About the JJMC
Mission Statement: "To maintain and preserve the heritage of Jewish liturgical, traditional and contemporary music."
In 1986, forty four choristers, the newly formed Johannesburg Jewish Male Choir, took their places on the stage of the Linder Auditorium, to pay tribute to the memory of Cantor Johnny Gluck, whose glorious voice still echoes in their hearts. In this spirit they have kept our heritage of liturgical music alive, and it has soared.
That first memorial concert was the source of a new musical life. The choir grew, almost as fast as its reputation. It attracted choristers of great musicality from synagogues around Johannesburg, with a range of voices that enchanted audiences far and wide. The choir has elevated the sounds of Jewish prayer to new heights.
Only a year later, the JJMC was invited to perform in Israel at the 20th anniversary celebrations of the reunification of Jerusalem. Since then, the choir has been innundated with invitations to perform - internationally and within the borders of South Africa. The JJMC has performed on four continents, thrilling audiences from New York to Sydney, San Diego to London.
The JJMC's programs have encapsulated the very core of Judaism. They have encompassed our history and our hopes. A picture may say more than a thousand words, but our song reaches those hidden and uncharted places of the heart, mind and soul. In a language that knows no geographical boundaries, our music speaks to every listener, reflecting the traumas of the past and the dreams of the future.
Our performances reflect the dedication, enthusiasm and commitment of every chorister, as well as the outstanding talent of our accomplished accompanist. They have been milestones along the musical route travelled by the choir, the memory of Cantor Johnny Gluck has been a beacon illuminating our path, the sound of his glorious voice our constant inspiration.
