Explore how Israel’s music and culture have shaped each other.
ONLINE
TUESDAY, 2:00-3:30pm (ET), October 28 - November 4, 2025
“The mountain air is clear as wine, and the scent of pines is carried on the breeze of twilight… Jerusalem of gold, and of bronze, and of light; behold—I am a violin for all your songs.”
— Naomi Shemer, “Jerusalem of Gold” (Yerushalayim Shel Zahav)
Course Description:
In this two-week mini course, we’ll explore how Israel’s unique blend of Jewish and non-Jewish musical traditions—shaped by influences from the Middle East, Asia, and Europe—has created a vibrant and distinctive soundscape. From folk songs to contemporary compositions, Israel’s music both reflects and shapes the nation’s identity, serving as a powerful expression of its history, cultural diversity, and national spirit. Discover how melodies and rhythms tell the story of a land and a people in constant dialogue.
Tuesdays, 2:00 - 3:30 pm (ET)
Dr. Alan Mason is a graduate of the University of Miami, where he was awarded the Doctor of Music Arts degree in 1993, and the Manhattan School of Music, where he was awarded the Bachelor of Music and Master of Music degrees. Additionally, Alan has completed Post Doctoral studies at Northwestern University (Operatic and Vocal Accompanying), and Hebrew Union College (Liturgy and Worship for Synagogue Musical Directors). Alan is Professor Emeritus of at Barry University, where he retired in 2014, and presently teaches Music History for the Osher Lifelong Learning Institutes at the University of Miami and FIU, and JCC-U at the Miami Beach JCC. Alan is the Director of Music at Bet Shira Congregation, and the conductor of HaZamir Miami, a chapter of HaZamir: The International Jewish Teen Choir.
