“If words are the pen of the heart,” the Alter Rebbe famously declared, “song is the pen of the soul.”
Recognizing music’s central role in Chabad culture, the faculty and students of Yeshivas Ohr Eliyahu – Lubavitch Mesivta of Chicago recently released a moving album featuring six beloved Chassidic melodies.
Available as both an audio recording and a music video, the new release offers a unique window into authentic Chabad yeshiva life. Filmed on a professionally arranged set that evokes the warmth and intimacy of a Shabbos meal, the music reflects the deeply contemplative, soul-stirring songs traditionally sung during the final, spiritual hours of Shabbos.
The album showcases the collective musical talent of 28 students, including three keyboardists a violinist, and a full ensemble of vocalists.
After weeks of preparation and meticulous rehearsal, the students were joined on set by renowned tenor Cantor Aryeh Leib Hurwitz.
Capturing the Spirit of Shabbos
Recording such a large group presented challenges, but organizers insisted on keeping the experience authentic.
“It was crucial to capture the true end-of-Shabbos atmosphere,” one faculty member explained, “where more than 100 students often join in heartfelt song, rising together in a crescendo of emotion.”
“I was very impressed with the Mesivta students and faculty,” said Hurwitz, recalling his first experience singing with the students after a past fundraising event.
“Everyone worked together so smoothly and seamlessly, with a common goal of enhancing the experience of every student.”
That goal is also at the heart of Mesivta’s Niggunim Club, which supports musically inclined students year-round. The club’s efforts were also featured this winter when the Chicago community gathered for the annual Siyum Harambam. Amidst an inspiring program of speakers, the student band and choir performed, previewing some of the same melodies now featured on the album.
Made Possible Through Generosity
This special musical project—and many other initiatives like it—was made possible through a generous grant from the Ralla Klepak Foundation for Education in the Performing Arts.
Watch the Music Video Here:
Full Audio Playlist Available Now on Chabad.org:
