Music to Listen to During the High Holidays

Cantor Rosalie Will

Most of the music we associate with the High Holidays (Rosh HaShanah and Yom Kippur) is heard in the synagogue. Different than some of our other more home-based celebrations (such as Sukkot in an outdoor sukkah, Hanukkah gathered around our candles in the home, Passover seated at an overflowing holiday table), the High HolidaysHigh Holidaysיָמִים נוֹרָאִיםRosh HaShanah and Yom Kippur lead us toward reflection and introspection as individuals, while in the embrace of a community moving through our sacred time together. Because of that, we do not have a lot of High Holidays musical settings designed for the home, as most are sacred liturgical melodies that call to mind perhaps a history or memory of the past, or call us to look to the future and the world we wish to build.

To get us in the spirit of entering the New Year, though, we have some music for you. Whether you listen to these songs alone or with others, may they lead you to thoughts of turning our hearts toward the rich opportunities the New Year brings, or perhaps a moment to reflect on the times we’ve “missed the mark” and not been our best selves. Shanah tovah u’metukah, a sweet and good year to you!

High Holiday Music Selections

High Holiday Music for Families with Young Children

Contemporary Music to Welcome the New Year

Want more? For a particularly unique High Holidays playlist, check out Rabbi Alex Kress's RAPentance "praylist."