History

The reputation of Temple Israel grew nationally during the fifties. We sent delegates to the Union of American Hebrew Congregations, our Religious School became one of the first to receive accreditation, but most of all we achieved national renown as a result of our music.

Under the guidance of Dr. Isidore Freed, our music took on a new dimension. At Friday evening and High Holiday services, the music did not merely supplement the prayers, it set the mood for worship and intensified the religious experience. Appreciation came from all over the United States for the patterns he had set up, which many other congregations eagerly followed. Almost a hundred works including operas, choral music, and instrumental works flowed from his talented hands. Unlike other prodigies who leave their work to explore more lucrative fields, Dr. Freed remained faithful to the roots and sources of the Jewish people. His untimely passing in November 1960 was a loss deeply felt in music circles worldwide.

In 1953, Cantor Lohre, who had joined the Temple in 1936, informed the Board of his ill health and a desire to retire. A special committee listened to a number of candidates for the position and finally chose David Benedict, a member of our own choir, who became a valued associate of the temple family.

In 1961, David Benedict was appointed to the then vacant post of music director. He ably followed in Dr. Freed’s footsteps. His first major accomplishment was the initiation of an annual Spring Concert – the first one honoring Dr. Freed. Throughout the year he produced a series of spring, fall, and winter Music Festivals. He developed and molded a choir, which was second to none nationwide and initiated novel instrumental and dance concerts. He had a wonderful rapport with the students of our temple, and his operalogues and lectures for adult education were eagerly awaited. He composed complete Sabbath services and adaptations of biblical passages. His recording of a Temple Israel service was heard around the world.

Currently, Cantor Makaveyev leads our popular Congregational Choir.