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Enhance the Concert Experience with a Sam Glaser Workshop!
Most workshops can be given as a single 45-70 minute class, or broadened into two or three separate sessions. Additionally, highlights can be distilled into 15-20 minute keynote addresses. Each presentation can be tailored to meet the needs of any given audience; from ages 12 to 120, from educators to executives, layleaders to community members. All options are interactive and filled with humor, anecdotes and music.
Call Marcia Baron at 800-9-SAMMYG to customize a program for your group.
“I just wanted you to know that I had a great experience at CAJE and you were the reason. Your classes were a catalyst for me to explore Judiasm again. I'm getting a Siddur and I’m going to start my morning with prayer and gratitude...I have you to thank for that.”
–Steve Zimmerman, Charleston, SC
“Sam loves to teach and loves Judaism. It makes for a great combination. His energy really comes through on Monday after Monday when I drag myself half asleep from work for the hour and a half trek to LA. Inevitably I come home more awake and peaceful than I when I left." –Batya Amit, Los Alamitos, CA
“You make such a real and deep connection with those around you. The work you do is important on so many different levels. I truly enjoyed your presentation of the how to observe the first of the Ten Commandments...even your digressions never fail to entertain.”
–Janice Rubin, Houston, TX
Workshop descriptions
1. TEACHING THE BEAUTY OF TEFILLAH THROUGH SONG
How can we make prayer the most meaningful part of our day? In this inspiring workshop we will dispel misconceptions about Jewish prayer and concentrate on key points to improve comprehension and focus. In addition we will learn the genesis of the basic concepts of our siddur, the deeper meanings behind specific prayers and the role of our traditional melodies, trope and nusach. This workshop is guaranteed to invigorate each participants' personal prayer experience.
2. EXPLORING THE LAST FRONTIER: DISCOVERING THE FASCINATING BOUNDARIES OF THE SOUL
Take a journey into the Kabbalistic teachings concerning the human soul. How can we know that we have one? What's the difference between nefesh, ruach and n'shama? How do Jewish and gentile souls compare? A remarkable, common sense methodology to understanding our role in the spiritual realm and our relationship with our Creator in day-to-day life.
3. AN APPROACH TO JEWISH UNITY: THE LIFE OF RABBI SHLOMO CARLEBACH IN STORY AND SONG
Relive a musical history of the life of Rabbi Carlebach, sharing his brilliant songs, stories and Torah insights. We will analyze a variety of his teachings in order to understand his method for bringing healing and renewed passion to Jewish life. Sam enjoyed several treasured opportunities as Rabbi Carlebach's accompanist on West Coast tours and in Israel during the last several years of his life. Be prepared to sing and dance, reflect and reminisce as we gain new perspectives into the vast legacy that Reb Shlomo left behind.
4. ACROSS THE RIVER: USING OUR TEXTS TO RE"JEW'VENATE OURSELVES
How can we use our Tanach to inspire and serve as a catalyst for personal growth? How can we find hidden meanings behind the drama of biblical narrative and incorporate the messages into our lives? This class focuses on proven methods of interpreting and adding personal commentary to our sacred texts through the medium of music. Live renditions of several selections from Sam Glaser's CDs will be interwoven into the discussion and the class will collaborate in the creation of a new setting of liturgy.
5. AWAKENING THE MUSE: MAXIMIZE YOUR CREATIVITY NOW!
We're so quick to assume that creativity remains the birthright of fine artists and musical prodigies. Creative concepts can and should be learned by those in every field to enhance productivity and fulfillment. Learn to emulate the greatest Creator of them all as we break down our barriers to creativity and hone our muse with a variety of exciting and revealing exercises. This workshop is highly interactive and spontaneous and ideal for grade school kids through adults.
6. ALEPH BAIS MEETS DO-RE-MI: MUSICAL CONCEPTS IN KABBALAH
This workshop offers a look at the remarkable ties between basic musical concepts and our lashon ha-kodesh, the holy language of Hebrew. Gain insight into the profound symmetry and hidden meanings of a variety of Hebrew words. We will examine how solfege (the do-re-mi) relates to gematria (Jewish numerology,) the spiritual impact of melody and harmony on the celestial spheres, and the significance of the Levite orchestra during the First and Second Temple periods.
7. INSIDE THE TWILLIGHT ZONE: DEMYSTIFYING THE JEWISH CONCEPTION OF THE AFTERLIFE
How do our sages describe what happens after we die? What does Judaism say about such concepts as reincarnation, ghosts, heaven and hell? What is Olam Habah? What is the connection between the latest research in "Near Death Experience" and the teachings of Kabbalah? Learn how our ancient philosophies of the afterlife can be instrumental in maximizing our potential in our day-to-day existence.
8. AN ENCOUNTER WITH THE MYSTICAL DELIGHTS OF THE SABBATH
Explore the miracle of weekly renewal that is the Jewish experience of the Sabbath. Examine the clues in our texts that help us perceive how Shabbat has "kept the Jews" over the millenia. How can the various halachic restrictions that shape the day contribute to our sense of personal freedom? How can we maximize our use of music, food, prayer and communal interaction? Participants will emerge with a renewed appreciation of our weekly taste of heaven, empowered with practical steps to increase one's enjoyment of the seventh day.
