Applications are Open for the 2026
Jewish Choral Conducting Institute
The Jewish Choral Conducting Institute is the first program in the world to professionally train the next generation of conductors of Jewish choral music. The Institute, a long-held vision of Matthew Lazar, has been made possible by a major gift donated by Cantor Robert Lieberman and Rabbi Vicki Lieberman.
Matthew Lazar presents the Hallel V’Zimrah Award to Cantor Robert and Rabbi Vicki Lieberman at the 2025 North American Jewish Choral Festival, in gratitude for their support of the next generation of Jewish choral conductors. Also pictured are the members of the first cohort of Conducting Fellows.
“Choral music lies at the intersection of text, music, and community. It implants cultural identity, history, memory, and catharsis,” says Matthew Lazar. “The conductor integrates music and text, with mastery, precision, and excellence, creating inspiring and transformative musical moments. The Institute provides the specialized, intensive training needed to make all this possible.”
Each cohort is composed of 12-15 conducting students from around the world. Fellows gather at intensive in-person retreats and workshops, monthly online meetings, and receive one-on-one mentoring sessions with Maestro Matthew Lazar, founder of the Zamir Choral Foundation, as well as guest presenters. Upon completion of the program, Fellows receive a Certificate in Jewish Choral Conducting.
Maestro Lazar brings his vast knowledge of Jewish and Western music and a deep understanding of the text/music relationship that defines choral music. Through his unparalleled expertise he models, encourages, and nurtures the talents of a new generation of conductors of Jewish music.
“The Jewish Choral Conducting Institute provides a pipeline of talent to ensure strong Jewish choral leadership for the Jewish future,” adds Maestro Lazar.
The JCCI’s international Lazar Fellows deepen their development through ongoing mentoring and critique. These vital mentoring meetings foster ongoing growth within a vibrant and supportive international community of Jewish choral conductors. Fellows will acquire the skills and knowledge to enhance their work as conductors of choirs across the U.S. and beyond.
