781.3

AT EVENING I SEEK YOU (1998)

At

Musical program featuring cantors from across the U.S. leading a Maariv service for the weekday evening. This program was produced by the Jewish Theological Seminary in honor of the 50th anniversary of the Cantors Assembly and was aired on ABC-TV. It encourages Jews to seek spirituality in the liturgy. The cantors provide explanations of the prayers, and add their personal insights. Note: This program was aired as a High Holiday special, but its content is the regular Maariv service—it does not relate in particular to the High Holidays.

1 hr. AGE: Adult

940.53

BECAUSE OF THAT WAR (1989)

Bec

An extraordinary film in which two of Israel’s leading rock musicians, Yeheda Poliker and Ya’acov Gilad, tell of their experiences growing up as children of Holocaust survivors, interspersed with their songs and their parents stories of how they survived the Holocaust. Poliker’s father was a Greek Jew—the only one of fifty extended family members to survive—and he describes the fate suffered by many Greek Jews. Gilad’s mother—a Polish Jew who survived Treblinka, Majdanek and the death march—is an active speaker on the Holocaust, as well as a writer and poet on the subject. Note: The testimony of both parents is quite painful to listen to in parts. Teachers must preview before showing.

In Hebrew with subtitles. 1 hr. 30 min. AGE: 14 to Adult

F

BUBBE MEISES (Bubbe Stories) (1995)

Bub

A grown granddaughter brings alive her two very different immigrant grandmothers through original songs, traditional music and richly woven tales. This Emmy Award-winning one woman show stars Ellen Gould, who acts the parts of both of her grandmothers as she sings and tells their stories—and learns about herself through the process.

1 hr. 5 min. AGE: 12 to Adult

783.2

CANTORIAL CONCERT: IN TRIBUTE TO CANTOR MOSHE KOUSSEVITZKI (1991)

Can

Recorded live in Tel Aviv, this cantorial concert features four renowned cantors who sing in a program in memory of Cantor Moshe Koussevitzki, 25 years after his passing. The participating cantors include Chaim Adler, Asher Heinowitz, Aaron Bensoussan and Ben-Tzion Miller.

1 hr. AGE: 13 to Adult

Entertaining celebration of the Festival of Chanukah for the entire family. The program includes songs, stories, home decorating tips/crafts, a Chanukah dessert demonstration and a children’s segment with live action puppetry including “Mitzvah Mouse.” Host Fran Drescher introduces each segment. Special guests include Jewish singers Craig Taubman and Theodore Bikel; The Learning Channel’s Teresa Strasser and Whizzen Institute’s Risa Gruberger on craft ideas; Chef Jeff Nathan on making Banana Sufganiot Pudding; a Reggae Chanukah presentation of Chanukah blessings in song and dance by Alan Eder & Friends; and a children’s segment in which Mitzvah Mouse takes kids back to the time of the Maccabbees (Taubman sings “Maoz Tzur” and “Shehechiyanu.” Bikel sings “Oh Hanukkah, Oh Hanukkah” in Yiddish and English). Note: Similar in style to “A Taste of Chanukah,” this video offers a wide variety of songs and activities for Chanukah. The only potential problem for audiences is that kids may be bored with the cooking demonstration while adults may not wish to view the children’s “Mitzvah Mouse” segment.

56 min.  AGE:  8 to Adult

Cha

(DVD)

Chanukah children’s video that uses live-action puppetry and animation to tell the story of Chanukah. Aliens (puppets) on a planet called “Matzah Ball” are amazed when a menorah drops down on them one day from the sky. In searching for its origin, they look to earth and watch (through a type of TV) how Earth people use the menorah and celebrate Chanukah. The program uses original, lively songs and tells a little about the history and practice of celebrating Chanukah. Note: Will appeal only to young children. Not as engaging as many of the other available Chanukah films for children.

23 min.  AGE:  3 to 8

781.7

CHAVA ALBERSTEIN IN SONG (1987)

Cha

Israeli vocalist Chava Alberstein sings a beautiful mixture of songs including songs of love and yearning, a lullaby, and an homage to Edith Piaf. This is not a concert performance. Rather, each song is presented separately, with the backgrounds of different colorful sets including pantomimes, clowns and actors.

