Hillel Yeshiva was fortunate to be treated to a wonderful assembly, recently, when five world-renowned hazzanim, including West Deal Synagogue’s Shlomo Teherani, visited the school. The hazzanim joined the middle school minyan for Selihot and then joined the high school at the end of their Tefillah. Yehiel Nahari, who gives concerts around the world, “wowed” our high school students with his tremendous vocal range. Charles Saka, a freshman, was awed by the hazzanim. “Their voices were unbelievably great and they inspired me to have more concentration in my prayers,” he commented.
The hazzanim then went to the elementary school lunchroom where they were welcomed by the students of grades one through five singing pizmonim directed by Rabbi Elbaz and Rabbi Masalton. The Pizmonim program at Hillel Yeshiva affords each child, grades kindergarten through fifth, the opportunity to learn the pizmonim which are appropriate for Shabbat and holidays. This very special assembly concluded with a mini-concert presented by the hazzanim.
Then it was time to visit our renowned Early Learning Center where the children were excited about this tremendous event. As the ELC students entered the Chira/Sultan Playground, they were greeted by the spirited music of our own Morah Sima Goldofsky. The children sang their repertoire of lively songs complete with hand motions and choreography. Suddenly, an impressive contingent of guests entered the room. Mrs. Czermak greeted Dr. Katz, Rabbi Kassin, Rabbi Davis and the professional hazzanim. The children were astounded to hear that many of the hazzanim had traveled all the way from Israel to lead the prayers in our community. The children were honored with the opportunity to sing along with the hazzanim, who were most impressed with the students’ knowledge and spirit.
As we said goodbye, the hazzanim expressed their thanks to the students of Hillel Yeshiva for their spirit and enthusiasm which continues to grow on each of these annual visits. We, at Hillel Yeshiva, truly appreciate this very special experience which is due to the coordination and collaboration of the Saka family. We looked forward to many more programs which demonstrate our love of Torah values.
