Browsing by Author "Segal, Sandra Renecia"

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    The role of the cantor and Jewish liturgical music in the Cape Town Jewish orthodox community
    (Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2024-03) Segal, Sandra Renecia; Muller, Danell; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Arts & Social Sciences. Dept. of Music.
    ENGLISH ABSTRACT: This research set out to investigate and document the role of the cantor and his Jewish liturgical musical practices in the Orthodox community of Cape Town. The aim was to document current practices and usage of Jewish liturgical music, allowing comparisons among the cantors working in Cape Town and investigating the emerging trends in other countries. Cape Town has a relatively small Jewish community that appears to be traditional in its Orthodox observances. The research approach was qualitative. The research design was a case study based on primary data. This design allowed for the exploration of opinions and experiences among twelve participants who were interviewed for this study. As the cantor works alongside the rabbi and within his community (and the larger community), the interviewed participants were cantors, rabbis, and Jewish educators. A survey was sent to community members, which gave an understanding of the community’s knowledge and views. The findings of the interviews showed many standard practices and highlighted the differing views of the cantors. The consensus among the cantors is that their role within the synagogue and Jewish liturgical musical traditions remain essential; however, they are willing to embrace new music into the prayer services. The interviews of the rabbis also contained many similarities. Yet, there were valuable and differing opinions on whether the cantor was still required in Cape Town synagogues, and they were less optimistic for the future of the cantorate and Jewish liturgical music. The Jewish educators expanded their educational role in the Cape Town Jewish Day Schools, providing the initial groundwork by equipping the children with the skills, tools and knowledge of Jewish prayers, allowing for future participation in all prayer scenarios. However, they do not see their role as preserving Jewish liturgical traditions. There is a strong sense of tradition within the practices of the Jewish community of Cape Town. Although there is a need to hold onto these traditions, there is also a feeling that Judaism is a living religion and needs to move along with the times. Introducing new song melodies is generally acceptable, but the balance between traditional and modern is continuously scrutinised. Certain aspects of the role of the cantor and Jewish liturgical music are not under negotiation for change, and this was respected amongst all twelve participants.