In Hebrew with subtitles. 36 min. AGE: 12 to Adult

781.7

DEBBIE FRIEDMAN: LIVE AT THE DEL (1990)

Deb

This video captures the 1990 live performance of America’s leading female composer and performer of Jewish music at the Hotel del Coronado near San Diego, California. Includes 22 of Debbie’s original songs.

1 hr. 25 min. AGE: All Ages

Dudu

Popular Israeli children’s video series, Bagan Shel Dudu in which singer, Dudu Fisher, plays a kindergarten teacher with a class in Israel. Each video consists primarily of songs which intermingle the daily lives of children with Jewish values. The series reinforces traditional Jewish values and are suitable for use by observant schools. Note: The songs are primarily in English with some Hebrew and English translations appear on the screen.

Approx. 30 min. each.  AGES:  2-7

NEW AND CAPTIVATING SONGS FOR CHILDREN – VOL. 1

                        Dudu is a new kindergarten teacher who sings 14 songs with the children in his class in Israel. Includes songs about thanking G-d, Shabbat, being kind to friends, Israel, Tzedakah and the blessings while eating.

27 min.

THE FRIENDSHIP TRIP – VOL. 4

Dudu Fisher takes his class on a class trip in Israel where they learn the importance of friendship and respect. This episode includes the story of Shimon Bar-Yochai as well as 14 songs. Related themes include saying Kiddush (the children actually pick grapes to make wine), honoring parents, the Jewish months, Lag B’Omer and helping others.

34 min.

781.7

THE EMBROIDERED CANTICLES (1991)

Emb

This film explores the matruz (embroidered canticles), a form of Moroccan–Jewish music that is composed both in Arabic and Hebrew. This genre of music reflects the link over centuries between Jews and Muslims in Moroccan society. The Hebrew in these songs is reserved for sacred matters, while the Arabic can be used for all other topics. The film includes interviews with scholars as well as with singers Rabbi Haim Look and Abdelsadek Chedara. Viewers will hear them sing matruz songs recorded from their concert in Paris.

In French, Arabic and Hebrew with subtitles. 26 min. AGE: 12 to Adult

910.039

FROM TOLEDO TO JERUSALEM (1989)

Fro

Popular Israeli singing star Yehoram Gaon takes us through 500 years of Sephardic history with narration and song. He visits the Sephardic settlements of Amsterdam, Venice, Sarajevo, Salonica and Jerusalem.

Ladino with subtitles. 1 hr. AGE: 14 to Adult

783.2

GREAT CANTORS IN CINEMA (1993)

Gre

Produced by the National Center for Jewish Film, this documentary uses restored archival footage to look at five specific cantors who appeared on film from 1931 to 1946. These include Josef "Yossele" Rosenblatt, Moshe Koussevitsky, Mordechai Hershman, Moishe Oysher and Louis "Leibele" Waldman. The first third of the twentieth century was the "Golden Age of Chazzanut" in America—a coming together of unbelievable cantorial talent from the capitols of Europe, most of it focused in New York. As sound in film was not available until the late 1920’s, this "Golden Age" is recorded on film mainly during the 1930’s and 1940’s—when cantors often played cantors in the films in which they appeared.

In Yiddish with English narration and subtitles. B&W. 1 hr. AGE: 14 to Adult

783.2

GREAT CANTORS OF THE GOLDEN AGE (1990)

Gre

The "Golden Age of Chazzanut" was between 1910 and 1940. In 1931, a film called The Voice of Israel was produced. It provided both a visual and audio record of some of the most famous cantors of this period. This video includes selections from that original film, narrated with commentary by Dr. Max Wohlberg, a Jewish Theological Seminary Professor of Liturgy and Chazzanut. Cantors performing include Mordechai Hershman, Adolph Katchko, David Roitman, Yossele Rosenblatt, Joseph Shilsky and the voice of Gershon Sirota. Note: During the first eight minutes, Dr. Wohlberg provides a brief history of the Golden Age of Chazzanut. Then the film clips of the cantors begin, interspersed with Wohlberg’s commentary.

Color/B&W. 55 min. AGE: 13 to Adult

Created to instill Jewish pride, this film highlights some of the great achievements Jews have made in a wide variety of fields. The film is divided into five separate sections (listed below) showcasing a total of 425 Jewish achievers including diverse talents such as Albert Einstein, Sandy Koufax, Bob Dylan, Houdini and Levi Strauss. The sections can be shown independently or in groups, but it is not advised that the entire documentary be shown in one sitting. This lively and upbeat production utilizes two modern teenagers to narrate the documentary and provide brief commentary. Note: Great Jewish Achievers is ideal for classroom use or family education settings and may be used to stimulate further research into noteworthy Jews – or as a springboard for discussions on Jewish identity. Study guide available.

