Find the Sunshine… reminds us that it’s up to us to focus on the positives in our lives, to not lose sight of our blessings, and to always remember to note the colors on the trees!
This is the Place… reflects on “how good and pleasant it is for us to dwell together in unity.” Written after Hava Nashira ‘04, this song celebrates friends and family who brighten our lives, and the special places that allow us to nurture the music in our souls.
Oseh Shalom… is our heartfelt prayer for peace.
Lo Yisa Goi… The words of the prophet Isaiah (2:4), “Nation shall not lift up sword against nation, nor ever again shall they train for war,” are a piercing reminder that we must find a way to live in peace.
Renewal… creates a quiet, meditative mood for reflection and prayer during Rosh Chodesh, a holiday marking the beginning of each month.
Mi Chamocha… praises God for those special moments that fill us with wonder. As our ancestors rejoiced after crossing the Sea of Reeds to freedom, so may we rejoice in the miracle of each new day. Thank you to Craig Taubman for so beautifully leading the service that inspired this song.
Oh, God… explores the different concepts we have of God, and how they change as we grow older. Instrumentals arranged and produced by Dan Newman.
Hashkiveinu… This prayer for God’s shelter and guidance reflects the gender sensitive language of Mishkan T’filah, the new Reform siddur, which evokes the image of God as a guardian (shomreinu) rather than as a king (malkeinu). The English translation was adapted from a contemporary interpretation of this prayer.
Journey On… celebrates milestone moments while reflecting on the past and considering what’s ahead. Written for Lisa’s son’s Bar Mitzvah, this song reminds us that life is a journey, and urges us to journey on with strength.
Tikkun Olam… teaches the Jewish ethic of repairing the world. This song reflects on our experience as slaves in Egypt and how that has shaped our identity as a people who value freedom and fight against injustice.
And So I Sing… was inspired in a magical moment on a cold winter’s day. The Hebrew text is from Psalm 27 – “Ashirah v’azam’rah Adonai sh’ma koli ekra – I will sing and I will make melody; God, listen when I call with my voice;” and Psalm 96 – Ashirah shir chadash - I will sing a new song.”
Listen… was written in memory of Audrey’s grandmother and all those whom we love and miss.
Triumph of Spirit… teaches the Hanukah story as one of courage and strength, and applauds the Maccabees’ determination to fight for religious freedom.
Jewish Holiday Rap… is a fun song that gets kids giggling while imparting nuggets of information about each holiday in a tongue-in-cheek way (using a combination of Ashkenazi and Sephardic names). Warning: this song has been known to cause adults to break out in chuckles! Instrumentals arranged and performed by Adrian Durlester; vocal contributions by Jeanette Astrow, Lee Baydush and Steve Katz.
Find the Sunshine-Reprise… is an different interpretation of the original Find the Sunshine, composed by Barry Astrow.