For centuries, Jews the world over have experienced the joys and sorrows of their faith through the voice of the cantor. For centuries, cantors have sung such sacred songs as the mournful El Molay Rachamim ("O, God, full of compassion . . . grant perfect rest unto the souls of our dear ones"), or the joyful Kiddush ("We praise Thee, O God, and thank Thee . . ."). Unlike the choirmaster or organist in a Christian church, the cantor (although not ordained) holds a semisacred office; the prayers he sings are an integral part...
To continue reading:
or
Log-In
