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“Where There Is Song, Let There Be Prayer”: Celebrating Cantor Jacob Niemi

“Where There Is Song, Let There Be Prayer”: Celebrating Cantor Jacob Niemi

In Jewish tradition, the number seven carries deep meaning—symbolizing completion, blessing, and sacred cycles. In 2026 Cantor Jacob Niemi will enter his seventh year as Temple Beth El's beloved cantor. We are delighted to mark this milestone with a special weekend of celebration.

Please join us for a weekend of joyful celebration, guided by the theme “Where There Is Song, Let There Be Prayer,” to celebrate Cantor Jacob Niemi's sacred covenant with our congregation and the profound impact of his musical and spiritual leadership.

Shabbat Worship: “Where There Is Song, Let There Be Prayer”
Friday, April 17, pre-Shabbat nosh 5:15 pm, Shabbat worship 6:00 pm, Oneg Shabbat 7:30 pm
Join us for Shabbat worship with participation by our Temple choir and The Promised Band plus other TBE musicians as well as a special appearance by a pop-up kids' choir. Services will be preceded by a special pre-Shabbat nosh with hearty appetizers and kid-friendly food. After the service, please join us for a festive Oneg Shabbat.  Learn more and register now

Torah Study Led by Rabbi Emeritus Jonathan Biatch
Saturday, April 18, 9:00–10:00 am
Rabbi Biatch will lead this special Torah Study in person in honor of Cantor Niemi. A light brunch will follow. New Torah Study participants welcome! Learn more and register now

Celebratory Concert in Honor of Cantor Jacob Niemi
Saturday, April 18, pre-concert appetizers 5:00 pm, concert 6:15 pm, dessert reception 8:00 pm
Join us for a celebratory concert featuring community singing and performances by guest cantors and Madison’s Perfect Harmony Chorus, followed by a dessert reception. Learn more and register now

We invite you to join us for this joyful, uplifting, and community-building weekend, with programming designed to engage all ages.

Like to sing? Cantor Niemi is inviting adults to participate with our Temple choir for the Friday Shabbat service! Please contact him at cantor@tbemadison.org to learn more.

Want to volunteer? The co-chairs, Erica Serlin, Pam Robbins, and Debi Kieserman, warmly welcome volunteers to help make this celebration truly special. Opportunities include food preparation, decorations, publicity, setup, and cleanup. Please sign up here to help. Contact Debi Kieserman at dkieserman2014@gmail.com with any questions. 

There is no charge for these events, which are generously made by possible by the Blotner Family Music Fund, the Nathan Krasno Cantorial Fund, and the Temple Beth El Music Fund.

Register here: Please register here for the weekend’s events.

Find our accessibility measures and visitor guide on our in-person information page.

March 10, 2026 21 Adar 5786