Behind the Music: A Few Words About ‘The Prayer’
We had the great privilege this past Shabbat to sing an English/Hebrew version of “The Prayer,” a song originally written in by David Foster and Carole Bayer Sager, with Italian lyrics by Alberto Testa and Tony Renis.
It was made famous as a duet by Celine Dion and Andrea Bocelli in 1999. The Hebrew lyrics were written by Rabbi Moshe Pomerantz with edits by Cantor David Propis. Our duet was a gift to our new Temple president, Judy Winberg, who was installed along with our Temple Board, at this moving Shabbat service.
The song asks for the Eternal to guide us in wisdom, insight, and faith to a place of safety, peace and, love. The tranquil, hopeful lilt of the music touches our hearts and souls. We pray that Judy and her team will be guided in their leadership of our awesome congregation.
Cantor Beny Maissner and Cantorial Soloist Lindi Rivers
p.s. from Lindi: Judy reminded me that during our congregational trip to Israel a year and a half ago, she mentioned this song and how lovely it would be to hear Cantor Maissner and I sing it together. I cannot claim to remember these words, nor was singing it for Judy my idea, but perhaps there was a little magic in the air. The excitement, warmth and, wisdom that Judy brings to our congregation makes me believe it might be so. May we go together from strength to strength.
That was a lovely rendition of the song and my temple is interested in sharing it during the HHD season. Could I get a copy of the lyrics, especially the Hebrew translation? Ideally it would be best if you could write it phonetically, but I can work with whatever you have. Thank you so much for sharing this, it was inspiring.
Shalom,
Raquel
Hi Raquel, thank you for your lovely words. The music, as you might know, was composed by David Foster. The English lyrics were written by Carole Bayer Sager and the Hebrew Lyrics by Rabbi Moshe Pomerantz, edited by Cantor David Propis. If you send me your email address we can communicate that way. You can reach me at lrivers@holyblossom.org.
Shanah tova umetukah,
Lindi