Testimonials

"Leah Shoshanah brought exactly what our community needed during a challenging time. As tensions ran high in our congregation around differing perspectives on Israel and Palestine, her work as a bridge-builder and healer through music was precisely what could serve us."
— Michael Margolin, Congregation Tikkun V'Or (Ithaca, NY)

"We had the extraordinary joy and privilege of welcoming Leah Shoshanah as our cantorial soloist over the High Holy Days this year. She was both an incredibly spiritual presence and a consummate professional… We were particularly touched by her own compositions, which clearly came directly from her heart. A number of my members described being moved to tears multiple times during the ten days. She is a gift to every community that is fortunate enough to have the opportunity to host her."
— Rabbi Shoshana Kaminsky, Temple Beth-El (South Bend, IN)

"Leah is a masterful teacher and facilitator. For the Spirit Jam, she brought together a great group of people and guided us through two hours of activity: teachings to focus our breathing and games to encourage us to use our voices in different ways – all in preparation for the spirit jam itself, where we improvised sound and rhythm for an extended time. I loved it."
— Caryn Chaden, Spirit Jam Participant

"Anyone who is looking for a cantorial soloist should jump at the chance to work with Leah Shoshanah. She strikes this rare mix of knowing the traditional songs and blessings so well, at the same time as bringing her own deep and meaningful originality to bear."
— Maya Schenwar, former client

"Throughout my years as a fan, I have witnessed Leah's music transform the human soul and bring people together in community, where all may be themselves without judgment. Leah's music deeply encourages transformation through direct action, helping others discover the power that has always been within themselves to bring real, positive change to the human experience."
— Bryson Burnside, frequent concert attendee

"Leah has the gift of songwriting that is compelling and new, yet rooted in, motivated by, an earlier time, when the now nostalgic genre of the folk ballad Americana was in its innocence."
— Erich DeHaven

"Leah Shoshanah brought such depth, passion, compassion, humor, and a wonderful spirit of generosity to her incredible musical performance. With her beautiful voice and creative songwriting, she gave us two hours of uplifting music. At times sad, at times joyful, at times humorous, always right to the heart. And she really tuned into our beautiful community and how we work hard to include everyone. It was an evening that will resonate for me for a long time." 

— Annie, Congregation Tikkun V'Or (Ithaca, NY)

“Thanks to Leah Shoshanah, we’ve fallen in love with coming to services again. Her deep and lively music awakens something in all of us. She blends creativity and artistry in a way that lifts our spirits and elevates our worship.”

— Rabbi Schachar Orenstein, Shir Hadash, Wheeling, IL

Leah help me pull off a surprise proposal my girlfriend. It was perfect! I was not easy client (cancelling, changing up my asks) but she rolled with it and made it the most special moment. Her voice is incredible. Sweet. Easy to listen to. I can't not say enough good things about my experience. If you ever get the chance, hire her! 

– Ron D. 

“Anyone who is looking for a cantorial soloist should jump at the chance to work with Leah Shoshanah. She strikes this rare mix of knowing the traditional songs and blessings so well, at the same time as bringing her own deep and meaningful originality to bear.”

—Maya Schenwar, editor-in-chief of Truthout Magazine, Chicago

“I was deeply moved by the beauty and power of her voice and presence. Leah combines traditional songs and blessings, her own original music and a passion for social justice in a way that immediately invited me into the congregation. With respect and love, Leah shares music in many languages and heritages, highlighting our human interconnectedness at a time when the world is in such deep need for compassion, justice, peace and solidarity. Over the last ten years, it’s been exciting to observe Leah develop as a musician—her voice both grounded and ethereal.  I have also had the chance to sing alongside Leah as part of Music Makers, an experience that has been deeply fulfilling and exciting, an immensely enriching and joyous opportunity. By helping me to grow as a musician, Leah has extended kindness and generosity that means the world to me.”

—Deborah Adelman, Chicago

“Leah Shoshanah brought her wonderful spirit and positive energy to our community, and her music, including original pieces, was uplifting and inspiring! She brings her all to the project! She sings from the heart, and connects with the people she is working with and singing with.

-Rabbi Shalom Bochner, B’nai Israel Jewish Center, Petaluma CA

“Leah Shoshanah has a true gift. Not only is her voice gorgeous, but she has a way of conveying deep emotions through her vocals and lyrics. She sang at my brother’s funeral, and again at a memorial event, and it was just what I needed on my healing journey. Sometimes words are not adequate enough for full expression. Leah Shoshanah’s music can bring one to that next level. I cannot say enough good things about her.”

— Alison Galanopoulos, Chicago

“We had the extraordinary experience of working with Leah as she guided our granddaughter through her Bat-Mitzvah journey. With her open, caring and creative spirit, Leah nurtured in our granddaughter a depth and passion for her Judaism that culminated in a remarkable Bat-Mitzvah experience for our entire family. Without reservation, we commend Leah to any family seeking compassionate and spiritual guidance for a creative Bar or Bat-Mitzvah. Leah's talent and vision created an experience we will never forget. Thank you, Leah, for a such remarkable gift.”

— Arthur Green, Chicago

“Leah has been performing monthly for the past several years at the retirement home where I work. She has an incredible voice and can sing any style of music. The residents look forward to her concerts every month, as do members of our staff.”

— Benna Kessler, The SelfHelp Home

“Spirit Jam is a great container for making music and authentic connections with others. Leah’s extensive experience as a musician, vocalist, and voice teacher, along with her sense of play and deep respect & appreciation for spiritual life, gave this container a beautiful sense of safety & joyful belonging in which it was easeful, not only to vocalize & improvise with others, but also to learn more about my own voice and musicality, and grow in capacity & depth of sharing music with others. I appreciated Leah’s sensitive and thoughtful leadership, and would recommend her Spirit Jam to others looking to connect in spirit, making music, & jamming out!”

— Corey Palmer, Chicago

“Leah Shoshanah’s voice is so beautiful. But that’s not the half of it. There’s a spiritual aspect to her presentation that delivers emotional impact & connection. When my brother died, we knew some people attending the memorial service would be well-steeped in Jewish tradition… others, not at all. No matter… Leah gave a simple and clear explanation prior to each musical selection. Afterward, a long-time friend and neighbor told me: “I’ve been to a million Jewish funerals. But before today, I don’t think I ever understood what was actually going on …” And several people commented on the beauty of her voice. I appreciate that Leah was so flexible in choosing a musical selection that fit our particular needs. She added so much to the mood of the service, helping make it meaningful, I think, for so many of us.”

— Linda Paul, Chicago

“Leah’s a terrific musician. She worked closely with me in leading services at Temple Israel in Springfield, IL and we were always fortunate to have her. Congregants really loved her music and creativity. I can’t recommend her enough.”

— Rabbi Greg Kanter, Temple Brith Shalom, Springfield, IL