A musical bridge to spread joy and culture through song

Harvard’s rising Jewish a capella group, ApiChorus, is set to captivate audiences at Tel Aviv University on March 16 with a dynamic blend of songs in Yiddish, Hebrew, and English. Open to all, the concert promises to be a moving music experience, celebrating tradition, culture, and connection.  

The upcoming performance is part of the choir’s international tour to Israel where they aim to us the power of music to uplift communities across the country. Beyond the stage, ApiChorus members are eager to immerse themselves in Israeli society and culture: 

“We aim to connect with audiences of all backgrounds and spread the spirit of Jewish and Israeli music wherever we go.”  

Members of the a capella group (photo courtesy of ApiChorus)

The group was formed in 2023 in affiliation with Harvard Hillel, bringing together undergraduates passionate about singing and Jewish culture. For many, it is not just a choir, but a community. One member shared that she joined to find a sense of belonging: 

“After October 7th, I looked around and realized that amidst friends at Harvard, nearly all of whom were non-Jewish, I did not have anyone who truly understood how I was feeling and to whom I could turn for support. As a member of ApiChorus since January 2024, I have now found my Jewish community here.”  

While the final setlist for the TAU concert is still in the works, expect to hear an eclectic mix of music—from energetic pop hits from icons like Shakira and Billy Joel, heartfelt Yiddish folk melodies, and beloved Israeli classics. 

ApiChorus vocalists (photo courtesy of ApiChorus)

Some of the group members have shared their personal favorites. Soprano Anna Gamburd loves Al Kol Eleh by Naomi Shemer, a song that reminds her of people she loves, and Kilafti Tapuz by Arik Einstein, which she describes as sounding “like a René Magritte painting.” 

Tenor Mark Takken is particularly excited about Lo T’natschu Oti by Naomi Shemer, admiring it for “its vivid imagery, beautiful melody and message of resilience.” He is looking forward to performing it at the upcoming concert. 

Adina Lippman highlights Giborei Al (Superheroes) by HaTikva 6, praising its powerful lyrics: “True, everyone looks normal. However, we’re a nation of superheroes. There is a soldier hiding in everyone, ready to save the world”.  

She explains how the song resonates deeply with her, especially after October 7th, reinforcing her sense of faith, resilience, and Jewish identity: 

“Israel is a nation of resilience, strength, and bitakhon [security]—we are superheroes through our tefillot, chessed, and mitzvot, bringing goodness into the world.”—Adina Lippman

This past year, ApiChorus has performed at schools, synagogues, and Harvard-wide events, including the Harvard Arts First music festival. On their recent tour to New York City, the group performed at 10 concerts in just under 36 hours, singing for schools, synagogues, a senior center, and even in Central Park—all for a total of over 1,200 people. 

ApiChorus at one of their performances (photo courtesy of ApiChorus)

Now, they are bringing that same energy and passion to Israel:  

“We look forward to singing with you and working with you on this mission to bring Harvard’s display of musical positivity to Israel.”