Congregation B’nai Amoona will celebrate Sharon Nathanson’s official designation as a hazzan by the Cantor’s Assembly with two days of events, Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 26-27.

A lifelong member of B’nai Amoona, Nathanson has served as cantorial soloist and acting cantor for the last 10 years, touching congregants’ lives in countless ways through her voice and compassionate presence. She has performed with St. Louis Symphony Concertmaster David Halen, both at Powell Hall and at the Innsbrook Institute Summer Music Festival.  

Her achievement represents the culmination of many years of study and rigorous exams and reflects Nathanson’s  dedication to the Jewish tradition.  

The weekend of events, titled Singular Sensation, includes the following events: 

At 9 a.m. Jan. 26, a spirited musical Sabbath service  (Shabbat Shira) will feature many of the B’nai Amoona vocal ensembles that Nathanson created and directed.  Hazzan Emeritus Leon Lissek returns to B’nai Amoona to preside over Nathanson’s installation ceremony.

At 7 p.m. Jan.  27, the celebration continues with  “Singular Sensation,” featuring Nathanson in an eclectic, energetic and engaging celebration of song.  Joining her will be Halen and members of the St. Louis Symphony; Hazzan Emeritus Lissek; Hazzan Joanna Dulkin of Shaare Zedek Synagogue; Cantor Seth Warner of Congregation Shaare Emeth, and Harif, B’nai Amoona’s popular musical ensemble.  The program will feature Israeli, Yiddish, cabaret and Broadway tunes.  

An elegant dessert reception follows Sunday’s performance.

Concert ticket prices are as follows: Adults, $36; students (under 18), $18.  Tickets may be purchased online at bnaiamoona.com or by calling Barbara Shechter at B’nai Amoona 314-576-9990 x 126.