Program Requirements

Introduction

The Cantorial School Program leads to ordination as Hazzan and Teacher in Israel. It is designed to train students to develop the Jewish learning and the musical and professional skills necessary to serve and lead the Jewish people as a cantor. Heir to a tradition of great musical insight and artistry, the modern cantor must also be a professionally trained religious leader and teacher.

The Academy is uniquely prepared to train students to serve in this multi-faceted contemporary role. Our faculty represents the diversity of the Jewish people and our curriculum stresses cantorial interpretation and musicality as well as modern Jewish scholarship and an understanding of the liturgies of present-day Jewry. Our student body includes many mature students opting for a mid-life career change; consequently, AJR’s learning environment is especially encouraging and supportive. Our ordinees serve in a variety of settings in the United States and elsewhere.

Click here to see a listing of the Course Requirements

Below is summary of some of the cantorial program requirements. A full description can be found in the Student Handbook.

Vocal and Musical Training and Coaching

Vocal instruction is an integral part of the professional training of a cantor. All students are required to take voice lessons throughout their Academy cantorial studies. This instruction is arranged privately by students who are responsible for all associated costs. Advisors are available for guidance and will periodically discuss with students their vocal progress.

Every matriculated cantorial student is required to be coached by a cantorial instructor each semester enrolled at AJR.

Students are required to continue their musical study until they reach the required standard in the areas of: harmony, conducting, sight-singing and ear training. An intermediate level of keyboard proficiency will be required; an alternate instrument may be approved.

The required standards are described in the Student Handbook, and may be demonstrated by completing specified levels of study in another approved program. Students with advanced training (preferably at the graduate school or conservatory level), may be exempted from all or part of these requirements. In any case of doubt, students seeking exemption will demonstrate their abilities through an AJR Music Competency Examination.

Steady progress must be made toward this requirement during the first two years of study, with this musical training completed by the end of the second year of study.

The Cantorial Practicum

A practicum is expected of all matriculating students during the course of each year. Each practicum will be presented by one or two students. Every student, regardless of Advanced or Accelerated Standing, shall present at least two practica during the course of their studies. The topic for each practicum will be assigned by the Director of Practica Program in consultation with the student.

AJR Choir

Five (5) semesters of post-matriculation AJR Choir are required for ordination. Students not taking AJR Choir in any semester must nevertheless be available for rehearsals and performances.

Synagogue Experience

All students develop the skills to conduct services in synagogues of traditional and Reform approaches to liturgy. Students will be asked to demonstrate this ability during the final two years of study. AJR will maintain relationships with several congregations that will extend invitations to cantorial students to lead services.

Comprehensive Examination

Prior to eligibility for Senior Status, the student will pass a Comprehensive Examination in Hebrew, Nusah, Cantillation, and Contemporary Repertoire.