LA Jewish Symphoniy concert Aug. 26

The Los Angeles Jewish Symphony (LAJS) is celebrating its 18th, or Chai, Anniversary with a special performance on Sunday, August 26 at 7:30pm at the Ford Amphitheatre with a program entitled “CHAIlights– Celebrating 18 years of Jewish Music”.

The special program features three longtime orchestra members and soloists—Concertmaster Mark Kashper, Principal Cellist Barry Gold, and Principal Clarinetist and arranger Zinovy Goro—in music that reflects the two main streams of Jewish culture and heritage, Ashkenazic and Sephardic. Other highlights will include the U.S. premiere of "Klezmopolitan Suite,” written by Niki Reiser, a former member of the European klezmer group “Kol Simcha”; popular Jewish artist Sam Glaser will join with the newly formed Jewish Community Children's Choir, under the direction of Dr. Michelle Willner; and surprise guest artists representing LAJS’ 18-year history. Each of the pieces to be performed in the show were written by composers who were inspired by the yiddishkayt music of the Hassidic, Klezmer, and Cantorial traditions.

A Chai anniversary has its roots in the Hebrew word for “life,” which is Chai, with its Hebrew letters adding up to the number 18. For this reason, the number 18 is a spiritual number in Judaism and represents a time to reflect, remember, and celebrate.

“The concert in August at the Ford Amphitheatre is a culmination of music, culture, and celebration,” notes Dr. Noreen Green, artistic director, conductor, and founder of the LAJS. “Our music’s dynamic range conveys the Jewish experience and the special role that the LAJS plays in the diverse tapestry of Los Angeles. We look forward to delivering an unforgettable performance for all who attend.”

Since its founding in 1994 by critically acclaimed artistic director and conductor, Dr. Noreen Green, the LAJS has served as an important resource for aspiring composers and musicians. As part of its mission, the LAJS is committed to building "bridges of music and understanding” within the diverse multi-ethnic communities of Los Angeles. The LAJS is the only symphony orchestra outside of Israel devoted to the mission of performing a range of music reflective of the total Jewish experience. The LAJS fills a cultural niche that revitalizes the legacy of Jewish music and spans the broad range of Jewish heritage from adversity to accomplishment.

In addition to its yearly concerts, the LAJS develops and conducts educational outreach programming for over 1,000 school children each season. The Symphony's commitment to future generations reflects its belief in the life affirming value and importance of music appreciation.

Reserved seating tickets are $36, and $12 for full-time students with ID and children 12 and under. Tickets are available at www.FordTheatres.org or 323 461-3673 (for non-visual media 323 GO 1-FORD). For groups of 8 or more, please call 323 769-2147. For more information visit http://fordtheatres.org/en/events/details/id/374