoa (2014)  By Hazzan Arlyne Unger, Inspired by Dr. Saul Wachs Interpretation of the 2nd paragraph of the Shema, “V’haya Im Shamoa” – Environmental Awareness.

 

  • V’zot Hatorah (2012) p. 106 “This is the Torah, God’s word by Moses’ hand, which Moses set before the people of Israel.” Melody by David Lefkowitz V’zot Hatorah

  • Yaaleh (2008)  “May our supplications rise at nightfall, our prayers approach you at dawn. Let our exultation come at dusk.” This piyut brings us through the 24 hours of Yom Kippur, moving from supplication on Kol Nidrei night to prayers throughout the day and a hope for exultation and mercy as night falls again with Neilah. Melody:Origin unknown but transmitted to Judy Ribnick by Moshe Silberschein Yaaleh.  Yah ana (2012)  p. 231

  • Piyutim, Jewish liturgical poems, are central to the services of the Days of Awe.  Piyutim have been written since Temple times, and use poetic schemes (such as an acrostic or other ordering of the Hebrew alphabet) to capture a specific theme of the day.  This piyut of Yehuda HaLevi expresses our search for God and our conviction that God will find us, even as we search for God.  As it says:  “Adonai, where shall I find You? High and hidden is Your place. And where shall I not find You? The world is full of Your glory.  I sought your closeness, I called to You with all my heart, And going out to meet You I found You coming close toward me.”  Melody:    The melody for Yah, ana emtsa’kha was adapted from the Balkan Sephardic rite — centered around Sarajevo, capitol of Bosnia-Herzegovina and former capitol of Yugoslavia – by Joseph Levine, editor for the Journal of Synagogue Music and a member of the RA committee that produced Mahzor Lev Shalem.  Yah ana

  • Yesh Adonai Bamakom Hazeh (2008) Composed by Cantor Natasha Hirschhorn.  These words, “God is in this place” are drawn from the Book of Genesis when Jacob awakens from a dream and says: “Behold, God was in this place, and I, I did not know.” How often is this the case for us? This song is an affirmation that if we look closely enough, we will see that God’s presence is indeed here, in this place, within these people.  Yesh Adonai Bamakom Hazeh

  • Yigdal (2012) p. 28 Based upon Maimonides thirteen principles of faith, Yigdal serves as the closing prayer for evening services on Shabbat and holidays.  This melody is used specifically for the Days of Awe.

  • Yigdal Y’varechecha (2012) p. 91 This powerful liturgical piece is recited at the end of each repetition of the Amidah.”  Drawn from the Book of Numbers, “the Priestly blessing” is at the heart of the blessing children are offered by parents on Shabbat: “May God bless you and keep you; May God’s face shine on you and be gracious to you; May God lift up God’s face to you and grant you peace.”  May this be God’s will!”   Music:  Sol Zim.  Y'varechecha

  • Zecher Asah, p. 161 in Machzor Lev Shalem.  Words: Psalm 111:4, English, adapted by Judy Ribnick. Music: Shnirele Perele Part of the Zichronot Liturgy of Rosh Hashanah, we say: All is revealed and known to You. Remember us, O God, as we remember You.  Zecher Asah

  • Zichronam Livracha (2009)  “We are blessed remembering you.” Drawn from traditional liturgy, the music and English words for this song were written by Anita Schubert.  Zichronam Livracha

  • Zochreinu L’chayim (2008) p. 82  “Remember us to life. . .Write us in the Book of Life.” This line is inserted in the first blessing of the Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur Amidah. Melody: Israel Goldfarb.  Zochreinu L'chayim

Acheinu kol beit yisrael, han'nutunim b'tzara uvashivyah, haomdim bein bayam uvein bayabasha. Hamakom Y'racheim Aleihem v'yotziem mitzara lirvacha um'afaila l'orah umishiabud lig'ulah, hashta ba'agala uvizman kariv.V'nomar: Amen.

Translation:  As for our brothers, the whole house of Israel,
who are given over to trouble or captivity,
whether they abide on the sea or on the dry land:
May the All-present have mercy upon them, and bring them forth
from trouble to enlargement, from darkness to light, and from subjection
to redemption, now speedily and at a near time; and let us say, Amen.

To you and to all whom you hold dear/A happy, healthy New Year.May paths of peace throughout the world appear/May love and friendship spread far and near/to greet 5-7-7-6 with cheer!  

Greeting for 5-7-7-6! 

When the lion and the lamb lie down in the sand

they both shall sleep the peace they keep.

When the lion and the lamb lie down in the sand

the world will no longer weep.

“And we will study war no more.

Lo yisa goy el goy cherev

lo yil-m’du od mil-chamah.”

And it will come to pass/If you will listen carefully to My mitzvot

that I have given to you today/to love Adonai your God and to serve Adonai

with all your hearts and with all your souls.

Then I will favor your land/with clean rain at the proper season

and you will have an ample harvest/enough to feed all the peoples of the world.

I will provide for you clear springs/and streams,

rivers and oceans to keep the earth fertile, to give fish for food, and irrigation for the plants.

Clean air to breathe,/Mountains to climb and trees for life and pleasure.

Take care/lest you be tempted to turn your hearts/to abandon My earth

to pollute my streams and my rivers/to ruin My air and destroy the ozone layer,

and to worship such destructive forces.

For the wrath of God will be directed against you, acid rain will fall and pollute the streams and the land global warming will change the face of My earth; and quickly the fish and the animals will disappear from the earth and you, too, will disappear from the good earth which I, Adonai, am giving you.

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