Ancient nigunim (songs) and soulful melodies, including a nigun by the Ba'al Shem Tov and the rousing Bandits' Nigun. A cappella or accompanied on fiddle, flutes, bouzouki, guitar, darbouka, davul (drums), yayley tanbur (Turkish 'cello'). "Mike Tabor is one in the world - with unbelievable talent and charm he brings the heaven of music to earth and kindles the old fire again." - Rabbi Shlomo Carlebach
"Come my beloved to greet the bride, the Sabbath presence let us welcome..." (Braslaver Hasidim) The Sabbath gently steals in with the very beginnings of dusk. It is compared to a queen coming to visit her subjects, bestowing peace and serenity. This prayer is sung universally in synagogues. Male Vocals, Middle East, Jewish Folk
This is a traditional melody used to lead the bride and groom to the wedding canopy (Chupah) under which they will be married. Its measured, stately nature reflects the solemnity of the occasion, and the trepidation of the young couple. Instrumental, Middle East, Jewish Folk
This is a deeply contemplative tune in the "d'yakus" tradition. The singing of these gentle, yearning tunes would develop true concentration and inner closeness to the Almighty. Male Vocals, Middle East, Jewish Folk
A great esoteric figure of Hasidism was Reb Nachman of Braslay. This rousing and dignified processional was one of his many compositions. Witnesses affirm that its effect was electrifying when he himself sang it. The words are deeply mystical, comprising an entire allegorical poem in Aramaic. Male Vocals, Middle East, Jewish Folk
This very old nigun is attributed to the founder of the Hasidic movement (this recording happened to be made on the anniversary of his birth!). Its contemplative form later inspired numerous intimate, yearning compositions. Instrumental, Middle East, Jewish Folk
The "Donkey" Nigun Each year Jews flock to Aileron in northern Israel, to visit the tomb of the great mystical sage, Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochoi. Instrumental, Middle East, Jewish Folk
A rhythmic nigun with a strong Mediterranean flavour used to entertain the bride and groom. This slowly rising melody accompanies an ever-popular dance-mime, often at the height of the wedding, called "Tchlas Ha'Maisim" the Awakening of the Dead. Male Vocals, Middle East, Jewish Folk
This is a simple nigun work folk tune with Yiddish words. "Yesterday's gone and tomorrow's yet to come". All we have is the present moment what is the point of worrying?... vos darf mir sorgen?" Male Vocals, Middle East, Jewish Folk
Baym Rebins Sude At the Rabbi's table Klezmer tune made famous by the Abe Schwartz Orchestra in 1917, showing the obvious influence of Hassidic style. Male Vocals, Middle East, Jewish Folk
After the end of the Sabbath, there is a traditional meal bidding farewell to this holy day. Like all partings, the loss of its heightened spirituality is difficult. We light a single candle on the table and try to make the sweet atmosphere of the Sabbath linger as long as possible. Male Vocals, Middle East, Jewish Folk
This mystical prayer concludes the dawn service during the weeks of the High Holy Days. The Jew turns to his Maker stripped of every pretence and sophistication. The heartfelt, throbbing sound of the bouzouki and Turkish 'cello' (yayley tanbur) particularly suit this nigun. Male Vocals, Middle East, Jewish Folk
"... and be joyful" (Deuteronomy) The Jewish heritage stresses the importance of joy ("simcha"). The Hasidim re-emphasized it as a vital vehicle for all spiritual growth and development. This nigun is a lively version of the Biblical verse telling us this. The tune is known world-wide. Male Vocals, Middle East, Jewish Folk
This powerful tune has strong Russian, Slavic, Greek and even Levantine elements. Its intensity is infectious. A "Varbrengen" (bringing together) is a warm and intimate gathering where Hasidim are inspired by a blend of story-telling, singing and learning to strengthen their faith and bonds. Male Vocals, Middle East, Jewish Folk
"a glimpse of heaven" On the Sabbath the Jew can attain great spiritual heights through devoting his whole day to an entirely religious atmosphere of relaxation, joy and learning Torah. Thus the Sabbath is seen as "a glimpse of heaven" amidst our hectic physical existence. Male Vocals, Middle East, Jewish Folk
An introduction to the potency of folk music The Hasidic leader, the Ba'al Shem Toy, emphasized the spiritual potential one should find in every experience. Male Vocals, Middle East, Jewish Folk
