Worship Music

Music has the pow­er to fill us with joy and move us to tears.

Whether it’s the lively guitar chords of a Jewish camp song or the somber strains of the choir at Kol Nidre, music has always played a central role at Beth Emet.

At Beth Emet, we pride ourselves in being a singing congregation, where music plays a central role and is never a spectator sport.

From concerts to choirs, classes to “jam sessions,” and Shabbat shira (song) services, music is infused into the fabric of everything we do at Beth Emet in worship, learning, and daily life.

Several times a year, Beth Emet focuses on the power of music during Shabbat Shirah, an entirely sung Kabbalat Shabbat service. The selection of the melodies, which range from the soulful and contemplative to the joyful and exuberant, intends to encourage all to sing along.

If a particular melody or liturgy is unfamiliar, following along with “la, la, la” will always do.

On Sunday, November 16, 2025, Cantor Young gathered singers and musicians from our community and beyond to celebrate healing through music at Beth Emet’s Be The Light Concert. Musicians from across Chicagoland presented our Cantor’s original work.

“Our Be the Light Concert felt nothing short of magical,” said Cantor Young. “I am so grateful to be part of such a talented, generous, and collaborative community.”

The concert included a debut performance of Kochavim, Beth Emet’s new youth choir, and an interfaith pop-up choir singing a new composition, “Sing,” as well as the title song “Be The Light.” It was an afternoon to remember.

We are truly blessed.