ENGLISH CORNER, CON LINDA JIMÉNEZ – This week’s trivia question: What problem did Neshama Carlebach face with the Orthodox Jewish community after her father died?
Neshama Carlebach is the daughter of the late Rabbi Shlomo Carlebach, who was a singer, rabbi, and spiritual leader, and is considered by many to be the foremost Jewish religious songwriter of the 20th century. Neshama is an award-winning singer, songwriter and educator in her own right, and has performed and taught in cities around the world. She was one of the creators and performers of the musical Soul Doctor, which tells her father’s story and features his music. It ran on Broadway and was also performed in other cities in the United States, Canada and Israel.
She collaborates with musicians of different faiths and has performed at countless concerts and gatherings for audiences of all ages and backgrounds. She was the first Orthodox woman of her generation to perform for a mixed-gender audience, and is a strong advocate for religious pluralism and human rights.
Since her debut album, Soul, in 1996, Neshama has released 10 records, which showcase her versatility and her unique blend of various genres including classic Hebrew folk songs, contemporary pop music, jazz and gospel. Her most recent release, Believe, features her band and a gospel choir led by Pastor Milton Vann.
