Great Performances Season 38 Episode 89
Great Performances
Season 38

Ep 89. Rejoice with Itzhak Perlman and Cantor Yitzchak Meir Helfgot

  • August 28, 2014

In this episode of Great Performances, renowned violinist Itzhak Perlman and cantor Yitzchak Meir Helfgot come together for an evening of music. The concert, titled "Rejoice," features a blend of Jewish liturgical and traditional music, with Perlman's virtuoso violin playing weaving seamlessly with Helfgot's powerful and emotive singing.

The concert takes place at the historic Congregation Kehilath Jeshurun Synagogue on New York's Upper East Side, a fitting venue for the spiritual and celebratory nature of the music. As the performance begins, Perlman and Helfgot take the stage to thunderous applause, and launch into the first of their pieces.

Throughout the evening, the two performers showcase their incredible talents, both individually and in collaboration. Perlman's violin playing is, as always, a marvel to behold, with his nimble fingers and soaring melodies filling the space with sound. Helfgot's voice is equally impressive, with its deep, resonant tone and ability to convey both exaltation and introspection.

The repertoire for the evening includes traditional Jewish prayers and songs, as well as some more contemporary works. Perlman and Helfgot are joined on stage by a group of talented musicians, including a string quartet, keyboard player, and percussionist. Together, they create a rich sound that is at once reverential and joyful.

One of the highlights of the concert is the duo's performance of "Sh'ma Yisrael," a traditional prayer that is considered the most important in Jewish liturgy. Perlman's violin playing is particularly breathtaking here, with his notes soaring high above Helfgot's powerful singing. Another standout is "A Dudele," a Yiddish lullaby that Helfgot delivers with gentle tenderness.

Throughout the performance, Perlman and Helfgot display a deep love and reverence for the music they are creating. Despite the grandness of the synagogue setting and the impressive technical skill on display, there is a sense of intimacy and personal connection that comes through in every note. This is particularly evident during the moments when the two performers engage in dialogue with each other, with Perlman's violin and Helfgot's voice seeming to engage in a conversation all their own.

As the concert draws to a close, Perlman and Helfgot lead the audience in a rousing rendition of "Hatikvah," the national anthem of Israel. The entire room seems to come alive with emotion, with everyone standing and singing along. It's a fitting end to a truly uplifting evening of music.

"Rejoice" is a testament to the power of music to uplift and inspire. Perlman and Helfgot's remarkable talents are on full display, but it is the sense of community, connection, and joy that truly makes this concert unforgettable. Whether you are a lover of Jewish music or simply appreciate incredible performances, this episode of Great Performances is not to be missed.

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Description
  • First Aired
    August 28, 2014
  • Language
    English