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Jazz Shabbat
This original program combines traditional liturgical music with innovative and compelling jazz arrangements. It is a prayer service that respects the sanctity of worship, while generating a spiritual energy through the rhythms and harmonies of jazz.
Any congregation interested in producing Jazz Shabbat may choose to have Mark work in collaboration with the resident Cantor/Soloist and choir. Other options include contracting local professional and congregational jazz musicians to form a larger ensemble to accompany the service.
Jazz Shabbat is not a concert, lecture, or demonstration, rather an actual Shabbat service that invites congregational participation. The resulting synergy between the pulpit and congregation illustrates the dramatic relationship of Keva (fixed structured prayer) and Kavannah (devotional, interpretive prayer).
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That's Edutainment
Educational Fun for Kids
Concerts, song leading sessions and workshops are an exciting way to enlist participation for students, preschool through high school. Mark specializes in performing interactive original material, using humor and intelligence, to teach positive values and celebrate Jewish life.
Youth chorale workshops are always a hit with elementary age groups. Older students enjoy the opportunity to develop their instrumental and vocal skills, while confirmation classes often choose a performance or discussion program more in touch with a teenager's perspective on Jewish music.
From simple "sing-a-longs," to master classes on songwriting technique, Mark leads each group towards a heartfelt appreciation of their ethnic and religious heritage. You'll discover why Mark has been a featured presenter and performer at four of the last five URJ Biennial conferences, and nine of the last ten CAJE conferences!
The Art of Kavannah
This workshop will inspire a dialogue designed to engage collective and personal spirituality.
Discover compelling relationships between Jewish secular and religious music that challenge us to honor tradition as we move in new directions. Investigate the notion of using jazz improvisation as a metaphor for prayer, noting the striking parallels between the art of davening and "scat singing."
You will examine the camp/folk movement of the 60s and consider what has brought it to an accepted "establishment" musical form today.