Oaks Lane community gets in the swing of things for Shabbat

‘Shalom Aleichem, peace be upon you’, is one of the traditional greetings of the Jewish people, to the angels which accompany us throughout the day and is repeated at the start of Shabbat.

Whilst the traditional Shabbat music might conjure the angels descending in floating files, at Oaks Lane Reform Synagogue, the angels and the congregation were tapping their toes and moving their feet like a New Orleans jazz parade blessed with Yiddishkeit. 

Sabra Swing, led by Essex local Sara Feldmann Brummer, brought out the hidden complexities of the traditional liturgy through its complex chords, and syncopated rhythms.  Of particular note, was the soulful improvisation of violinist Miriam Kramer, whose artistry lifted the congregation’s prayers towards the heavens without making the service into a performance. 

Friday night worship at Oaks Lane Reform, is rotated with many of the other Essex and East London Progressive (and Masorti) communities in their synagogue buildings. 

Sara said: “I am really delighted that the Jazz Shabbat went so well and am delighted we are going to be able to do it again around Chanukah time.”