It is an honour and a privilege to serve as
President of the Toronto Council of Hazzanim for the next two years. Our organization is comprised of Cantors from the Orthodox, Conservative and Reform movements of Judaism and Toronto is one of the few cities in the world that has such an active and involved group of Cantors. My mandate for the next two years is threefold.

First, to continue to improve and hone our skills as Cantors by inviting professionals to our monthly meetings who can share their knowledge; be it vocally or liturgically.

Second, to do our part in Tikkun Olam - helping to make the world a better place. We can continue to accomplish this by supporting charities that are already known to us and by seeking new and deserving charities. We can continue to travel to cities across the world and give of ourselves by leading services at synagogues that do not have a Cantor and by concertizing in communities that are not ordinarily exposed to Jewish music. This past year, Cantor Eric Moses and I traveled to Havana, Cuba where we led Shabbat services. In addition, we brought much needed pharmaceuticals for the Synagogue which also serves as a community pharmacy. And as I write this message the wheels are in motion for our organization to put on a concert in Sudbury, Ontario.

Third, to ensure the continuation and preservation of our noble profession by having scholarships available for aspiring Cantors.
The role of the Cantor has evolved over the years. While the most visible part of our profession is the time we spend in the Synagogue chanting the liturgy, the Cantor involves himself/herself in many other aspects of Synagogue life. We create positive and lasting impressions with children when we spend time teaching B'nei Mitzvah, we offer comfort to families by visiting the sick in hospitals or at Shiva houses when they have suffered a bereavement, we have a strong presence in the community by taking part in events such as Yom Hashoah, and we have regular Toronto Council of Hazzanim Concerts that raise much needed funds for charities and Cantorial scholarships.

May we all go from stength to strength.

Best wishes,

Cantor Ben Silverberg