Join the Center for New Jewish Culture as we celebrate 50 years of Kol B’Seder, one of the pioneering musical groups behind the revival of Jewish sacred music in the 20th century. To mark the publication of the Kol B’Seder Anthology from Transcontinental Music Publications, the Center is pleased to host this evening of song and celebration of Kol B’Seder’s unique role in the pantheon of American Jewish music.

The evening will include performances from Dan Freelander and Jeff Klepper, as well as other Jewish singers, songwriters, cantors, and songleaders, a special interview with Dan and Jeff discussing five decades of their work together. Proceeds from ticket sales will go toward supporting the work of Sing Unto God, a nonprofit that trains Jewish songleaders across the country.

From their beginning as songleaders and composers of new Jewish songs, through their individual careers as a rabbi and cantor, Kol B’Seder has helped create a unique canon of American Jewish music. The duo is celebrating the 50th anniversary of its most famous song, “Shalom Rav,” a Hebrew prayer for peace, which is sung around the world and often mistakenly thought to be a “traditional” melody. Their music was once considered too radical for the bimah, but over time, their songs became de rigueur at many synagogue services. Today, when guitars and synagogue rock bands are commonplace, Jeff and Dan have embraced their role as Jewish educators and spiritual leaders. From “Modeh Ani” to “Shalom Rav,” their melodies have given children and adults alike access to Jewish tradition and contemporary spirituality.
 
In November, the duo will release their new songbook, the Kol B'Seder Anthology. This beautifully crafted collection from Transcontinental Music Publications features sheet music for 113 songs, along with insights and commentary, rare archival material, and a unique QR code for every song so you can listen to the original recording. Premium tickets include a signed copy, providing a unique keepsake from this milestone event.  

Sing Unto God (SUG) trains songleaders of all ages with the necessary technical and relational skills needed to build sacred communities of learning, prayer, and healing, and works to elevate the importance and impact of singing together however and wherever Jews gather. SUG also produces the seminal Hava Nashira Songleader Conference (founded by Debbie Friedman z"l in 1992), which includes a dedicated Camp Songleader Track, and runs a National Teen Songleader Cohort. SingUntoGod.org.