A Resounding Success

You don't have to be Jewish to enjoy Cantorial music and this was so evident on Wednesday April 6, 2005 in the Mary Irwin Theatre at the Rotary Centre for the Arts in Kelowna. A crowd of approximately 150 people, representing various faiths and religions was royally entertained by Cantor Arthur Guttman of Temple Shalom and Cantor Yaacov Orzech of Schara Tzedeck Synagogue, both in Vancouver along with their wonderful accompanist Joyce Cherry. A further treat was Kelowna's own Mezzo Soprano Leslie Turner and her accompanist Eva Pestisolova.

Mel Kotler, President of the Okanagan Jewish Community was instrumental in arranging the Concert and was the MC for the evening. The concert was a salute to Kelowna's Centennial.

With their music, the Cantors transported the audience through time and space. Their selections included contemporary Israeli songs such as Bashana Haba-a, to liturgical pieces heard during Services - Kadshenu through to Zmirot sung around the dinner table, following Friday dinner. Cantor Orzech's rendition of 'O SOLE MIO' had us sailing down the Grand Canal in Venice. Rosjinkes Mit Mandlen and Oif'n Pri'pi'tchik sung by Ms. Turner had us back in the Shtetl. She evoked many a tear with her rich voice and heartfelt rendition. Cantor Guttman dedicated 'Shalom Rav' (Prayer for Peace) to the memory of the 'Man of Peace' - Pope John Paul II. He also requested that we think of someone in need of healing during 'Mi Shebeirach (Prayer for Healing) - It was very moving to say the least.

Judging by the amount of audience participation, clapping and singling along, the evening was a wonderful success. The last piece was followed by calls for encores and three standing ovations. As with every great performance, the audience was left wanting more.

Lynda Chwaiewsky