How & Why Do Nusach Chant Modes Work?
Join Cantor Brian Mayer for an EAJL Masterclass
When we hear chanting in the synagogue, we notice the distinctive Nusach chant modes that sustain the flow of the liturgy. We may wonder, how do these chant modes work; how are they formed; how are they applied, and why?
In this interactive masterclass, Cantor Dr. Brian Mayer will address the aforementioned questions about Nusach and its chant modes. We will hear how the modes sound, listen to examples of how they are applied, and learn the logic behind this Ashkenazi liturgical musical system.
This one-off masterclass will take place on Sunday, 8th June 2025 at 19:30 - 20:45 BST*.
Course cost: £18.00, Concessions: £10.00 *All times UK, adjust to your local time zone.
EAJL strives to be accessible to individuals and communities with restricted budgets, which is why we ask for donations to help subsidise other students, thereby allowing them to study with us. A concession rate is available for individuals who are unable to afford the full cost of the course, but if you are in a need for a higher subsidy, please contact us in confidence at subsidy@eajl.org
Meet the Teacher
Cantor Brian Mayer
Cantor Mayer is a recently retired associate professor of Jewish Music and was the dean of the School of Jewish Music at Hebrew College in Boston. He taught for 14 years at the Jewish Theological Seminary (JTS) in New York as an assistant professor of Hazzanut. He was ordained at JTS, where he later earned a Doctor of Sacred Music degree.
