Founded in 1964 by Professor Israel Adler, the Jewish Music Research Centre (JMRC) at the Hebrew University is a leading institution dedicated to the study, preservation and promotion of Jewish musical heritage. Established with a mission to explore the diverse musical traditions of Jewish communities worldwide, the Centre serves as a vital resource for scholars, musicians, and enthusiasts alike. It boasts an extensive collection of recordings, manuscripts, and publications that document the rich tapestry of Jewish music from antiquity to the present day. Through its innovative research projects, digital initiatives, and educational programs, the Centre plays a crucial role in safeguarding and enriching the global understanding of Jewish music and its cultural significance.
In 2023 the JMRC embarked on a transformative journey, thanks to a generous donation from the institution’s true friend Mr Jeffery Rose z”l through the Alan and Leslie Rose Fund. His generous gift allowed for the completion and substantial advancement of several projects during its first year of activities.
Notable achievements include The Spanish-Portuguese Jewish Liturgy by Essica Marks, a comprehensive study now available digitally and in print; Susana Weich Shahak’s Judeo-Spanish Songs for the Year Cycle enriched the Anthology of Music Traditions in Israel with a lifetime’s worth of Ladino field recordings; Barbara Johnson’s Women Songs from Cochin (Kerala) documented Jewish women’s Malayalam songs; and Edwin Seroussi and Yoram Arnon’s Ottoman Hebrew Music: The Izmir School added depth to the Yuval Music Series.
The Fund also supported the development of a new JMRC website, launched in January 2024, integrating all its publications and research on Jewish music. This digital platform reflects the Centre’s global scope and commitment to preserving Jewish musical heritage.
“The Alan and Leslie Rose Fund at the Jewish Music Research Centre has enabled numerous significant research activities, which constitutes a significant part of the JMRC’s ability to fulfil its goals. For this we are immensely grateful” said Centre Professors, Edwin Seroussi and Yoel Greenberg.