PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — As choral groups try to navigate the uncertainty of live performances, one local organization is holding an event combining music and conversation. The event is dedicated to the challenges facing minorities in our evolving political landscape.
Nashirah, the Jewish Chorale of Greater Philadelphia, is hosting a celebration of shared stories, and the commitment to a more just world through music.
"We are attempting to fight injustices, and racism. I decided to bring together Jewish, Arab, African-American and Latino performers, and focus on a panel discussion about 'Singing Through Struggle,'" said Dr. Julia Zavadsky, Nashirah's musical director.
"Singing Through Struggle" is also the theme of the day-long forum. Zavadsky said singing lifts depression and creates connection with other people. And she says, despite the continuous social distancing, "We gained choir members during the pandemic. How crazy is that?"
Zavadsky said this event is designed to bring people together.
"As human beings, we are so much closer together than society wants us to believe," she said. "If we're really together in something, only good things will come out of it."