56 min.  AGE:  11 to Adult

781.7

HALLELUYAH: A CELEBRATION OF PSALMS HIGH HOLY DAY SPECIAL (1996)

Hal

A musical celebration of Rosh Hashana which focuses on cantorial interpretations of psalms and features Leonard Bernstein’s Chichester Psalms. The Jewish Theological Seminary produced this program which includes commentary by Rabbi Israel Feld, the Jewish chaplain at Smith College, and by members of the JTS faculty. The choir from the JTS cantorial school sings the psalms, often with guest cantorial soloists.

58 min. AGE: Adult

296.435

HANUKKAH TALES & TUNES (1994)

Han

An assortment of Chanukah stories and sing-along songs, including a retelling of the history of Chanukah. Songs are written by Debbie Friedman. Note: Lack of kippot and clothing styles may make this video unsuitable for Traditional audiences.

30 min. AGE: 4 to 8

Israeli Hebrew and English sing-along with singer Ariela Savir and puppet, Hoply Toply. Hoply looks like a “big red tomato-ball” with a face. Dialogue is all in Hebrew with no subtitles, and songs are in Hebrew and English. Songs are intended to teach some basic Hebrew words. Note: This video will not hold the attention of American children. It is intended for preschoolers and kindergarten, but the Hebrew dialogue will stand in the way. Ariela Savir has an unusual voice with very little modulation in vocal tone or facial expression. The puppet is amateurish with a moving flap for a mouth. Israeli children may have difficult with this one as well.

In Hebrew & English.  46 Min.  AGE:  2 to 5

781.7

ISRAEL: A NATION SINGS (1998)

Isr

Reflects on 50 years of history and culture using some of Israel’s most popular music. Includes brief documentary footage from Israeli history, interspersed with songs and music from some of Israel’s current premier popular vocalists and musical groups. Israeli singers include Chava Alberstein, Gevatron, Noa, and David Broza. Some classical Israeli musical groups are also featured. Note: Emphasis is more on Israel’s music than Israeli history in this enjoyable celebration of 50 years of statehood.

1 hr. AGE: 10 to Adult

781.8

ISRAELI CHASSIDIC FESTIVAL (1986)

Isr

Israel's most popular touring company presents the sights and sounds of the sixteenth festival, plus a selection of popular songs from previous festivals.

2 hrs. AGE: All Ages

781.7

ITZHAK PERLMAN: IN THE FIDDLER’S HOUSE (1995)

Itz

Renowned violinist Itzhak Perlman takes us on an exploration of the world of contemporary Klezmer music. He visits and performs with a wide cross-section of popular Klezmer groups in New York and in the Jewish Culture Festival in Poland. With special guests Red Buttons and Fyvush Finkel.

55 min. AGE: 10 to Adult

781.7

JAN PEERCE: IF I WERE A RICH MAN (1990)

Jan

Violinist Isaac Stern hosts and narrates this film biography of singer Jan Peerce. The film traces Peerce’s career from its beginnings on the Lower East Side of Manhattan. It follows his work first as a cantor, then in the opera and finally, on Broadway. It includes many conversations between the famous tenor and his friend, Isaac Stern, as well as film footage of many of his performances. Peerce was best known for his work in opera as well as for his role as Tevye for the Broadway production of Fiddler on the Roof. The video includes his historic hit recording of "Bluebird of Happiness."

59 min. AGE: 10 to Adult

781.7

JEWISH MUSIC HERITAGE LIBRARY

Jew

Series produced in Israel which attempts to develop a comprehensive documentary on Jewish music. Each volume introduces historical background and presents and discusses songs, lyrics and melodies of one particular group of Jews. The series was created and produced by Dr. Tzipora H. Jochsberger, a Jerusalem-based educator and composer.

