HaNeiros Halawlu (We Light The Menorah) (arr. Joshua Jacobson): SA Choral Octavo

Joshua Jacobson's arrangement captures the warmth and accessibility of Lewandowski's original while offering a fresh entry point for SA choirs. The simplicity of two-part writing allows singers to focus on the lyrical purity of the melody, and the Hanukkah text brings meaningful seasonal programming without requiring specialized religious knowledge from your singers.

Gentle and devotional, with an underlying sense of celebration. The melody carries a warm, folk-like quality that feels immediate and memorable, while the harmonization maintains a reflective dignity appropriate to the Hanukkah observance.

This arrangement works well for high school and community choirs seeking accessible sacred repertoire with cultural and seasonal relevance. It also suits directors building collections that represent Jewish musical traditions alongside other cultural and religious music.

• Let the melody sing with natural phrasing rather than pushing for overstated dynamics; Lewandowski's lines breathe best when supported by gentle, flowing air support from the entire section.
• Balance the parts so that the alto line provides harmonic grounding without overwhelming the soprano line. This pairing requires attentive blend work in rehearsal.
• Connect the text to the music's celebratory character. The simple beauty of the arrangement serves the message of lighting candles and gathering together.

Program this during the winter concert season as part of a multicultural or interfaith celebration of light, or pair it with other seasonal works for a thematic concert. Its five-page length makes it ideal for a mixed-repertoire concert that spans genres and traditions.

• Reading and sustaining SA voicing with independent part security
• Shaping lyrical melody with natural phrasing and breath control
• Blend and balance between soprano and alto lines
• Singing text in transliterated Hebrew with clear diction and intention