We have the honor and privilege of inviting distinguished artists and scholars from across the spectrum of Jewish life and culture to share their expertise, educate and facilitate discussion.
Artist-in-Residence: Billy Jonas
Jan. 27-29, 2023
Billy Jonas is a performer, singer-songwriter, composer, multi-instrumentalist, and Jewish educator. Since 1987, Billy has performed worldwide, in both secular and faith-oriented contexts, using voice, guitar and “industrial re-percussion” (instruments made from found objects). He performs with the Billy Jonas Band as well as solo. When home, he’s a member of the Sacred Music Team and a cantorial soloist at Congregation Beth HaTephila in Asheville, NC. You can learn more about Billy at billyjonas.com. Photo at right by Taylor Johnson.
We’ve compiled our Billy Jonas gatherings below. Please register at the linked event pages.
Teacher Workday Singalong
Friday, January 27
11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Sanctuary and livestream (new location)
The kids are off from school -- now what? Infants through second grade students and their caretakers can enjoy an interactive, musical experience with Billy Jonas on your teacher workday. Bring a dairy/parve style lunch and eat in community with friends after the performance.
This event is open to the community. Tell your friends!
Kabbalat Shabbat
Friday, January 27
6:30-7:15 p.m., Sanctuary and livestream
Join us for a special edition of our musical Kabbalat Shabbat (welcoming the Sabbath) with our weekend artist-in-residence, Billy Jonas. If you prefer to attend remotely, please watch live on our YouTube channel. All are welcome. Beth Meyer members may register to attend Shabbat Dinner (below) following services.
Shabbat Dinner
Friday, January 27
7:15-8 p.m., Social Hall
Following our Kabbalat Shabbat with Billy Jonas, Beth Meyer members can enjoy a Shabbat meal in community. After dinner, Billy Jonas will speak and lead us in singing.
Shabbat Morning Prayer Services
Saturday, January 28
9:30-10:15 a.m., Sanctuary and livestream
All are welcome to join this participatory service led by Rabbis Eric and Jenny Solomon. Shaharit is approximately 9:30-10:15 a.m., when Rabbis Eric and Jenny lead the congregation in Shabbat morning prayers and our weekend artist-in-residence, Billy Jonas, will serve as accompanist.
The Torah service takes place from approximately 10:15-11:30 a.m. and includes the Torah reading, the Haftarah (prophetic reading), and an interactive discussion of the weekly Torah portion. The final section (Musaf) lasts from approximately 11:30-11:45 a.m. The service concludes with the Mourner’s Kaddish and a closing song. If you prefer to attend remotely, please watch live on our YouTube channel.
After the service, the entire congregation is invited for a Kiddush luncheon. Billy will lead our blessing after the meal at kiddush lunch and perform a couple of songs.
Photo at right by Sara Blandin.
Seudah Shelishit
Saturday, January 28
4:30-6 p.m., Beit Am, Satisky Building
Members are invited to join in this creative singing experience led by Billy Jonas — perfect for our dedicated singers and daveners! Enjoy a light dinner following.
Billy Jonas Band Concert
Saturday, January 28
7:30-9 p.m., Sanctuary
The Billy Jonas Band will perform and delight both young and adult audiences. Billy plus this trio strives for a musical excellence that inspires, entertains, and moves people literally and figuratively. With "wild winded word magic" (Dirty Linen Magazine), homemade "industrial re-percussion" instruments, exquisite 3 and 4 part vocal harmonies, plus guitar and bass, they love to create community through song and story. Their specialty: finding and pushing your "wonder" button. This event is open to the community (donations are appreciated from non-members). Tell your friends!
Photo at right by Steve Mann.
Billy Jonas Family Concert
Sunday, January 29
12:30-1:30 p.m., Sanctuary
Enjoy a performance by Billy Jonas geared for kids and families — with appearances by our Kramer Religious School students helping the band!
