In Person at the Weitzman
6 PM ET Cash Bar | 7 PM ET Concert 
$20 General Admission | $15 Members

Register Here

Join us for a captivating evening with singer, fiddler, and songwriter Lily Henley as she takes the stage to celebrate the rich tradition of Sephardic Jewish ballads. Through her distinctive contemporary interpretation, Henley offers a powerful exploration of these melodies, connecting audiences to the enduring legacy of the Sephardi people. With the release of her album Oras Dezaoradas on Lior Éditions Records, she breathes new life into the critically endangered musical tradition of Ladino—a rich cultural expression rooted in an ancient language once spoken by Sephardic Jews, blending elements of Spanish, Hebrew, Arabic, Turkish, and Persian, and characterized by its distinctive style of music. In doing so, she forges a connection with centuries of women scattered across a global diaspora, reclaiming and revitalizing these melodies that carry the hopes, dreams, and stories of the Sephardi people.

As we gather for this concert, we also remember Flory Jagoda, a beloved figure in Sephardic music who passed away just four years ago. Jagoda’s legacy continues to inspire and resonate through Henley’s work, reminding us of the importance of preserving these rich Jewish musical traditions.

More about Lily Henley

Known for her expressive songwriting and bell-like vocals, Henley masterfully intertwines her American and Celtic roots with the rich cultural history of her Sephardi ancestors. Her performances are a celebration of ancient and modern influences, weaving together languages, cultures, and styles to highlight their interconnectedness. Henley’s repertoire encompasses both her Sephardi musical lineage and a broad array of folk influences, inviting listeners to connect with their own heritage in a profound and intimate way.

Lily Henley has graced stages at prestigious venues such as Carnegie Hall and the New York Sephardic Music Festival. A recipient of the esteemed Fulbright award, she has also toured as a front-woman with the mystic-folk band Rising Appalachia, collaborating with notable artists across the folk spectrum​.

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to experience the enchanting melodies and heartfelt stories that Lily Henley brings to life.

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.