Worship at Rockdale Temple is enhanced by sacred music. Music is led during our services by a diverse group of soloists and musical ensembles. On Shabbat, we have the opportunity to join with our songleaders, as well as Rockdale’s Adult Choir, Shir Shalom, and the Rock Shabbat Band.

Each High Holy Days season, thanks to the Trager Family Music Fund, congregants enjoy the beautiful melodies played by a brass quartet featuring trumpets and trombones.  We also welcome our vocal quartet, led by Mary Southworth. When we gather together to pray and celebrate as a community, we are all able to lend our voices in song.

volunteer adult choir--shir shalom

The Rockdale Adult Choir, Shir Shalom, is open to all adult members, including high school students. The adult choir is made up of a small, spirited group of singers and friends. Our choir meets on Tuesday evenings at 7:00PM to sing and practice together. The group sings songs that range from traditional Jewish tunes, to newer pieces, and older “classical Reform” favorites. Some songs are choral pieces with multiple parts and harmonies, whereas others are sung in unison or in a round. The choir leads the music once a month at Rockdale’s Friday evening services and other special events. Basic music reading skills are helpful but not necessary–the only mandatory qualification is a love for Jewish music and a desire to sing. For more information, please contact the Temple office at 513.891.9900

rock Shabbat band

Rockdale Temple's Rock Shabbat Band leads the congregations monthly Rock Shabbat service--an evening filled with upbeat, contemporary Jewish music. The Rock Shabbat Band is comprised of congregants who bring their unique skills and musical talents to our community. The group plays contemporary Jewish music with a focus on accoustic, camp-style tunes. The goal of the Rock Shabbat Band is to expose the community to an exciting range of Jewish sacred music, while encouraging participation and congregational singing. The Rock Shabbat Band invites our congregation and community to join in song every month during Rock Shabbat services.