Welcoming Shabbat is always a special time of the week. The multi-generational Shabbat Simcha Band and the JLC students made it even more special on March 4, when they led services with great “ruach” (“spirit”) and confidence.

Special thanks to Sarah Birnbaum for preparing the children so well and for organizing a family dinner so that we can celebrate Shabbat together.

I would like to personally thank all the band members, each of whom brings a special talent and commitment to the band. As one of our newest members, “Moreh” Mitch Radler on the guitar adds a wonderful dimension to our band. He wore two “kippot” on Friday night; as JLC music teacher he accompanied the children on guitar and led the congregation in many beautiful prayers.

Special thanks to Eli F., Alan B., Elliot L. and Sebastian P. who play alto saxophone with great gusto. Sebastian has been with the band since we started six years ago and we appreciate his loyalty and his musicianship.

Sam L. on drums and Dr. Ken Bannerman on bass are also original band members. We love how they help us keep the beat and add their unique sound. We hope to have Sam and Sebastian in the band until they leave for college in a couple of years.

Mike T. on violin, new members Josephine K. on guitar and Zeke S. on cello all strengthen our string section. Carney Mimms helps with percussion.

Conductor Mark Weinstein leads the most productive and fun rehearsals. Without Mark conducting and Sarah Steindel transposing music, we would have silence.

Marge, Marita, Carlos and Armando help with photo-copying and provide pizza, a clean rehearsal area.

We appreciate all their hard work.

Rabbi Greenstein, as always, attends rehearsals and encourages us all to reach our potential.

If you liked what you heard this past Shabbat, please join us on Purim, Wednesday, March 23. The Shabbat Band will transform into the Purim Band. For sure, the SIMCHA part of our name will remain. If you would like join the Purim band, our first and only rehearsal will be on Wed. March 16 at 6:15 immediately after JLC classes. Please let me know if you can attend and I will e-mail you music.

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Merrill Silver

Merrill Silver is a long-time member of Shomrei. She can often be seen at the piano as part of the Simcha Band, a cross-generational musical ensemble she organizes at Shomrei. She and her husband Andy host "Minyan @ Home" the Wednesday night Maariv service at their home. She has tutored many of Shomrei's B'nai Mitzvah kids in leading services and chanting Torah.

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