Approx. 4 hrs. total. AGE: 12 to Adult

ISRAEL: SOUNDS IN SEARCH OF A HOME - Vol. 1 (1999)

Part of a series produced in Israel which attempts to develop a comprehensive documentary on Jewish music. Each volume introduces historical background and presents and discusses songs, lyrics and melodies of one particular group of Jews. This video attempts to define the term "Israeli music" and explores whether Israel has yet established a unique type of music to call its own. Included are interviews with a variety of contemporary Israeli vocalists and musicians who share their opinions about Israeli music. Many examples of Israeli music are provided. Performing musicians include: Naomi Shemer, Israel Brite, Yehuda Poliker, Ya’akov Gilad, Avihu Medina, Daklon, Eti Ankeri, Yehudit Ravitz, Esther Ofarim, Johny Shuali, Amir Kertes, Michael Wolpe and the Caprisa Ensemble. The musicians show us how distinct ethnic types of Jewish music have merged to create some of the new and fresh sounds found in Israel today. (51 min.)

SEPHARAD: THE MUSIC OF THE JEWS FROM SPAIN - VOL. 2 (1993)

Over 500 years have passed since the expulsion of the Jews from Spain. Despite having scattered to the far corners of the globe, Sephardic Jews have managed to preserve their rich musical heritage. This video enables the viewers to hear and learn about the rich tradition and beautiful music of the romanceros (Ladino love songs), as well as lullabies, wedding tunes, songs of mourning, and melodies from the synagogue. Features Mira Zakai, Uri Revah, Eva Pitlik’s Vocal Ensemble, Mabat, Esther Boro Dafka-Ben Yair, Julide Avzaradel, and Ofrah Hadad. (27 min.)

ASHKENAZ: THE MUSIC OF THE JEWS FROM EASTERN EUROPE - VOL. 3 (1993)

This video includes Yiddish folk songs, liturgical synagogue music, Klezmer melodies, and Yiddish theater tunes—all of which are the essential components of Ashkenazic music. This compilation of Jewish music from Eastern Europe shows how Ashkenazic music focuses on both the old world and the new, the sacred and the secular, and invokes joy as well as sadness. Vintage archival film footage of Jewish life in Eastern Europe before World War II provides a backdrop for many of the songs illustrating the environment which generated this music. Includes a Traditional wedding segment. Features Shmuel Atzmon, Anat Atzmon, Henya Atzmon, Lupo Berkowitz, Israel Treissman, Gregory Weiner, and Cantor Binyamin Munie. (28 min.)

Teiman: The Music of the Jews from Yemen - Vol. 4 (1993)

An unusual sense of togetherness and an abundance of musical talent are the unique traits of Yemenite Jews. Mourning for the destruction of the Second Temple resulted in the prohibition of using musical instruments. Yemenite Jews, stringent in their observance, accepted this ban literally, and instead of developing the playing of musical instruments, they perfected singing and rhythm, drumming and dancing. The songs sung by Yemenite men are drawn from the Diwan—a compilation of poetry dating back 300 years—and their songs had a 3-part structure. Yemenite women composed their own ballads, mainly around issues of love and family. The video includes a description and reenactment of preparations for a Yemenite wedding. Features Achinoam Nini (Noa), Gil Dor, Noam Sheriff, Aharon Amram, The Bnei Teiman Group, Inbal Dance Theater, and Ofra Haza. (27 min.)

MOROCCO: THE MUSIC OF THE JEWS OF MOROCCO - VOL. 5  (1994)

This film explores the music of the Moroccan Jews of North Africa, who developed their own musical form by adapting Hebrew texts to melodies of their Arab neighbors. Many of these songs were Messianic in nature. The film includes many scenes of Moroccan Jews, both in Israel and Morocco, and a variety of their songs. Among the Moroccan singers and groups featured are performances by singer Shlomo Bar and the Habrera Hativit Ensemble. (28 min.)

HASSIDUT: THE MUSIC OF THE HASSIDIC COMMUNITY  - Vol. 6 (1994)

Music plays an important role in the daily life of the Hassidic community. Rabbi Nahman of Bratslav taught his students that one can pray not only through speech and words, but also through song. Filmed within the Hassidic community, we are treated to beautiful Hassidic melodies as sung in prayer, at celebrations and at many other significant events in the day-to-day life of Hassidic Jews. Includes scenes from a gathering in honor of a Bar Mitzva, a Purim scene and a segment from the wedding of the Belzer Rebbe’s son. Features Zvi Grinwald, Yehezkel Sofer, Josef Maraton, David Ben Ami, Rima Nemirovsky, Vladimir Shifrin, Peter Shifrin, Gregori Shifrin, Benjamin Hochman, and Timor Shifron. Note: As this video is about Hassidic music, and Hassidic men may not listen to a woman singing, all songs are sung by men. (28 min.)

