![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.thejewishinsights.com\/wp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/578A2181-870x580.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n\n\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Thirty Seven years ago, a young Sheya Mendlowitz<\/strong> spent a life changing Shabbos in a special needs camp in upstate NY. When he witnessed firsthand the level of care and commitment not to mention love that the staff of Camp HASC<\/strong> had for these special neshamos, he was amazed. Upon hearing that the government funds for the camp were being cut and that the camp would have to close, Sheya<\/strong> realized that something would need to be done. In Sheya<\/strong>\u2019s own words, \u201cHashem put an idea into my head.\u201d What if we could hold a gala concert fundraiser, the likes of which the world had never seen before? Maybe, just maybe, we could raise the funds to keep this magical place open for those who desperately need it. And so it came to be. Mordechai Ben David<\/strong> and Avraham Fried<\/strong> starred in a show unlike any other until that time in glorious and prestigious Manhattan venues where Jewish concerts have never been.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 This past Sunday, Camp HASC<\/strong> celebrated the 37th annual A Time For Music<\/strong> concert, and Sheya<\/strong>\u2019s legacy lives on. Masterfully produced by Shloime Steinmeitz<\/strong> and his hand-picked team by Pivot group<\/strong>, concert goers were treated to four hours of some of the biggest names in Jewish music. How does one start off such a momentous show? How about a live marching band playing the iconic HASC<\/strong> intro walking down the aisles and making their way on stage to join the maestro of the night, Mendy Hershkowitz<\/strong> and his orchestra for the opening medley. It was a sight to behold. With our veteran MC, the one and only Nachum Segal<\/strong> at the helm, A Time for Unity<\/strong> was about to begin. Who would perform first?<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 When we all heard the powerful voice belt out a Lo Yisa Goy El Goy Cherev<\/strong>, it was evident that the incomparable Shulem<\/strong> would be up first. Accompanied by the HASC choir<\/strong>, consisting of six talented vocalists, each in their own right, the performance was electric. The medley continued with The Exodus Song<\/strong>, Mi Sheberach<\/strong>, Kehilos Hakodesh<\/strong>, Bring Them Home<\/strong> and finally Shulem<\/strong>‘s very own Kiddush Hashem<\/strong>. It seems each time I see Shulem<\/strong> perform, his stage presence and vocal prowess just blow me away. What a great start to the night.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Next up was Benny Friedman<\/strong>. He started off with his song Yehudi Ze Hachi<\/strong>, a song that doesn\u2019t get performed often enough. With the theme of the night being unity, that song fit perfectly. Next Benny <\/strong>performed his brand new single Lo Lefached<\/strong>. The song has some amazing twists and turns in the medley written by Yitzchok Rosenthal<\/strong>. Benny<\/strong> performed it perfectly and those that weren\u2019t familiar with the song were already searching for it on 24Six <\/strong>before the performance was over. From there it kept getting better and better. A Yid<\/strong> written by Chayale Neuhaus<\/strong> has pretty much become a staple in Jewish homes, schools, camps and\u2026 well everywhere. With the emotionally charged A Yid<\/strong> winding down, and closing the set with Yama<\/strong> one of Benny<\/strong>‘s newest hits, a phone appears on the screen in from of us. Benny<\/strong>\u2019s seemed to be getting a WhatsApp from Ari Hill<\/strong>. The voice note is Ari<\/strong> asking if maybe they could perform something together Beyachad, special for HASC<\/strong>. Naturally, Benny<\/strong> says yes. Israeli singer Ari Hill<\/strong> walks on stage for his HASC<\/strong> debut. The two perform on of the biggest songs in Jewish music from Hanan Ben Ari<\/strong>, Shvurei Lev<\/strong>. It was a moving performance and their voices blended in \u201cperfect harmony.\u201d This was another HASC <\/strong>standout moment of the night.