Shalom Rav - Rabbi Dan Freelander & Cantor Jeff Klepper; arr. Mayta Cohen

This month, I created a 4-part female a cappella arrangement of Cantor Jeff Klepper and Rabbi Dan Freelander’s Shalom Rav for a Jewish music competition hosted by Jewish Rock Radio. I’ve been wanting to arrange this song for a while, so I chose it for my submission without realizing how timely it actually is.
The Jewish people are about to enter into the Hebrew month of Cheshvan - a month without Jewish holidays or special commandments. Interestingly, this comes immediately after the month of Tishrei, which is packed with High Holidays and celebrations. While Cheshvan allows us to settle back into our ordinary routines, it also gives us the opportunity to take our reflection and inspiration from Tishrei into our normal lives. It is the perfect time to work to be better people and practice Tikkun Olam, making the world a better place.
But this year is different; nothing about it is ordinary or routine. I’m feeling the tension of entering what is supposed to be a calming time when there is a growing sense of unrest worldwide. So I’d like to share this powerful prayer for peace now, one that has always given me comfort in scary times as much as it has inspired me to get up and do my part - like Cheshvan calls on us to do. One way I’m going to do my part this month is by voting. If you are eligible to vote, please join me so we can work towards a peaceful world for all. Rosh Chodesh Tov!
No matter what state you are voting in, you can check your registration, find your polling place, or request an absentee ballot at @.
[Arrangement, audio & video - Mayta Cohen]