9. IF I FORGET THEE, OH JERUSALEM: A PRIMER ON THE JEWISH LOVE AFFAIR WITH THE LAND OF ISRAEL
What is the secret behind our eternal obsession with the Holy Land? How has our spiritual and historical relationship changed over the course of the millenia? Why was this unique plot of land chosen? Why is Jerusalem referred to throughout the Torah as "the place that I will show you?" This workshop will elucidate the phenomenon of the centrality of Israel to the Jewish people.
10. A CLOSER LOOK AT THE WEEKLY PARSHA
Using ancient and modern commentaries we will analyze the relevant Torah portion of the week. Questions to be explored include: why any given passage was included in the text, why was it worded in any particular way, how the portion relates to the Chumash as a whole and how midrashim and the haftorah might relate. Even the most confusing and seemingly archaic chapters can present powerful and useful lessons in any age.
11. THE GIFT OF THE "EVIL INCLINATION"
Did G-d create evil? Why were we given the "yetzer harah" or evil inclination in the first place? How do our sages describe its manifestation? What's the difference between mental illness and evil? What exactly transpired in the Garden of Eden? We will explore the genesis of our dueling internal voices and establish clear cut methodologies we can employ to use the yetzer harah to our advantage.
12. IMPERFECTLY PERFECT: CONFRONTING THE LEGACY OF IMPERFECTION IN OUR BIBLICAL HEROES
We live within the paradox that our human frailties are created by a Perfect and Benevolent Being. How can we use the examples of our role models in the Torah to enhance our understanding of ourselves? How can we choose which traits to embody? Using the Chumash and Midrashim we will learn to personalize our reading of history and enhance our lifelong quest for self-improvement.
13. RESTORING THE "RICH" IN OUR FAMILY RITUALS
The term "ritual" connotes a customarily repeated action, mindlessly performed out of a sense of habit or duty. We will explore the the primary holidays in the Jewish calendar, investigating methods that can create a sense of excitement when each unique opportunity returns. What are the clues in our Torah and liturgy that help us perceive how our festivals can enhance our lives? How can we maximize our use of ritual objects, holiday music, food, prayer to enhance family interaction? Participants will emerge with a renewed appreciation of our chagim, empowered with practical steps to increase their community's enjoyment of the holiday.
14. IN SEARCH OF THE FIRST COMMANDMENT
How do we perform the "I am G-d" commandment? What do our sages recommend for the fulfillment of this first mitzvah of the decalogue? How can we incorporate this commandment into every mitzvah that we do? This workshop will examine the positions held by the Ramban, Ramban and Ibn Ezra. It will elucidate methods for developing "eyes" to percieve G-d in every aspect of life, as well as recommending techniques for enhancing and repairing connection with the Divine. Participants will gain a new understanding of the significance of the entire body of mitzvot and an appreciation of G-d's critical role in our shaping our past, present and future.
15. MATRIX AS MIDRASH: Using Popular Media to Communicate Judaism's Essence
Some of the best teaching aids available are presently playing in the neighborhood multiplex. Because such blockbuster productions as Bruce Almighty, The Truman Show, The Matrix, Pleasantville and Defending Your Life are perceived as being "cool" by teens, they can engage students within a shared frame of reference to drive home crucial points in Jewish philosophy. Utilizing his experience educating audiences of young people in synagogues, youth group conventions and middle and high school retreats, Sam will illuminate how theological themes in popular films can be integrated into the lesson plan.
16. IN SEARCH OF SMALL MIRACLES: A Methodology to Maximize Heavenly Connections
We have read the books, heard the stories and had our own run-ins with "incredible coincidences." We hear accounts of channeling, telepathy, Divine guidance. This course will discuss a technique not only to analyze these situations but to also create an environment where they can readily occur. Participants will emerge better equipped to perceive and interpret heavenly messages and will be invited to share descriptions of personal encounters.
17. WHY DOES THE MESSIAH MATTER? Living With Rambam's 12th Principle
The belief in a messianic age runs through both materialistic, secular ideologies and religious/mystical beliefs. It is a phenomenon that crosses religious boundaries and cultures. And yet, the Jewish discussion of the concept makes many uncomfortable. This workshop will dispel misconceptions and clarify how the Jewish messianic vision is a logical imperative of our faith.
18. BUILD A BRIDGE: DAILY EXERCISES TO CREATE JEWISH UNITY
Jewish unity and conflict resolution is the theme of Sam Glaser's popular CD release and the focus of his The Bridge 50 city Concert tour. This groundbreaking album takes a variety of messages from Israel's popular Common Denominator seminars and brings them to life within each of the fifteen songs. Jewish Unity is not an abstract concept. Learn practical techniques for bringing Jews of all ages and denominations together. Participants will sing and study as we use the unifying power of music to connect to one another.
