On Purim eve, the Yeshiva Aharon Yaakov/Ohr Eliyahu (YAYOE) boys’ choir performed at the Garden of Palms Jewish home for the aged. Following their musical performance, choir members distributed hamantaschen to and mingled with the residents, thereby strengthening the connection between the generations.
The 26-member choir is directed by Rabbi Yitzchak Golbart, who conducts rehearsals as part of the after-school Enrichment Program. Rabbi Golbart reports that parents are happy that their sons have the opportunity to participate in choral music experiences, and that they are able to share their musical gift with the community.
Reacting to the generational interactions, one parent was brought to tears. A woman whose parents live at the Garden of Palms said she wished this program could take place every week because its meaningfulness benefited them and their co-residents.
Rabbi Goldberg, the menahel of YAYOE, paid tribute to the choir and delivered a powerful drasha about Purim and music. Before the event, Rabbi Goldberg encouraged the boys to interact with the residents and inquire about their lives.
Key players in the event were Shelly Fenig, who provided the individually wrapped hamantaschen; those parents who transported and chaperoned the boys; and the Garden of Palms staff.