Today, the words of this ancient liturgical declaration are obscure because it is written mostly in Aramaic, rather than the Hebrew of most Jewish prayers. Despite the difficult language and controversial intent to annul vows, Kol Nidrei is central to the Ashkenazic High Holiday experience. This video demonstrates the pomp and circumstance surrounding this prayer among Ashkenazic Jews. Cantor Dan Mutlu leads, backed by choir, organ, cello, and violin. Notice the VIPs holding Torahs behind the cantor. Compare Mutlu’s rendition to this church performance by Andrew Bearden Brown.
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Comparing Cantor Mutlu’s rendition to Brown’s church performance, what similarities and differences do you notice in vocal style and instrumentation?
