In Person at the Weitzman
6:30 PM ET Cash Bar | 7:30 PM ET Concert 
$25 General Admission | $20 Members

Register Here | IN Person

As the days grow shorter and the weather turns colder, there’s no better time to gather and warm our spirits through the power of music. Join us for an unforgettable evening with RAZA, a groundbreaking all female musical project led by Chana Raskin. RAZA reimagines traditional Hasidic niggunim—sacred melodies (usually sung by men)—through the lens of feminine voices, offering a unique and soulful experience that transcends gender and denominational boundaries. The concert will delve into the spiritual depth of these melodies, inviting audience members to actively sing along with the ensemble and connect with Jewish tradition in a fresh and profound way. Expect an evening of communal singing, spiritual exploration, and an intimate atmosphere that bridges the sacred and the contemporary.

More About Chana Raskin
Chana Raskin, the creative force behind RAZA, has a deeply rooted connection to Jewish musical traditions. Growing up in the Chabad community of Crown Heights, New York, she was surrounded by the rich heritage of niggunim—wordless melodies central to the Hasidic spiritual practice. These early influences, combined with her personal journey of recovery after a traumatic brain injury, led her to form RAZA. What began as intimate singing circles for women has evolved into a powerful musical project, blending ancient melodies with contemporary voices. Raskin’s work is not just about preserving tradition but also about making it accessible and resonant for new generations​.

This concert not only showcases the ensemble’s remarkable talent but also highlights their debut album, Kapelya, which features professional recordings of Hasidic niggunim performed exclusively by women. Released in February 2024, the album has received critical acclaim for its authenticity and emotional depth, embodying a new chapter in the representation of women in Jewish music​.

More About Secret Chord Concerts
The Secret Chord Concerts series at The Weitzman offers audiences a unique opportunity to experience the depth and diversity of Jewish musical traditions. These concerts showcase celebrated Jewish musicians from around the world, highlighting a broad spectrum of styles, heritages, and histories. The series is recorded live at the museum, creating an intimate atmosphere that connects performers and audiences in a meaningful way. Each episode, later released online, serves as a testament to the enduring influence of Jewish culture in music, aligning with The Weitzman’s mission to celebrate and preserve the richness of the American Jewish experience.

The Weitzman received funding in support of this project from the PA Council of the Arts, a state agency funded by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the National Endowment for the Arts.