REMEMBERING YIGAL CALEK Z"L

Yigal Calek’s passing has stirred deep nostalgia for those who cherished his music and teaching. A gifted musician with the heart of a teacher, Calek’s compositions transformed obscure Jewish texts into unforgettable melodies. His music not only entertained but taught, inspired, and connected listeners to their heritage. Through Yigal’s legacy, we are reminded that nostalgia is more than emotional longing-it’s about cherishing the lessons and joy that continue to resonate and shape us today.

[@ngoodman7516]

Thank you (again) Pini. You quoted one of Yigal's songs, "וכי ידיו של משה עושות מלחמה או שוברות מלחמה?" We sang this at my Bar Mitzvah shabbos lunch, July 1970 at 30 Lordship Park, as my father had inserted this question and answer from משנה ר"ה into my drosha; and your father R' Abba ז"ל was at the head of the table singing along with my father. And then we sang Yigal's אלקים יסעדנו ברכה במאודנו and אלה ברכב ואלה בסוסים (a personal favorite). I had recently attended "choir practice" and, at the time, had no idea what the words meant or where they were from. Over the years as I learned the source and meaning of the lyrics of Yigal's songs, I came to appreciate them even more. I can imagine Yigal and Reb Shlomo jamming together somewhere on high. תנצב"ה

[@CGoldstein]

Thank you for this beautiful tribute to Reb Yigal. I also grew up with his songs and I agree with every word you said about him being a masterful teacher through his songs especially the ones you highlighted. May his memory be a blessing.

[@ShimonEdelson-c3r]

Rabbi dunner your words arroused alot of emotion in me! My name is shimon from united states and your choir was my favorite! Each song a deep inspiration and you gave a great nostalgic briefing of rav yigal and thank you yehi zichro baruch

[@avieshapiro4607]

Rabbi Dunner- thank you for sharing your meaningful memories of Yigal Calek. I was in my 30's when Yigal's music hit the Jewish music world. His songs were captivating and catchy. It was nearly impossible not to be drawn in and sing along with the choir. I had the pleasure of watching the reunion of the adult former choir members.

[@n.aronson3165]

Absolutely true, every word of it. Thank you Rav Pini!

[@nitush1000]

thank you for sharing! that was so touching.

[@menachemsayagh]

thak you rabbi pini

[@menachemsayagh]

yigal yisrael will surely be a mailitz yosher for you