At the Lubavitch Mesivta of Chicago, the Chassidic musical art of neginah plays a vital role in connecting our students to their heritage. This year, our Nigunim Club, choir, and orchestra have become key extracurricular activities, which provide students meaningful opportunities to engage with traditional Chassidic melodies and express themselves creatively.
The Nigunim Club invites students to immerse themselves in the study and performance of Chabad nigunim—traditional melodies. These tunes, which are often wordless, are powerful in their ability to convey spiritual truths beyond verbal expression.
As seen below, under the mentorship of Rabbi Daniel Goldberg, students explore the historical background and spiritual significance of the nigunim before, during, and after singing them as a group. Each session is carefully crafted to be both an educational experience and a moment of spiritual growth.
Additionally, the student choir and orchestra programs give teens a creative outlet amidst their rigorous studies. These activities allow them to explore their artistic talents and connect with Chassidic music in a meaningful way. Whether harmonizing with peers in the choir or mastering an instrument in the orchestra, students build confidence, develop discipline, and deepen their appreciation for our rich musical traditions.
At key points throughout the year, the students perform the Chassidic melodies they've worked so hard to master, bringing the music out of the classroom and into the community. Whether they’re singing in front of their peers, playing for their families, or bringing joy to residents in local nursing homes, the students report that they feel a deep sense of accomplishment.
These accomplishments are the result of the generous support of the Ralla Klepak Foundation for Education in the Performing Arts, which has enriched our student body and the broader community in so many ways.