TOWARD JERUSALEM: MUSIC OF SEVEN COMMUNITIES - Vol. 7 (1995)

Music of seven ethnic groups of instrumentalists and singers in Israel are highlighted, including ensembles from India, Persia, Iraq, Ethiopia, Kurdistan, Georgia and Tajikistan. The musicians were gathered from throughout Israel to perform in Jerusalem with Israeli rock star Ehud Banai. The video shows each of the groups in their own surroundings, with samplings of their music and a look at their unique musical instruments. (28 min.)

ITALY: SALOMONE ROSSI: BETWEEN WORLDS - VOL. 9  (1996)

Focuses on the musical works of Salomone Rossi, an important Italian Jewish composer of the Renaissance and Baroque period. Rossi was the first to introduce choral music into the synagogue, composing 33 choral works. Some of his works are performed in this video by Italian and Israeli musicians and singers, against the background of Italian palaces and synagogues. The film also includes dances created by Jewish dancing masters of the 16th and 17th centuries, performed by dancers in authentic period costumes. A guide shows viewers sites from the Jewish ghetto in Mantua, where Rossi lived, and scenes of the Jewish ghetto in Venice. Nothing was heard from Rossi after 1630, and it was assumed that he died during the year of the Black Death. (28 min.)

590.74

JINJA’S ISRAELI SAFARI (1995)

Jin

Lively children’s video which takes viewers on a visit with Jinja, a lovable lion cub, through a tour of Tel Aviv’s Safari Park to meet the animals. Jinja narrates the film (a likable voice pretending to be the cub), telling factual stories about the animals in the park interspersed with seven easy-to-learn Hebrew children’s songs about animals. Some segments include animation as well. An easy favorite with the younger set.

Narration is in English; songs are in Hebrew. 40 min. AGE: 3 to 10

JHVC

781.7

A JUMPIN' NIGHT IN THE GARDEN OF EDEN (1987)

Jum

By turns rollicking and plaintive, klezmer was the popular "soul" music of Eastern European Jews. More than a musical style, it encompassed the world of Yiddish culture with roots extending to itinerant traveling musicians of the Middle Ages. In recent years klezmer has enjoyed a strong revival as skilled young musicians rediscovered early recordings and added their own sensibilities to the style. A Jumpin' Night in the Garden of Eden highlights the best modern klezmer groups, such as the Klezmer Conservatory Band and Kapelye. The younger players seek out musicians from an earlier era, who provide them with technical insights and historical perspective. The film details klezmer's ability to embrace other influences, ranging from gypsy musical styles to new drumming techniques. At the same time, it shows the broadening interest in klezmer, through the Yiddish Folk Arts Institute and Garrison Keillor's A Prairie Home Companion.

1 hr. 15 min. AGE: 10 to Adult

915.694

KIDS SING ISRAEL (Shalom Sesame, Show 11) (1991)

Sha

Join in the fun as Sarah Jessica Parker, Kippi and the kids of Israel host the exciting "Song of Songs" show featuring many favorite Hebrew and Israeli songs. Guest appearances by Anne Meara, Paul Shaffer, Itzhak Perlman and B.B. King. Study guide available.

30 min. AGE: 5 to 10

781.7

THE LAST KLEZMER: LEOPOLD KOZLOWSKI: HIS LIFE AND MUSIC (1994)

Documentary which follows 69-year-old Klezmer musician Leopold Kozlowski as he travels back to the Peremyshlyany Polish village where he was raised before the Holocaust. Kozlowski is the last active Klezmer musician who had been trained in the original, pre-World War II tradition. He survived the hardships of life in concentration camps, although Kozlowski’s parents and brother were killed by the Nazis. He tells how the Nazis forced him to play tangos for the SS while Jews marched to their deaths, and about how he escaped to the woods and became a partisan. In the film, Kozlowski is also reunited with a Holocaust survivor from his home town whom he hasn’t seen for 50 years. Currently, Kozlowski lives in Krakow, where he teaches Yiddish music, conducts and composes, still dedicated to keeping alive the tradition of Klezmer music. Filmmaker Yale Strom made this film after searching in Eastern Europe for remaining Klezmer musicians trained in pre-war traditions. Note: Bits of music and song are interspersed throughout the film, but this is less a film about music than it is about a musician’s personal journey recollecting his past.

