The music on this video combines two original compositions by Stuart Rosenthal, who has set to music a number of Hebrew passages from Tehillim (the Book of Psalms) and from the traditional Jewish prayer service. Together, the album is titled "Songs for Our Times."

The songs were composed a few months after the events that took place in Israel on October 7, 2023. The words were selected to be inspiring and uplifting, and set to music composed for the same purpose.

The sources used in this recording are 1) for "Rachamecha," Psalms 40:12 ("Don't withhold Your mercy from me; may Your lovingkindness and truth always protect me") and 2) for "HeMechadesh," the blessings before the daily Shema ("He who renews in His goodness every single day the work of creation").

It is hoped that these songs will bring comfort to those who hear them.
It is also the composer's wish that the melodies themselves will come to be used by those who lead prayer services. For example, the tune to Rachamecha would fit nicely to "Pitchu Li" and "Odecha," while the tune to HaMechadesh would work for "Hallelu" and the responsive "Hodu," all of which are part of the Hallel service.

The composer thanks Ron Brookler for his generous assistance with producing the recording and incorporating the AI voices used.

Photo credits:
Photo 97163811 | Mother Deer Fawn © Paul Farnfield | Dreamstime.com
Rosette Nebula, ESA/Hubble
Niagara Falls Rainbow, Stuart Rosenthal
Photo 69377944 | Mother Deer Fawn © Stevehymon | Dreamstime.com