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Nachum<\/strong> then announces that he was just informed that that Stein family has graciously donated $250,000 towards a bunkhouse because of the enjoyment of the show thus far. Wow! Next up was something the likes of which haven\u2019t been seen in the Jewish world, possibly even the secular world as well. Making his HASC<\/strong> debut was Israeli singer Shalom Bernholtz<\/strong> singing alongside a hologram; yes a hologram of Reb SHLOMO CARLEBACH<\/strong>!!! Everyone was in shock. It must have been AI generated, and very much lifelike. The two played off each other singing Shoma Tefilosi<\/strong> a new song composed by the talented young singer from Israel Shalom Bernholtz<\/strong>. It was definitely a memorable moment and a first for Jewish music.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 It was time for a new artist who I have been keeping an eye on. Israel singer and songwriter, SHMUEL<\/strong>, made his HASC<\/strong> debut. This guy has so much chein, energy and a melodious voice that you just want to tap your foot and smile. He performed his hit pop song Nekudot<\/strong>. It was such a breath of fresh air. It reminded me of the HASC<\/strong> of old when we were introduced to some insane talent that the world has yet to discover. Though he is a relatively new artist with only five singles or so, he has a very bright future ahead of him. Shmuel<\/strong> continued with his hit ballad Ten Li Tefillah<\/strong>. What I loved most about this performance was that Shmuel<\/strong> had the band quiet down so we could sing with him. He then went on to translate the words to English which gave me a deeper understanding for the song and better appreciation. For his final song, Shmuel<\/strong> invited out superstar singer Mordechai Shapiro<\/strong> to perform Yesh Bi Emunah<\/strong> with him. Though the song was recorded together by these two artists, this would be their first time performing it live together. The crowd definitely knew this one. Fans took out their phones and the room was all lit up. It was the perfect way to end this young star\u2019s introduction to the HASC<\/strong> audience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 With Shmuel<\/strong> leaving the stage, it was time for Mordy Shap<\/strong>. He started off his set with a one of his most famous singles that has never been released on an album Ein Od MIlvado<\/strong>. With the powerful vocals that only Mordy<\/strong> can deliver, everyone was dancing in their seats with this pop tune. To slow things down and to re-introduce the theme of the night, Mordy<\/strong> went on to sing his own composition, Achas<\/strong>, off his latest album. This song is always a crowd favorite. The message of togetherness was reverberating throughout the room. With everyone all mellow from Achas<\/strong>, Mordy<\/strong> invites his good friend Benny Friedman<\/strong> back on stage. This next performance was a mashup of Ivri Anoichi<\/strong> and Ani Yehudi<\/strong>. There was so much back and forth that the good feelings were contagious. Benny <\/strong>singing Mordy<\/strong>\u2019s song, Mordy<\/strong> singing Ivri Anoichi<\/strong>. It was thoroughly fun for everyone. Mordy<\/strong> closed his solo set with B’yachad<\/strong>, \u00a0a song about friends and togetherness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Next, Mordy <\/strong>invited Baruch Levine<\/strong> to join him on stage and the two performed Baruch<\/strong>‘s hit song Zeh Hakatan<\/strong> off his latest album, originally performed by Baruch<\/strong> and Shmueli Ungar<\/strong>. There was great energy between the two and it was a pleasant surprise. The show continued with Baruch taking his place at the piano and performing some of his hits including; Shabbos Hayom Lashem<\/strong>, Ain Aroich<\/strong> and Bitchu <\/strong>together with Benny Friedman<\/strong>. The two really complemented each other and it was great to hear these classics. Shulem<\/strong> joined the duo singing Baruch<\/strong>‘s Lecha Dodi<\/strong>, Kol Haberuim<\/strong> and closing out the set with Touched By A Niggun<\/strong>. It was some great Jewish music with the nostalgic feel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n Nachum Segal <\/strong>was back with an announcement that surprised us all. A camper from Camp HASC<\/strong> was getting his wish tonight with the performance of his favorite song at the show. Shulem<\/strong> was welcomed back to the stage and making his HASC<\/strong> debut for this very special debut all the way from the Holy Land was Alex Clare<\/strong>. The song was titled Beautiful World<\/strong>. While I am not familiar with the song, I very much enjoyed the way Alex<\/strong>‘s raspy voice and Shulem<\/strong>\u2019s silky one complemented each other. This was definitely another moment to remember.