While this is a remarkable story of both a remarkable woman and her accomplishments in a male-dominated 19th century, I think there needs to be a better understanding of what cantors are and what cantors do- not just in a modern context but even back then.
For starters, let me ask a question. Is a rabbi defined by the 'speaking parts' or sermons that they give? Would anyone want to call a great speech writer 'rabbi?' It is clear that the title rabbi designates a leader and teacher within the Jewish community and beyond. This is no less true for the title of cantor, but music is merely a tool.
Cantors are teachers, pastoral caregivers, service leaders, able to conduct weddings, funerals, baby namings and in addition to doing everything a rabbi can do- we are still expected to sing.
In the 19th century, the role of cantor, in addition to singing, was still respected as someone to was able to teach bar mitzvah students, someone who offered comfort at funerals and other life-cycle events. I do not know the full story of Mrs. Rosewald, I doubt her responsibilities extended beyond her role as musical director and soloist. Her skills as a musician must have been exceptional, but I am curious about her knowledge of liturgy or other texts. It would be these other missing pieces that would make me more comfortable with her being viewed as a cantor.
I would not want to take anything away from this story or this rare chance to see a strong woman figure at a time when women were not seen this way. However, I would not want the title or role of 'cantor' to be limited to a 'glorified singer.'
While this is a remarkable story of both a remarkable woman and her accomplishments in a male-dominated 19th century, I think there needs to be a better understanding of what cantors are and what cantors do- not just in a modern context but even back then.
For starters, let me ask a question. Is a rabbi defined by the 'speaking parts' or sermons that they give? Would anyone want to call a great speech writer 'rabbi?' It is clear that the title rabbi designates a leader and teacher within the Jewish community and beyond. This is no less true for the title of cantor, but music is merely a tool.
Cantors are teachers, pastoral caregivers, service leaders, able to conduct weddings, funerals, baby namings and in addition to doing everything a rabbi can do- we are still expected to sing.
In the 19th century, the role of cantor, in addition to singing, was still respected as someone to was able to teach bar mitzvah students, someone who offered comfort at funerals and other life-cycle events. I do not know the full story of Mrs. Rosewald, I doubt her responsibilities extended beyond her role as musical director and soloist. Her skills as a musician must have been exceptional, but I am curious about her knowledge of liturgy or other texts. It would be these other missing pieces that would make me more comfortable with her being viewed as a cantor.
I would not want to take anything away from this story or this rare chance to see a strong woman figure at a time when women were not seen this way. However, I would not want the title or role of 'cantor' to be limited to a 'glorified singer.'
Respectfully, Cantor Brad Hyman