I’ve just received the heart-wrenching news that Debbie Friedman passed away. Musician, composer, songwriter, singer, Debbie Friedman invented modern Jewish music. Where once there were mostly traditional synagogue melodies and ponderous “hymns,” Debbie Friedman created Jewish songs with soaring melodies, spirited and spiritual lyrics. In addition to her original works, Debbie composed music for words of Torah, sacred Jewish writings, and prayer texts. In her songs, she also celebrated life-cycle events both joyous and poignant.
Debbie Friedman entertained and led songs at Jewish camps, synagogues, and organizational gatherings. Debbie’s songs are meant to be experienced, to evoke deep emotions. Her songs are meant to inspire, teach, strengthen, comfort, and heal.
Her memorable performances were a highlight of the annual CAJE Conferences (the former Conference on Alternatives in Jewish Education) – and that is where I first experienced Debbie Friedman’s music. During the CAJE Conferences, Debbie would offer a series of workshops where she taught her songs and even tried out different versions of compositions she was working on. All were welcome. No special musical talent was required (which made it possible for an off-key singer like myself to join in). At the closing program, on the last night of CAJE, Debbie brought all of her workshop participants out on the stage and led them in the songs they’d practiced. The only way I can describe the thrill of being in “Debbie’s Chorale” is to borrow a phrase from psychologist Abraham Maslow and call it a “Peak Experience,” the best of the best!
It was at a CAJE Conference that Debbie taught us her healing song, “Mi Shebeirach.” We all cried as we sang and thought of those close to us who were “…in need of healing with r’fuah sh’leimah.”
“Mi Shebeirach” is now a part of the Healing Service in the siddur of the Reform Movement, Mishkan T’filah.
One more memory…On a snowy day in January, 1996, I traveled to Manhattan with several family members to hear Debbie Friedman perform at Carnegie Hall – or as she dubbed it,
“Beth Carnegie.” While the blizzard outside turned increasingly fierce, the audience of over 1700 felt only the warmth and excitement of singing with Debbie.
Over the years, I’ve collected Debbie Friedman’s records, then tapes, then CD’s. But, from today, when I listen to them it will be with a touch of sadness and a sense of gratitude for the musical legacy that Debbie Friedman has left to the Jewish community and to the world.
In her song, “Save a Life,” Debbie sings:
“Darkness fades, the morning light appears.
Shadows dance and come to greet the day.
The voices of angels sing,
Words of comfort whispering,
Save a life and you will save the world.”
I don’t know if there truly are angels in the World-To-Come, but if there is a Heavenly Chorale, they’ll be singing Debbie Friedman’s songs.
Debbie Friedman – Zichrona L’Bracha
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