World Music Selections

This elegant original concert work combines the ancient Hebrew text of Jewish scholar Hillel the Elder with English lyrics to capture the tension between the need for healthy self-care and the importance of

Don't miss this unique setting of a traditional Israeli folk song scored for a cappella voices, flute, and hand drum. Inventive with spoken chants woven throughout, this is accessible with limited ranges

This Hebrew folk song is set in an easy, tasteful lyrical arrangement with a flowing piano accompaniment and flute obbligato. Sing in the original Hebrew or with the singable English lyrics included. The

"The whole world is a very narrow bridge and the main thing is not to be afraid at all." Set in the original Hebrew, with dramatic rhythmic intensity, this setting of an 18th-century text by Rebbe

This sensitive, authentic arrangement of a well-known Yiddish folksong introduces singers to the harmonic characteristics of Yiddish music. Clapping and body percussion are employed to great effect, and a

This tender song was made popular by the folk group Peter, Paul and Mary. With Hebrew lyrics from the Song of Solomon, it has been performed in concerts and weddings throughout the world. This choral

Translated literally as "good sign" (siman tov) and "good luck" (mazel tov), this upbeat folk melody comes from the Ashkenazi Jews of Eastern Europe in the late 19th century. Often

The plaintive, soul-searching melody of this beloved Israeli folk song is beautifully suited to developing voices. Voices begin in unison and ease into simple harmony before developing into a three-part

The message and melody of this beautiful traditional Jewish prayer for peace never gets old. With ample unison and a simple section of harmony in a round, this arrangement is quickly learned and extremely

Using both Hebrew and English text, this original setting of a traditional Jewish blessing provides an important message of peace. Set with a contemporary pop ballad feel, the text was chosen to honor

Setting the powerful Hebrew text by the prophet Amos, this piece is lively and full of optimism. Contemporary harmonies, optional handclaps, and a rhythmic ostinato set the joyous tone of the work. "But let

Here's an invigorating cross-cultural number that will make everyone want to dance! It's a joyful Israeli dance song, incorporating the popular round Toembai. With Hebrew text, lots of "tra la la

On a theme of prayers for peace, the melodic material seems reminiscent of music that one would hear in a Jewish morning service, with a melody that the singers and listeners will carry with them

With a traditional Hebrew text drawn from the Hashkiveinu, a traditional  prayer in the Jewish evening service, this beautiful melody, accompanied by violin obbligato, is haunting, yearning and hopeful

Psalm 23 remains one of the most comforting texts to those who are afflicted with pain, loss, and grief. This original piece sets Hebrew and English texts with a soaring melody, beautiful harmonies, and

A beloved tradition at Passover Seders, this hymn is over 1,000 years old but this wonderful arrangement is fresh and new. Lively and upbeat, the selection features syncopated rhythms in the creative piano

A spirited musical retelling of a timeless Jewish folktale about the consequences of gossip. This colorful setting pairs the fable sung in Yiddish with a spoken narration of the story in English to be

This lively setting of a traditional Hebrew folk song brings to life the joy of love. Treble groups will have fun with the rhythmic energy of this piece and will discover that this arrangement showcases

Similar in style to a Schubert lied, this Yiddish text and melody has European roots from Jewish communities scattered there. Lyrical melodies partner with a descriptive piano accompaniment to express the

Oseh Shalom or Prayer for Peace sets the words of an ancient Hebrew prayer to an original choral setting by music educator Victor Bobetsky.  Ideally for high school or adult voices, the piece is scored

Sung in Hebrew with a traditional Jewish tune, this musical arrangement is haunting and profound. The text, from the 13 Principles of Faith, is a statement of faith and hope. The violin part is not an

Slow and lyrical, this ancient Hebrew text about unity still resonates in our world today. The very nature of the Hebrew language as expressed through this hauntingly beautiful melody lifts both performers

Composed during the Holocaust and often sung at Holocaust memorial services, this haunting piece has been arranged for SATB choir and cello. The cello establishes a mournful tone while the choir sings

Combining the traditions of Orthodox Jewish music with the counterculture of the 1960s, Rabbi Shlomo Carlebach created Jewish folk revival music including this, his most famous melody. Beginning with a slow