London Jewish Male Choir marks 100 years with landmark concert
'Of course, we have no one left from 1926—that would be too much to ask—but we do have members who have witnessed decades of change,' reveals musical director Joseph Finlay
In a milestone for the community in this country, the London Jewish Male Choir will mark its 100th anniversary this weekend with a “Songs of a Century” performance showcasing the full depth of an increasingly broad repertoire.
Under the guidance of musical director Joseph Finlay, the non-auditioned choir has thrived by expanding its repertoire beyond cantorial and Yiddish classics to include theatrical, rock, and pop compositions with Jewish roots.
Praised by both King Charles and Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis and other communal leaders, the choir remains committed to both tradition and innovation.
“The choir was founded in the East End of London in 1926, during the heyday of the Jewish East End, with just a small group of around ten men,” Finlay explains. “Over the years, its numbers have grown, and its story continues—an amazing legacy that has endured.”
Sunday’s centenary concert at Arts Depot in North Finchley will feature not only classic Jewish choral works, but also surprises such as “Onward Jewish Legion”—a rarely performed First World War anthem—and popular songs like Leonard Cohen’s “Dark Is the End of Love” and Simon and Garfunkel’s “The Sound of Silence.”
The concert will also include lighthearted selections, such as a Yiddish-English comedy song from the 1930s about a fruit seller from Mile End who serenades his customers with opera.
Fittingly, the evening will conclude with the ever-popular crowd-pleaser, Hava Nagila.
“We have a member who joined the choir in the 1960s and has sung with us ever since,” reveals Finlay. “Sadly, this year we lost a member who was 93 and had sung in the choir since the 1960s.
He just made it to the start of the anniversary year before he passed away.
Another member from that era—the 1960s—is joining us for just one song, marking a remarkable span of continuous singing.
Of course, we have no one left from 1926—that would be too much to ask—but we do have members who have witnessed decades of change. It’s wonderful not only to hear them sing, but also to listen to their stories and share in the rich history they bring.”
Brian Bradley, chair of the London Jewish Male Choir, added “I have been a chorister all my adult life – the experience of singing with, and now chairing the LJMC has been the greatest.
“Whether it is chazanut, Yiddish songs, Israeli folk songs or whatever, the LJMC brings a passion to the music which our audiences really connect with. This centenary event at Artsdepot will be very special.”
Tickets here: https://www.artsdepot.co.uk/event/london-jewish-male-choir-centenary-celebration/
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