Finally, Hazzanut for Women and Guitar playing Cantors!
The first songbook of classic hazzanut in singable keys for women ( and men) is coming out in early April. KATCHKO Three Generations of Cantorial Art is a dream come true for granddaughter, Cantor Deborah Katchko-Gray. Using her grandfather's revered music, still taught in cantorial schools , she added guitar chords for a new synthesis of acoustic guitar or simple piano, and the vocal richness of hazzanut.
Until now, women cantors had to struggle with difficult keys intended for tenors and baritones- The cantorial gems for Shabbat, Three Festivals, and High Holydays will find a place in any cantor's musical menu. A unique CD is included that has rare recordings of three generations of cantors, Adolph, Theodore and Deborah. Deborah has added guitar to her father's voice and some harmonies- it is bittersweet as her father passed away in l997, and they are now reunited in prayer and song on this CD.
Having the recording gives the listener a better feel for the art of hazzanut as it sounded 50 years ago and today with a woman's voice. It is the first traditional hazzanut recording that has three generations and a woman's perspective. It is hoped that cantors will rediscover the majestic beauty of Katchko's music and use it either with guitar, acapello or with simple piano chords.
The book also contains several lectures previously unpublished on hazzanut with musical examples. It is a treasure chest of discussion on the future of hazzanut, the importance of nusach- prayer modes, and suggestions to improve as a cantor. Cantor Katchko was a master teacher of cantors and his essays show his dedication to the cantorate. Photos of Cantor Katchko and Cantor Zavel Kwartin singing together on a mountaintop are priceless! Family photos are included. Truly a sourcebook for the lover of hazzanut!
The book is being published by TARA publications. Velvel Pasternak generously believed in this project and it's meaning for today's cantorate. Forward by Cantor Jacob Mendelson, and intro by Rabbi Jon Haddon.
