CHASSIDIC

Di Historje fun Chassidisher Musik

The Hasidic tradition is old and varied and has had a great influence on klezmer music. Many nigunim (melodies) composed by the rebbes of various dynasties from the 18th and 19th centuries are still sung today. Many, notably of Rabbi Shlomo Carlebach, have been composed during our lifetimes. Sometimes, the melodies of secular songs were used for sanctified purposes. This happens today, as well - thus, you may occasionally recognise a Napoleonic march or the rock group The Smiths. In the future we hope to be adding more items that Hasidim who live apart from the secular world listen to.

The importance of nigunim - melodies with and without words - is utmost in the Khasidic tradition. Used during and after davenen (praying), to sing at yontif (holiday time) and shabes (Sabbath), they serve to uplift and unite. The sources of the melodies are varied both in origin and geography. Some were/are composed by Khasidic rebes (spiritual leaders of the various Khasidic communities) and their followers. Some are secular tunes from non-Jewish sources - Napoleonic marches, drinking songs, even rock and roll tunes. In 18th and 19th century Europe, followers of particular rebes often lived in different areas and brought melodies with them from home when they made often long journeys to visit their rebe on special occasions. Like other Jewish music, regardless of the origin of the tune, as a nigun, the melody became Jewish - by using various stylisitc characteristics like the krekht (moan) and formally, by being sanctified, the melody no longer is considered a secular one if it was lifted from a secular source!

Nigunim are also a vital part of the klezmer style. Andy Statman posits that to play klezmer in the traditional European style, one must understand the Khasidic style of singing. He points out that two of the most influential klezmorim (klezmer musicians) of the 20th century, the Ukrainian-born Dave Tarras, and Galicianer Naftule Brandwein were both members of distinguished Khasidic klezmer dynasties and that this is reflected in their playing styles.

The stereotype of a Hassidic (or Chassidic) Jewish person is an old man wearing a black suit and a long beard. While many Hassids do adhere to strict standards of d unim traditionally was a way of communicating Jewish stories and legends.

Chassidic Niggunim should not be confused with cantorial music, which are the liturgical melodies heard in the synagogue to accompany prayer. The cantor (known also as a chazzan) leads the prayers, chanting them, usually in Hebrew, to specific melodies.

Oj, Oj, Oj .... ,