Musical Engagement

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“How is it that music can, without words, evoke our laughter, our fears, our highest aspirations?”

– Jane Swan

Temple Israel has maintained a rich and beloved musical tradition dating back to its 19th century roots. Through the years, music of all styles has been played, sung, conducted, and celebrated by Temple Israel members and guest artists. This tradition continues with the voice and spirit of our community today. After all, “singing is praying twice.”

Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel once said, “The wave of a song carries the soul to heights which utterable meanings can never reach.” Our Shabbat services, weekday minyan, healing services, and special musical events all broadly represent the varied influences of our musical tradition and the voices of our congregation.

At Temple Israel of Boston, all voices are welcome. Come sing with us…and until then, you can listen and sing along with some of our music below.

Songs of Hope and Healing

Cantor Alicia Stillman's Songs


Duet of Hope


Elohai Netzur


Kehila Kedosha


One Voice


Peace Saalam Shalom


Temple Israel Hashiveinu

Our Musical Programs

Rock The Riverway

is Temple Israel’s youth choir. Children of elementary school age are invited to meet weekly on Sundays with Cantor Stillman to learn holiday music and ‘rockin’ congregational repertoire. Rock The Riverway singers bring their ruach (spirit) and voices to the community through participation at Qabbalat Shabbat services, performance videos shared at various events and holiday services, as well as community gatherings around Boston.

TI Teen Choir

This choir is for Temple Israel’s more experienced young singers (grades 7-12) who are ready to meet and sing with others who love music. The teen choir experiments with more advanced music and events in the community.

Teen Band

Our teen band rehearses and plays at various Religious School services and Temple Israel events. Welcoming players of all instruments: guitar, piano, drums, wind instruments, and horns. If you play and love music, this is for you!

TI Band

The TI Band is a lively assembly of Temple Israel musicians. From amateur music-lovers to musical professionals, The TI Band regularly joins the clergy and the congregation to enhance the spirit and musical life of worship and festivities at Temple Israel. The band is a beloved staple at Qabbalat Shabbat services, High Holy Day worship, and various celebrations and special events.

If you are interested in joining any of these programs please contact

Cantor Alicia Stillman.

David Trietsch, Temple Israel Member

“Temple Israel's core identity is one of a diverse, urban congregation. Music provides a bridge and entry point that helps bring us together in prayer, spiritual connection, and community. Our Cantor is the maestro who uses the power of music to reach out, engage our spirits and bring us comfort.”

Bea Wilderman, Temple Israel Member

“Music is an integral part of worship at Temple Israel. Music is spiritual, a way to communicate feelings and to bring people together. Our cantor is the person who makes music accessible to us.”

Alison Freedman, Temple Israel Member

“Music initially drew me to Temple Israel through the Riverway Project’s energetic Soul Food Friday service. Fast forward over a decade, add a husband and two kids, and music still plays a key role in my TI experience. My 4 and 6 year olds love the musical programming and my husband and I love seeing them so engaged in their Jewish experience.”

Carol Targum, Temple Israel Member

“Music is at the core of worship. It brings people into the community, both as listeners and as participants and it connects us; it elevates our prayers, and can create a meaningful communal religious experience. Through strong relational and educational skills a cantor engages a congregation in creating a community of joyful worship, comfort in times of sadness, and inspires the energy for innovation.”