This project is music I composed that is inspired by a book of Jewish wisdom called the Pirkei Avot. The work is recorded, but not released yet. With your help I will release the CD and give you a copy, as well as much more!
Many years ago I was flipping through a prayer book in synagogue and discovered the Pirkei Avot. Also known as "The Wisdom of the Jewish Sages", it's a compilation of rabbinic teachings compiled in the third century C.E.
What struck me was the universal relevance of the words in today's modern, crazy times. I thought it would be really fun to put some of these texts to music. My good friend Ayelet Rose Gottlieb was moving to Israel and I wanted to record a CD of this music with her before she left, so we went into the studio.
Ayelet was convinced that a certain record label (who shall remain nameless) would pick up the CD in a heartbeat; instead, they declined, saying the music was too "pretty". (At least they didn't say it was ugly?)
So now I've decided to make this CD a group project, which means involving YOU. This music means a great deal to me; I recorded it with dear friends of mine, and it's been sitting on a shelf. I would love to share it with you, and in return for your "fueling" of the project, I offer rewards ranging from an autographed copy of the CD to a personal concert in your home in September. The funds raised through this group involvement will go towards finishing the CD (design and mastering costs), pressing copies of it, and promoting it by taking the show on the road.