The Choir that Disappeared

Abstract

With the rise of the Nazis in Germany, thousands of Jews lost their jobs, including many artists. In response to this situation, and sponsored by the Jewish community in Berlin, the conductor, composer and arranger Nechemia Winabar established a male choir, compiled of Jewish singers whom had lost their positions as opera soloists. In addition to its high artistic standards, Winabar regarded this choir as a means to preserve the melodies which he had arranged for ceremonies in the Synagogue. The choir traveled throughout Europe and performed in major venues in Prague, Vienna and in many synagogues. It received outstanding reviews in the Jewish and general press, and quickly gained a global reputation which spread beyond Europe, to the United States and to Israel as well. After a short time, the choir arrived in Israel, however, soon disbanded, mainly due to financial difficulties.