In English, Polish, Yiddish& Russian with subtitles.  1 hr. 24 min.  AGE:  14 to Adult

783.2

LEGENDARY VOICES: CANTORS OF YESTERYEAR (1991)

Leg

Presents film recordings with very brief biographical introductions of eight classic cantors of the past—Mordechai Hershman, Adolph Katchko, Samuel Malavsky, Moishe Oysher, David Roitman, Yossele Rosenblatt, Josef Shlisky and Leibele Waldman.

B&W. 55 min. AGE: 13 to Adult

783.2

MANY VOICES, ONE SOUND: THE WORLD OF JEWISH CHORAL MUSIC (1992)

Man

Takes viewers to the First Annual North American Jewish Choral Festival in the Catskills in 1990, where choirs from around the U.S. and Canada gathered to perform and sing together. Sixteen songs are performed by a variety of choirs, demonstrating different styles of Jewish choral music—including Yiddish, Ladino, and contemporary works. Choral leaders and singers comment throughout the video about their connections to Jewish choral music.

1 hr. AGE: 12 to Adult

492.4

MASTER DREAMER (1986)

Mas

A dramatized musical of Eliezer Ben-Yehudah's life and his dream of bringing Hebrew to Eretz Yisrael. The film shows how he changed Biblical Hebrew into the modern Hebrew language. Study guide available.

In Hebrew with subtitles. 1 hr. AGE: 13 to Adult

781.7

MIRACLE DAYS (1992)

Mir

Original Jewish holiday songs written and performed by Yoni Gershon. Includes scenes of children participating in holiday activities. Note: Suitable for Traditional audiences.

30 min. AGE: 4 to 10

781.7

THE NEW KLEZMORIM: VOICES INSIDE THE REVIVAL OF YIDDISH MUSIC (2000)

Lively documentary about the revival of Yiddish music. The film alternates between interviews and actual performances by contemporary Klezmer groups. Many of the leading figures in Klezmer music today perform in this film, including Chicago Klezmer Ensemble, Adrienne Cooper, Brave Old World, Josh Waletzky, Hankus Netsky, Jeff Warschauer and Deborah Strauss. Viewers hear a wide variety of variations on the original Klezmer sounds, as well as learning why this form of music has reached renewed popularity today.

1 hr. 9 min.  AGE: 

781.7

OFRA HAZA: FROM DUSK TO DAWN (1983)

The late Israeli popular singer, Ofra Haza, performs in three different settings: a popular Jaffa nightclub, an air force base and a Yemenite club. Her music reflects her strong Yemenite background and her performance reinforces her reputation as one of Israel’s greatest vocalists.

In Hebrew.  42 min.  AGE:  12 to Adult

22

OUR WONDERFUL WORLD (Migalim Et Ha Olam) (2003)

Israeli children’s video which takes kids on a musical journey through the Six Days of Creation as described in the book of Genesis. Israeli children’s television host, Dalik Vilinitz, along with his oversized puppet friend, Stam, take a group of children on a tiyul (trip) to learn about the creation of the world. The children learn about each separate day of creation and sing songs that teach about basic Jewish concepts and values. The songs are chosen from the 12 passages from Bible, Talmud and the Sages that the Lubavitcher Rebbe deemed as important for all children to learn. The children are appealing, the songs and choreography are lively, and the presentation is upbeat. Note: If the English version of this DVD is selected, viewers will hear an English narration with Hebrew subtitles for songs. Viewers may also opt for the all-in-Hebrew tract. Teachers may wish to show the DVD in segments, highlighting one day of creation at a time. Music teachers may wish to focus on the songs alone. The film does not have an overly didactic quality, and young children should find it enjoyable viewing.

50 min.  AGE:  5 to 9

JHVC

F

THE SECRET IN BUBBIE'S ATTIC (1991)

Sec

The Secret in Bubbie’s Attic gives some all-American kids a taste of the Old Country. Upbeat, original holiday songs (there's even a rap music Chanukah tune) and klezmer music mix with jazzed-up versions of Yiddish folktales to give contemporary youngsters a sense of the rich tradition they inherit from their grandparents. While playing hide and seek at their Bubbie's (grandmother's) house, friends stumble across a mysterious attic door. There they find old Hebrew books, a shofar, a tallis bag and a mysterious old trunk. When they open the trunk, out pops a sparkling Jewish genie who can't wait to tell them stories—and reveal an intriguing family secret.

