Since KAM Isaiah Israel’s inception, its members have had a particular interest in the musical liturgy. From documents in the synagogue’s archives we know that in the early years the music of the great German composers, such as Lewandowski and Sulzer, predominated in our services. While it is still sung from time to time, 19th-century Jewish music in the German tradition eventually ceded to the compositions of the renowned Max Janowski, music director at KAM and KAMII for over 50 years and the pre-eminent composer of Jewish liturgical music in America during the mid-20th century.
Today, Janowski’s compositions, including his distinctive Sh’ma, glorious Sim Shalom, freylech Mi Chamocha, and haunting Unataneh Tokef, form the core of our music. Over the years our cantor and music directors have added to this repertoire – from ancient melodies said to have been handed down at Sinai to the works of Italian Renaissance composer Solomone Rossi, from the more recent compositions of American Jewish composers such as Ben Steinberg, Max Helfman, and Bonia Shur to Sephardic folk songs and Chasidic niggunim, and contemporary American and Israeli music. Our pianist, Congregational Choir, Kids’ Choir, Chamber Ensemble, and Klezmer Band participate in worship services throughout the year, adding to the richness of our sacred music experience. The music of KAMII reflects our belief in the importance of continuity and innovation – preserving the unique musical legacy of Max Janowski, while innovating for the future. We welcome and encourage you to participate in our worship services with an open ear – sing, listen, learn, and enjoy!
