RIDGEWOOD—Temple Israel in Ridgewood will present The Yemenite Experience with Shlomit Levi and her instrumental ensemble on Saturday, Sept. 7, at 8:30 p.m. The Yemenite Experience is a captivating “show-story” that celebrates the beauty and cultural significance of Jewish Yemenite music, featuring the renowned singer Shlomit Levi.
This unique concert blends traditional Yemenite songs with beloved Israeli favorites. Attendees will also hear stories and personal anecdotes from Shlomit’s family history, creating an unforgettable evening of music and storytelling. This presentation is hosted by the Music Committee of Temple Israel and JCC. It will be in-person only. All are welcome to the hour-long concert, which will be followed by a dessert reception with the artists.
Admission is $20 for adults, $15 for seniors. Children and students are free.
This concert is sponsored by Temple Israel member Richard Schnaittacher in memory of his parents, Dorothy z”l and Fred Schnaittacher z”l, and in honor of the America-Israel Cultural Foundation (AICF), which supports artistic life in Israel. AICF has played a leading role in helping develop and fund many of Israel’s largest cultural institutions. Most of Israel’s finest artists have received assistance from AICF, including Itzhak Perlman, Menashe Kadishman, Pinchas Zukerman, Gil Shaham, Yefim Bronfman, the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra, the Israel Museum, and the Batsheva Dance Company.
Shlomit Levi (www.shlomitlevi.com), lauded as “The New Ofra Haza,” has captivated audiences worldwide with her powerful voice and impressive stage presence. With performances alongside artists like Boaz Sharabi, Vini Vici, and Orphaned Land, Shlomit’s voice has resonated with audiences around the world. Growing up in Israel as the daughter of Yemenite immigrants, Shlomit was deeply immersed in the music and culture of her ancestors. Her musical project transcends traditional boundaries, fusing ancient melodies with contemporary sounds, and has earned her accolades across Europe, Israel, and the United States.
Shlomit’s extensive experience as a performer and lecturer brings depth to her concerts, making them both educational and entertaining. She has led programs at prestigious institutions such as Hillel Israel, ELUL Beit Midrash, the Marom organization, BINA, Kehilot Sharot Piyut, Limmud UK & USA, and AJR. Shlomit is the lecturer for the “Yemenite Style Song” course in the ALEPH Ordination Rabbinical Program.
Tripp Dudley is a renowned tabla player, drummer, and percussionist known for his deep groove and virtuosity across diverse musical traditions. He has performed globally with artists such as Pandit Samir Chatterjee, Dan Weiss, Beth Nielsen Chapman, and Brooklyn Raga Massive. A dedicated student of tabla for over 20 years, Tripp was initiated as a disciple by Pandit Samir Chatterjee, continuing a 300-year-old lineage. He has taught numerous workshops and played thousands of concerts in over 25 countries. Tripp is a Berklee College of Music graduate and endorses Saluda cymbals.
Eran Phillips is a professional musician with more than 30 years of experience performing, producing, recording, and teaching music. As a talented musician and producer, Eran joins the Yemenite Experience concert lineup, bringing his expertise in music production, mixing, and guitar playing. His versatility across genres, from rock to EDM, ensures an electrifying performance and a unique sound on stage.
At 475 Grove St. in Ridgewood, Temple Israel & JCC is an egalitarian Conservative community. Service schedules and more information are available at www.synagogue.org.