Part Mozart, part Mingus, part Mitchell, Elana Arian is a multi-instrumentalist, singer-songwriter, and composer. Utilizing mandolin, violin and jazz guitar, Elana creates and builds a depth of soul into prayer. Music and liturgy become one as layers and textures of sound produced by voices and instruments elevate everyone who hears her music.
Elana’s musical accomplishments are not limited to the realm of Jewish music. She has produced two secular albums and is a sought after studio musician. Elana has played in some of the most famous houses of music across the country, including Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center. She has the distinct honor of performing five different times at the White House.
Guess what?! We are the next stop on the Elana Arian Artist in Residence tour.
February 23rd-25th Elana will join us as a part of the Katz Family Scholar/Artist in Residence program. Friday Night Shabbat services with me, Elana, Rabbi Max and our choir are at 7:30pm. Saturday Night at 7:30pm hear Elana’s incredible story and music. The evening will continue with a dessert reception and a chance to connect with Elana one on one. Sunday, she will join us at religious school to work with our kids, and lead everyone in an energetic song session.
In preparation of Elana’s visit, we will be learning a couple of her liturgical settings. They are easy and engaging. As you listen to “Hinei Matov” I invite you to sing along with her! A skilled song-leader and teacher, she has created an accessible, singable call and response melody that allows everyone to participate. Elana brings excitement to this musical setting first, with a dynamic drum solo, then layering her voice into the rythmn and percussive sounds, followed by jazz flute and guitar, each element enlivening this text: “How Good it is… how sweet it is to be together on this day.”
How good it will be, how sweet it will be to be together with this amazing musician, teacher, and good friend of mine this February. Please join us!
RSVP HERE for her Saturday Night Concert. Check out Elana’s music and watch her jam with some awesome Cantors at Central Synagogue.
With Blessings,
Cantor Lauren Adesnik
