The United Synagogue

Shabbaton Choir Joins Students at Yeshivat Mercaz HaRav To Mark Anniversary Of Tragic Shooting

PRESS RELEASE

London,
2nd March 2009

SHABBATON CHOIR JOINS STUDENTS AT YESHIVAT MERCAZ HARAV TO MARK ANNIVERSARY OF TRAGIC SHOOTING

The United Synagogue and Shabbaton Choir's sixth annual Solidarity Through Song Mission joined students at Yeshivat Mercaz HaRav last week to mark the first anniversary of the tragic shootings where eight young students were murdered. On the eve of their yahrzeits, the Choir performed in the library where the students were murdered to pay tribute to their memory.

The fifty-two members of the Solidarity Through Song Mission were led by the Chief Rabbi, Sir Jonathan Sacks, together with Elaine Sacks, Dr. Simon Hochhauser, President of the United Synagogue, Peter Sheldon, President of the Choir, and Stephen Levey, Composer and Musical Director of the Choir. The Choir performed at more venues than ever before during the five day mission to demonstrate their solidarity with those who have suffered in the recent war in Gaza as well as victims of acts of terror, illness or disability.

As part of the mission, the group visited Barzilai Hospital in Ashkelon whose underground facilities were set up during the recent Gaza conflict to treat both Israeli and Palestinian casualties. Other highlights included a visit to Re'uth Medical Centre in Tel Aviv where the group met with wounded soldiers in rehabilitation after the war; singing for children at an absorption centre in the south of Israel; and hosting a concert in Ashdod in aid of the Medical Centre.

The group also spent a very special Shabbat in Herziliya where they were joined by 250 others including members of the expatriate British community, participants of the TRIBE Israel Leadership Training Programme, 20 secondary school pupils participating in TRIBE/JNF's Ambassador programme and 50 JFS students who are staying at Kibbutz Lavie.

Dr Simon Hochhauser, President of United Synagogue and choir member, commented: "This year's visit was remarkable, particularly because we were able to visit and perform at so many different schools, hospitals, day centres and care homes, bringing our music and entertainment to those who have so recently suffered. Our visit to Yeshivat Mercaz HaRav was particularly moving, and it was very special for us to be able to stand in solidarity with the students and teachers, and support them during a very difficult and emotional time."


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