As the season begins to change, join us to sing songs of grief, joy, healing, and turning. During the month of Elul, it is said that the creator/Gd/spirit is with us in the field -- swaying in the goldenrod and the golden hour of late summer sunsets, closer than usual. Elul is a month that continues a trajectory of reflection and return in the Jewish calendar, that culminates in the high holidays. It’s a month of presence, in which we ask each day for just one thing – to live in the house of the creator. We'll take this time to come in close with ourselves, to notice where we are and have been in this deeply intense year, and to be accompanied by each other in the process.

Aly will lead original songs from her albums Loosen and Nipple Confusion in English and Hebrew, as well as other songs for the season. This session is open to all. For more about Aly's music, go to www.alyhalpert.com.

This event is part of an Elul song series with two additional online offerings at the beginning and end of the month.

Evening flow:

Arrive and settle in: 6:30-7pm

Song circle: 7-8:15pm

Tickets:

Tickets are a sliding scale of $18-54, with no one turned away for lack of funds. Please give generously if you can to support the artist!

Where:

The Wolfe Park WEST SHELTER, in St. Louis Park, by the playground

Accessibility:

Please bring a blanket or chair if you would like to sit. The gazebo has paved paths to get there.

Porto-potties are available in the park.

If there are any other ways we can support your access to this offering, please contact Annie at annie.schlaefer@gmail.com.

Parking:

There is a parking lot and a walk to the gazebo.

Community care:

This event is outdoors! Masks are optional, and please stay home if you are feeling sick. You are welcome to mask and distance to your own comfort level.

What to bring:

A water bottle

A chair if you want one

Any cushions, blankets, and layers to help your body feel comfortable

More info:

Children are welcome to attend (for free) and play on the periphery of circle / join the circle in singing (please be mindful of distractions)

About the artist:

Aly Halpert (she/her) is a queer Jewish musician, educator, and activist living on Lenni Lenape land in Philadelphia, PA, USA. A singer, pianist, drummer, and guitar player, Aly writes songs for building community and visioning different worlds. Aly leads music and prayer for Jewish community, and has worked with Kol Tzedek Synagogue, Eden Village Camp, Let My People Sing, and synagogues across the country. Her songs have been sung in national gatherings, song circles, and quiet moments of personal prayer, and have moved people all over the world. Her first album, Nipple Confusion, has made fans of young people and adults alike. Her first full-band album Loosen was released in April 2022 with Rising Song Records. Aly believes deeply in the power of music to awaken us to the loss and hope we carry, expand our sense of possibility, and connect us to each other and our collective strength.