Choirs & Band
Kol Ami’s choirs and band programs bring our community together through music, enriching Jewish life and worship across generations. Through meaningful musical experiences—both in rehearsal and performance—participants build connection, express themselves, and deepen their relationship to Jewish tradition and one another.
Adult Choir
Kol Ami’s Adult Choir is a year-round vocal ensemble that meets on Thursday evenings to explore Jewish music, build community, and enrich congregational worship. Singers work collaboratively to learn a wide range of musical styles—from traditional liturgical settings to contemporary Jewish compositions—while developing their voices and forming lasting connections. Whether you are an experienced choral singer or returning to music after time away, the Adult Choir offers a joyful, supportive space to sing, learn, and contribute to the musical life of the congregation.
High Holy Day Choir
Kol Ami’s High Holy Day Choir is a seasonal ensemble that brings voices together in preparation for the most sacred moments of the Jewish year. Meeting in the months leading up to Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, the choir enhances High Holy Day worship through meaningful, accessible choral music that deepens the prayer experience for the entire congregation. Open to singers of varying experience levels, the High Holy Day Choir offers a welcoming opportunity to connect with Jewish tradition, community, and spirituality through song, culminating in participation in High Holy Day services at Kol Ami.
The Shirei Simcha Project
The Shirei Simcha Project is Kol Ami’s new youth music and connection initiative, made possible through a generous grant from Jewish Philanthropies of Southern Arizona (JPSA). Named for the Hebrew phrase meaning “Songs of Joy,” Shirei Simcha brings Jewish youth together through the shared language of music—fostering creativity, confidence, and community. Through two core offerings, a Teen Band and a Youth Choir, participants build musical skills while forming meaningful peer relationships in a supportive Jewish environment. Led by Kol Ami’s Cantor and supported by dedicated staff and families, Shirei Simcha creates space for young people to express themselves, strengthen their Jewish identity, and experience the joy of belonging. More than rehearsals and performances, the Shirei Simcha Project is a vibrant community where youth are seen, supported, and celebrated—finding connection, purpose, and joy through music.
Shul of Rock
Shul of Rock is Kol Ami’s teen band program, bringing Jewish youth together through contemporary Jewish music, collaboration, and performance. Open to students in grades 7–12 who sing or play an instrument, the band offers a welcoming space for teens to grow musically while building confidence, connection, and community.
Led by Cantor Jen in partnership with pianist Chris Tackett, Shul of Rock explores custom arrangements of Jewish music and performs regularly at services and community events at Kol Ami and throughout Tucson. In addition to rehearsals and performances, participants enjoy unique opportunities such as masterclasses and mentorship with professional musicians, field trips to concerts, and shared meals that strengthen relationships within the group.
Shul of Rock meets twice a month on Thursday afternoons for rehearsal followed by dinner, creating a supportive, joyful environment where teens can express themselves, deepen their Jewish identity, and experience the power of music together.
Sabra Singers
Sabra Singers is Kol Ami’s junior youth choir, welcoming children who love to sing and connect through music. Open to students in grades 2–6 (and younger singers who are comfortable reading), the choir offers a joyful introduction to Jewish music, community, and performance in a supportive environment.
Participants learn engaging Jewish songs and have opportunities to sing during services and at community events in and around Tucson. Through shared music-making, Sabra Singers helps young voices build confidence, develop musical skills, and strengthen their connection to Jewish life.
The choir meets regularly on Sundays following religious school, with time for lunch and rehearsal—creating a fun, social rhythm that brings music and friendship together.
