Dudu Fisher Calls Cantorial Art Most Difficult
Renowned cantor and singer Dudu Fisher, known for his global performances including starring as Jean Valjean in "Les Misérables" on Broadway and in London's West End, discussed the demanding nature of his cantorial art, particularly during the High Holidays. Fisher stated that while show business considers lip-syncing the hardest art form, he believes cantorial singing is the most challenging. He explained that a cantor must evoke a wide range of emotions in congregants solely through their voice, without amplification or an orchestra, and often with their back to the audience. He emphasized that this requires being an excellent actor, bringing the same vocal and emotional depth to synagogue services as he does to the theater stage.
Fisher acknowledged that despite decades of experience, he still feels excitement and a hope for a pure voice and good acoustics when leading prayers. He noted that contemporary Jewish music has shifted towards modern melodies, including those of Rabbi Shlomo Carlebach and yeshiva-style tunes. However, he believes that young people today seek active participation in prayer rather than just attending a concert. He praised conductor Rafi Biton for successfully blending musical theater, Israeli songs, and Yiddish or Ladino pieces to engage modern congregations, a technique Fisher himself has employed internationally.
Reflecting on personal experiences, Fisher recalled his first time serving as a cantor in Winnipeg, Canada, in 1973, when the Yom Kippur War broke out. He sang "Avinu Malkeinu," a piece then known mainly to cantorial enthusiasts, which he finds deeply moving each year, especially since Barbra Streisand later recorded it. He also identified "Bnei Yikir Li Ephraim" by cantor Levitsky as a melody symbolizing unity within the Jewish people, sung across all segments of society.
Currently in the U.S. for the High Holidays, Fisher plans to continue his cantorial duties and performance career, celebrating over 50 years of work. His upcoming projects include a singing and cantorial show, a return to acting in the play "The Diary," and potentially a guest appearance in a revival of "Les Misérables" in Israel.
