Classical Arabic Music and the Soul of Jewish Prayer

Over the course of the 20th century, the Sephardi-Yerushalmi Synagogue became a vibrant center of Arabic music. Popular melodies from across the Arab world were adapted for prayer texts and piyyutim, raising questions around ‘secular’ and ‘foreign’ sources.  What role did Chief Sephardic Rabbi Ovadia Yosef, z”l, play in this transformation? Musician, Paytan, and Hazzan Roni Ish Ran returns to the sounds of his childhood synagogues in Jerusalem, and through song and story, leads us into the musical transformation of Sephardi-Yerushalmi prayer.

Musician, paytan, and composer Roni Ish-Ran grew up steeped in the music of Syrian, Turkish, and Sephardi-Yerushalmi synagogues of Jerusalem. He received his degree from the Rubin Academy of Music in Jerusalem, in Arabic music. Roni composes liturgical and instrumental music, and is the founder and music director of Ensemble Shaharit, a group of paytanim bringing traditional Mizrahi prayer music into the present moment. He has written academic papers on Maqam and Piyut, and a curriculum for the Open University, titled: “Performance in Arabic Music as a Creative Process.” He is a beloved teacher and master of piyyut, with students all over the world, and a sought- after musical director for concerts throughout Israel.

Roni is in residence at Hebrew College from September 2-12.  You can join him there for Selihot services, workshops, and a concert.  Click here for more information.

Who are these classes for?

Our classes are for everyone—whether you’re brand new to the topic or have been engaging with it for years, we encourage participation from people of all backgrounds, identities, and experience levels. Unless otherwise noted, no prior knowledge or experience is needed. Not sure if a class is for you? Email us at Learning@Lehr.haus!

Why are there tickets at different prices?

Our tickets utilize a Pay-What-You-Can model so attendees can pay a range of prices based on what they are able to pay to allow for greater accessibility. Please select the price point that feels right for you.

Can I eat during class?

While we do not serve food in the study, you are welcome to order and enjoy drinks during class and join us for a meal before or after class. We highly recommend making a reservation if you know you'll be dining with us. Visit www.lehr.haus/reservation to check availability and book a table.