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n After an inspiring dvar torah and thanks from Rav Judah<\/strong>, it was time for another unique multimedia interaction with the actor and the big screen. He was scrolling through a phone, playing games and then looking through music until he came to music by Avraham Fried<\/strong>. We all understood it was time for the headliner to make his appearance. Avremel<\/strong> started off with an oldies medley, called the Goodbye medley<\/strong> of some of his golden hits including; Golus Goodbye<\/strong>, Giants Shoulders<\/strong>, A Little Bit of Light<\/strong> and Forever One<\/strong>. The set ended with Avremel<\/strong> walking up the stairs and belting out the final lyric Forever One<\/strong>. Avremel<\/strong> seems to get better each time I hear him. His powerful voice with that warm tone. His energy? His was dancing and running across the stage like a young man in his 20’s. This was what we were waiting for.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n Avremel<\/strong> then addresses the crowd saying that it occurred to him and is very humbling, that thirty seven year ago he was fortunate to be at THE VERY FIRST HASC concert. He gives thanks to the Ribono Shel Olam. Wow! So inspiring. He then asks us to join him on the next song, if we don’t know it; he will teach it to us because it is very simple. He starts singing the new hit Bekarov Mamash<\/strong> which was written and produced by the Thank You Hashem<\/strong> group. The song has an amazing klezmer feel to it and we were enjoying the performance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n When the song was done, we could already see Avremel<\/strong>\u2019s demeanor had changed a little. When he asked for a siddur which Yuval<\/strong> gave him, he continued with the following. He asked if anyone know who produced the first HASC<\/strong> concert. They resounding response was SHEYA! Sheya Mendlowitz<\/strong> A\u201dH, who passed away recently. The Jewish music world lost a legend. It was he who took Jewish music to a whole new level. Everyone sitting here tonight was just because of his brainstorm. They worked for many years together and brought out some amazing Jewish music. One of them was the following song, a classic by Yossi Green<\/strong>. It was dedicated it to Sheya, not just because of bringing HASC on to the map but for bringing himself the one and only Avraham Fried<\/strong> onto the map some forty two years ago. The song Retzei Hashem<\/strong> happens to be one of my favorite pieces. Avremel<\/strong>\u2019s emotionally charged performance of the moving song really got to us. He was clearly moved and stopped once or twice, remembering his friend and music producer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n After that emotionally performance Avremel<\/strong> once again said that we should dance Hakofos for all of those in Eretz Yisrael that didn\u2019t get to dance this October seventh. A then energetic Avremel<\/strong> jumped off stage and proceeded to sing and dance down the aisle. The audience was electrified and the choir gave the performance a whole new level of depth. After helping Avrelem<\/strong> back on stage, he started singing the first few notes of the hit song Abba<\/strong> , which was composed by Bentzi Stein<\/strong>. He was joined by Israeli singer, Ari Hill<\/strong>, for a chorus of Abba<\/strong>. They discussed the success of the song released five years ago and said they would perform another hit song also composed by Bentzi Stein<\/strong> released recently called Al Tipol<\/strong>. It\u2019s a beautiful song about not being afraid and that the sun will still come out tomorrow. It was a powerful performance and the two voices enhanced each other beautifully.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Next the video turned on and it was DEDI<\/strong>. The video showed about how he affected everyone with love, laughter and stellar performances throughout the years. He was a critical part of the HASC family and all those who knew him. Rav Juda Mischel<\/strong> then welcomed Mrs. Malka Graucher ,DEDI<\/strong>\u2019s wife, and children with a standing ovation to show our respect. NJPAC<\/strong> erupted into chants of DEDI, DEDI.