19. ULTIMATE THOUGHTS: UNLOCKING THE POTENTIAL OF THE AMIDAH
All too often we recite our central prayers without focus or enthusiasm. This workshop is designed to analyze the origin and intent behind this crucial series of blessings as well as to suggest methodologies for improving our spiritual experience with each repetition. We will decode the genius of the text word for word, highlighting hidden patterns and opportunities therein for personal and national transcendence.
20. HINENI: ANSWERING THE CALL IN TROUBLED TIMES
We feel sickened by each subsequent incident of terrorism, grow alarmed at rising international anti-Semitism and feel powerless amidst escalating assimilation. This workshop is designed to awaken participants from our collective lethargy, replacing feelings of helplessness with personal empowerment. We will analyze the examples of our biblical and modern heroes in times of adversity, gain perspective on our unique historical mission, and learn techniques to respond with renewed strength and hope rather than despair
21. MOONDANCE: THE INNER SECRETS OF ROSH CHODESH AND THE LUNAR CALENDAR
In the midst of the fire and brimstone of the ten plagues and the final destruction of Egypt the Torah pauses to instruct us to count the months...Rosh Chodesh becomes first commandment given to the Jews as a people. We will analyze the significance of this lunar anniversary and its relationship to the Exodus, Passover and the Jewish future.
22 . WHAT THE BLEEP DO WE KNOW: Physics meets Torah on the Silver Screen
Take a mind-bending voyage through the worlds of science and spirituality and discover how revelations by quantum physics experts concur with the millennia-old secrets of Kabbalah. We will view clips of the journey of the film’s protagonist in unlocking a “new” understanding of reality…one that the Jewish people have been discussing for millennia. Join us and see why this groundbreaking movie became such a popular and contreversial film. Participants will emerge with a powerful tool to teach tweens through adults about the remarkable connections between modern day physics and Jewish mystical tradition
23. THE ART OF THE NIGUN: Using powerful melodies to access the highest heights…no words required!
This practical workshop will look at historical and present day uses of the nigun (spiritual wordless melody) to reach states of ecstasy and connectedness. Examples of classic Chasidic melodies will be interwoven from Sam Glaser and RebbeSoul’s groundbreaking CD The Nigun Project. Be prepared to sing, sway and daven and experience oneness like never before.
24. VOICES FOR ISRAEL...THE WORKSHOP
This workshop will elucidate the phenomenon of the centrality of Israel to the Jewish people, opportunities for response in times of crisis and the power of music to help bind us to the Land and to each other. Voices for Israel is a not-for-profit organization that uses contemporary music to send messages of unity and connection around the globe. To date, two double CDs and videos have been released, involving over three hundred Jewish musicians and singers and inspiring countless thousands of listeners. We will analyze the themes of these moving songs and explore how they can impart the deepest feelings of empathy with Israel’s triumphs and tragedies. Sam Glaser has served as co-producer and consultant with the VFI organization.
25. THE ART OF AMAZEMENT: Using Judaism’s Powerful Tools to Create and Maintain a Sense of Wonder
We will explore opportunities to make “everyday” life into a bounty of amazement and excitement, stimulating deeper investigation into the teachings of Judaism on a lifelong quest for pleasure. The tools for enlightenment and awareness made popular in new age movements have roots in our heritage. This workshop will examine these ancient tools, offering participants a daily “wake up call” to the inner child and the ability to maintain a state of perpetual “wow!”
26. TRANSCENDENTAL JEWISH YOGA
Torah is the wisdom and the way that has guided the Jewish people for thousands of years. Yoga is the ancient practice of using breath and movement to enlighten body, mind, heart, and soul. Using Jewish wisdom from traditional and mystical texts and spiritual Jewish music and chants, participants will emerge with a practice that can allow for lifelong healthfulness and inspiration. This workshop is an active yoga class in the ashtanga tradition, led by Sam. Yoga mats and an open mind are all that is required for a healthy, spiritual hour long journey.
27. HALLELUYA FOR HALLEL!
We chant the Hallel service about forty times a year. It is perhaps the most jubilant and ecstatic section of the siddur and is performed during the most joyous points of the annual holiday cycle. It is also perhaps the most rushed, abridged and/or neglected part of the prayer book. This workshop will explore the use the Hallel service as a launching pad for communal song, spontaneous dancing, nurturing gratitude and powerfully connecting with G-d. We will discuss its origins, hidden meanings and modern relevance. Live and recorded examples from Sam Glaser’s Hallel CD will be woven into the discussion.
28. SEASONS OF JOY: A Weekly Overview in Torah Living
Using the calendar as our guide we will explore both spiritual and legalistic aspects of Judasim. Be prepared to sing, laugh and ponder one's deepest questions in a relaxed, discussion-oriented atmosphere. Each weekly class includes twenty minutes on the Torah portion of the week, twenty minutes on Jewish philosophy, twenty minutes on Jewish law or a discussion of upcoming holidays and fifteen minutes for questions. While participants are welcome to attend as many classes as they are able, the course is best appreciated by consistent attendance over one entire year. See the Seasons of Joy syllabus for full details.
