What it is about
Dr. Ariel Lazarus is leading the Israeli Ladino Orchestra in a bid to preserve and refresh the rich traditions of Ladino music during the annual Jewish Days Festival at Bar Ilan University. The festival will take place from May 27-29 and features an array of Jewish musical traditions.
Why it matters
The endeavor highlights the vital role Israel plays in sustaining Jewish cultural heritage. By bridging historic traditions with contemporary interpretations, Lazarus ensures that these vibrant melodies resonate with modern audiences, fostering cultural continuity.
Tradition and Evolution
On May 27, Lazarus will perform alongside six instrumentalists and vocalist Shir Yifrach. The program focuses on songs stemming from the Haketia tradition, blending Ladino with Arabic influences from North Africa and Gibraltar. Descendants of Spanish Exiles in Gibraltar, like Lazarus himself, inherit and transform these legacies.
Preserving and Innovating
The aim is not merely to preserve but also to weave originality into the tapestry of tradition. Lazarus believes the infusion of new elements keeps the music alive and vibrant. “Tradition evolves with each generation,” he notes, discussing how his grandfather, a long-serving cantor in Gibraltar, added personal touches to traditional Portuguese melodies.
Relevance to the Present
Lazarus underscores the enduring relevance of Ladino music’s storytelling to contemporary events. In one performance, the song “Al pasar por Casablanca” reveals tales of kidnapping and familial love, tragically resonating with current developments.
Songs Reflective of the Times
Lazarus will also debut a song titled “Yagel”, containing poignant lines about sorrow and hope inspired by events and aftermath of October 7. The song seeks to blend mourning with faith and trust in a better future.
Diversity and Fusion
The Israeli Ladino Orchestra symbolizes cultural fusion. The ensemble includes diverse and talented musicians, like Marina Toshich on oud, and promising vocalist Shir Yifrach, specializing in liturgical singing. The festival’s wide-ranging program encompasses music from Salonika, and panels addressing Israeli music post-October 7.
Unity through Music
Artistic director Dr. Yuval Rabin emphasizes the festival’s spirit of unity and mutual empowerment, advocating understanding across cultural differences which he believes is crucial in Judaism. “Unity is not uniformity,” he says, stressing inclusivity.
This story was first published on jpost.com.