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Rav Juda<\/strong> and some of the HASC<\/strong> board members called up Shai Graucher<\/strong> and presented him with a plaque as a token of their appreciation for everything his father had done for the world and HASC<\/strong>. Shai<\/strong>, has been doing some amazing work with his organization, Beyachad Nanetzayach<\/strong> in Israel, making people happy and helping those hurt or families who have lost members in this terrible war. Shai<\/strong> thanked HASC<\/strong> and mentioned how he was supposed to come with his father several times over the years but it just never happened. He thanked American Jewry for all they have done for their brethren in Israel and continue to do. \u201cIsraeli\u2019s see it and feel it across the oceans, how much love and care you have for them.\u201d They see the funds coming in and equipment and care packages and they appreciate it! Shai<\/strong> ended off saying that the family thinks it would be fit to have a new bunkhouse built with Dedi<\/strong>\u2019s name on it and they need our help to complete the fundraising. When Shai <\/strong>was done, NJPAC <\/strong>erupted into applause and he took his seat\u2026 or so we thought. The music started up and Benny Friedman<\/strong> came out singing the low part of DEDI<\/strong>\u2019s iconic song Chevron. He was joined by Shulem<\/strong> singing the low part of Omnom<\/strong>, which the two finished in harmony. Next, the HASC choir <\/strong>started up the low part of DEDI<\/strong>\u2019s mega hit Zoche<\/strong>. They were joined by none other than Shai Graucher<\/strong> himself. Mordechai Shapiro<\/strong> joined them on stage for the high part of Zoche<\/strong> and the stage was on fire. Next, was Lecha Eten<\/strong> which transitioned into Hu Yigal<\/strong>, sung by Avraham Fried<\/strong>. Having these mega stars sing the most iconic DEDI<\/strong> hits together was my favorite part of the night. They were joined on stage by DEDI<\/strong>\u2019s other song Aviel<\/strong>, who sounds very much like his father. All the singers continued to sing Vekovei Hashem<\/strong> and Kulanu Nashir B\u2019Yachad<\/strong>. Even though it was a slow song, when they started singing DEDI<\/strong>\u2019s song Menachem with lyrics changed to Dedi, Dedi oh Dedi, Hitasafnu Po Hayom L\u2019zichrecho, we all got emotional. It started with Benny<\/strong>, then Shulem<\/strong> singing together with Aviel<\/strong>,while DEDI\u2019s smiling face came on the screen. This was another of those very special HASC<\/strong> moments to remember.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n Next up was an all-new exciting performance that was going to take us on a musical journey like never before. Nachum<\/strong> announced that we would experience the magic of a musical odyssey, weaving tale of song and drama, which captures the resilience and fortitude of our great nation. Written by the renowned Abie Rotenberg<\/strong> and accompanied by an ensemble of talents, we present to you \u201cRooted In Resilience<\/strong>.\u201d Keep in mind a play of any kind at HASC<\/strong> was only attempted back in 1994 at HASC 7<\/strong>. Most concert goers then wanted more music. I was told Sheya<\/strong> even had to advertise the next year that the show would only be musical performances (Thanks Adam). However, with Abie<\/strong> at the helm, the biggest names in Jewish music joining him for songs connected to the performances. It was something amazingly unexpected. The intricate sets, makeup, digital backgrounds and actors were flawless. The two main characters we played by actors and vocalists Chaim Brown<\/strong> and Leiby Weider<\/strong>. These two were amazing. They kept in character the whole time. They are from the top actors that are in the top Yiddish Plays and it was amazing for the audience to experience this level of performance in English. Leiby<\/strong> even went on the perform Avraham Fried<\/strong>\u2019s classic Don\u2019t Hide From Me<\/strong> flawlessly, and ended with resounding applause. In between scenes were performances by Abie<\/strong> and our cast. Aish<\/strong> classics like Habeit<\/strong> and Rachmana together with Benny Friedman<\/strong>, In a Vinkele<\/strong> and Lakol Zman<\/strong> with Ari Hill<\/strong>, Ani Maamin<\/strong> by Abie himself<\/strong>, Memories <\/strong>with Avraham Fried<\/strong>, From The Ashes<\/strong> with Mordechai Shapiro<\/strong>, The Man From Vilna<\/strong> with Shulem<\/strong> and ![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.thejewishinsights.com\/wp\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/578A2459-Enhanced-NR-870x580.jpg\")
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