43 min. AGE: 4 to 10

296.41

SHALOM SHABBAT (1994)

Sha

Lively children’s video which presents traditional and contemporary Shabbat songs and stories. Chaim Topol plays "Eliyahu" who visits with Israeli singer Hanny Nachmias’ classroom. Clay animation is used for the stories, which include "Yosef Mokir Shabbat" and the Hassidic tale of the boy who didn’t know how to pray. Perfect for family viewing.

45 min. AGE: 4 to 10

JHVC

781.7

SHIRIM K'TANIM (1990)

Shi

Video series in which the most popular children’s songs are sung by Israeli TV stars, together with a group of children. Combines live footage with animation. Note: The Hebrew level is too difficult for most American students at the age level for which the videos are intended.

In Hebrew with subtitles (transliteration and translation).

8 cassettes. Approx. 45 min. ea. AGE: Aimed at ages 2-6 in Israel

HEBREW SONGS FOR YOUNG CHILDREN - Vol. 1.

Uzi Chitman sings 44 favorite children’s nursery rhymes with colorful animation and special effects.

MORE HEBREW SONGS FOR CHILDREN - Vol. 2.

Uzi Chitman and Hanny Nachmias perform 27 popular nursery rhymes with colorful animation.

BIRTHDAY AND PARTY SONGS - Vol. 3.

Julian Chagrin, Hanny Nachmias and Irit Anavi sing 33 popular birthday and party songs.

AT THE ZOO - Vol.  4. 

Irit Anavi, Julian Chagrin and Yisrael Gurion sing Hebrew songs about animals at the zoo.

HEBREW SONGS FOR CHILDREN: FESTIVALS & SEASONS, Part 1 - Vol. 5.

Uzi Chitman, Hanny Nachmias, and "Aloni"—the singing tree, perform 30 Israeli and Jewish Festival songs. Includes High Holidays through Purim.

FUNNY HEBREW SONGS FOR CHILDREN  - Vol. 6.

Julian Chagrin, Irit Anavi and Sarai Tsuriel perform 24 humorous Israeli songs.

HEBREW SONGS FOR CHILDREN: FESTIVALS & SEASONS, Part 2 - Vol. 7.

Uzi Chitman and Gali Atari perform 32 Israeli and Jewish Festival songs. Includes Passover through summer holidays.

HEBREW SONGS FOR CHILDREN: "I WANT TO BE A ..."  - Vol. 8.

Hanny Nachmias, Irit Anavi and Aharon Perera perform 25 Israeli songs.

Curr

SHLOMO CARLBACH: HIS MUSIC – HIS TEACHINGS – HIS LIFE (1993)

781.7

Shl

The first portion of this video (1 hr. 24 min.) consists of a taped recording of a live concert featuring Rabbi Shlomo Carlbach – both a celebrated and a controversial personality in the Jewish world. Carlbach sings many of his classic songs, interspersed with inspirational words and stories. Following the concert is a 26 minute interview with Carlbach in which he talks about his past and how be became involved with Jewish youth, helping to light a spark of Judaism in their lives. Rabbi Carlbach stresses the importance for Jews today to be able to ignite young people to the depths and soul of Judaism, giving them a sense of spirituality as well as substance. Note: This video does not have a polished, professional feel but does bring viewers into the mind, heart and soul of this legendary Jew.

1 hr. 50 min.  AGE:  12 to Adult

781.7

SING ALONG WITH ISRAEL (1988)

Sin

Israeli scenery, folk dancing and documentary footage provide the background for 22 folk songs. Study guide available. Note: Lyrics are given in both Hebrew and English.

1 hr. AGE: All Ages

915.694

SING AROUND THE SEASONS (Shalom Sesame, Show 7) (1990)

Sha

Sing along with Jeremy Miller and your favorite Sesame Street pals as they celebrate the changing seasons in Israel. Study guide available.

30 min. AGE: 5 to 10

781.7

SING ME A STORY: RABBI JOE BLACK IN CONCERT (1992)

Sin

Reform Rabbi Joe Black plays his guitar and sings Jewish, Hebrew, and holiday songs—some originals and some old favorites—in a live performance. Includes some scenes of families celebrating Jewish holidays.

