Widening tradition

Isaac grew up in the old Sephardic congregation of London, a 350+ year old community with its own unique traditions and music. This was the beginning of Isaac’s journey as a musician, and informs every part of their work today.

Now, Isaac teaches in major synagogues and grassroots minyanim, university lectures and rural retreats, community centres and interfaith gatherings. Isaac brings communal singing, text discussion, and understanding of different cultures and histories. Their teaching is particularly focused on bringing Sephardic traditions to those who’ve not had access to them, to conserve them as living traditions for generations to come. This is underpinned by Isaac’s rigorous scholarship and innovative pedagogies, yet is still always open and accessible.

Isaac also teaches mikra and tefillah (Torah reading and prayer services) to individual students. Isaac can teach the full annual cycle of liturgy and scripture according to Western Sephardic traditions; Torah, Haftara and daily and weekly services according to Western (British) Ashkenazi traditions; and support learning according to other Sephardic traditions. Past students range from Bene Mitsvah children to community rabbis. First-time readers taught by Isaac range from 12 to 83, so it’s never too late!

Isaac leads services and life-cycle events. They have visited communities and taught and led services, including for the Yamim Noraim (the New Year and Day of Atonement), in the UK, Jerusalem, and the United States. As a leader of life-cycle occasions, Isaac is warm, sensitive, and brings infectious joy. They love to dig into and include family and regional customs, and involve as many people in ceremonies as possible.

New series of Sephardic siddurim – available here:
Siddur Or veShalom: Shabbat and Festival Prayerbook
Siddur Or uMasoret: Weekday Prayerbook