45 min. AGE: 4 to 10

Sit

(DVD)

Musical and visual montage of the sites, cities and scenes of Israel. This DVD presents 14 of the most popular Israeli songs, pairing them with beautifully photographed scenes from across Israel. Viewers see major cities as well as historical sites, landmarks, tombs and museums. Words appearing on the bottom of the screen indicate which sights are being viewed. Note: An effective film for showing the diversity within Israel and many of its cities and sites. Some of the places are misspelled. Teachers may choose to use one or two songs to highlight specific areas – or show the DVD in its entirety.

40 min.  AGE:  All Ages

914.6

SONG OF THE SEPHARDI (1978)

Son

A feature-length documentary musical film about Sephardic Jewry—its language, words, music and traditions. The film pictorially tells the story of the Sephardim from the Golden Age in Moorish Spain through the years of the Inquisition and the Expulsion in 1492. Also shows the dispersion of the Sephardim to Istanbul, Salonica and Amsterdam. Study guide available.

1 hr. 15 min. AGE: 14 to Adult

781.7

SONGS FOR A SHABBAT (1991)

Son

A group of Moroccan cantors from the USA, Israel and France gathered in Paris to sing hazzanut—religious songs—particularly songs of the Sabbath and love songs. These melodies are in the mode of Andalusian noubas. The cantors met in the Buffault Synagogue to share together in singing these living memories of the Moroccan community. The film includes explanations of the songs and alternates between scenes of the cantors singing and scenes of Moroccan Jewish life. From the French series Morocco, Body and Soul.

In French, Arabic and Hebrew with subtitles. 26 min. AGE: 14 to Adult

296.435

A TASTE OF CHANUKAH: A CELEBRATION OF THE JOYS AND MUSIC OF THE

Tas

HOLIDAY (1999)

Musical celebration of the holiday of Chanukah, hosted by Theodore Bikel. The program includes a broad range of music from around the world and includes performances by the Klezmer Conservatory Band, the Boston Community Gospel Choir, Cantor Morton Shames, and musicians from the New England Conservatory of Music. Bikel provides historical background of the holiday and Yiddish humorist Chasia Segal demonstrates how to make potato latkes. Selections alternate between traditional Chanukah favorites, lighthearted songs, and sacred prayers. Some of the songs include "Oy Chanukah," "8 Candelitas," "Al Shlosha Devarim," "Maoz Tzur" and "I Had A Little Dreidel."

1 hr. AGE: 10 to Adult

296.437

A TASTE OF PASSOVER: A CELEBRATION OF THE JOYS AND MUSIC OF THE

Tas

HOLIDAY (1999)

Hosted by Theodore Bikel, this special program for Passover consists mainly of songs performed by a variety of groups. Commentary for the program was written by humorist Moshe Waldoks, and the show features Cantor David Levine, Yiddishist Chasia Segal, and musicians from Boston’s New England Conservatory. A klezmer band, gospel choir, orchestra and children’s chorus perform as well. The songs span a variety of languages including English, Hebrew, Yiddish and Ladino. Chasia Segal demonstrates how to make the perfect matzo ball, and Theodore Bikel talks about some of the Passover traditions. The concert includes sacred and traditional music as well as some lighter selections.

1 hr. AGE: 10 to Adult

781.7

A TICKLE IN THE HEART (1996)

Tic

Max, Julie and Willie Epstein are three elderly brothers who play Klezmer music together. Produced by a German, Swiss and American filmmaking team, this video tells the story of these Klezmer music legends, musicians of the past who are now on an international comeback tour. It alternates between clips of their performances in various locales and interviews with the brothers, who tell their stories and talk about their music. The men are lively, funny and a bridge between the past and the present.

B&W. 1 hr. 24 min. AGE: 12 to Adult

In 1899, the HaZamir Jewish chorale was formed in Lodz, Poland, where it performed for 40 years (until the Holocaust). Sixty years later, in 1999, the Zamir Chorale of Boston travels to Poland and the Czech Republic, singing the songs of their predecessors – Jewish songs of sorrow, courage and joy. The program provides background on the original Polish chorale and includes interviews with the current Zamir Chorale. The majority of the program, however, presents the Chorale’s renditions of Jewish songs from a time long gone.

60 min.  AGE:  12 to Adult