Song and Prayer for Life Transitions
Some of the most meaningful work that I do is around the rituals of loss and the process of transition. I have sung prayers and songs at many funerals and memorials over the years. I have also sung to folks in hospice as they move through the process of passing from this life to the next.
I sing and chant traditional prayers, and I also have created my own adaptations of prayers based on research.
A clip of me singing an arrangement of Rabbi Yitzhak Husbands Hankin’s “El Malei Rachamim” with my dad accompanying me Cello. This video is from the funeral of our dear friend, Elliot Weis, who passed away in 2025.
A clip from Elliot’s memorial of a grief song that I wrote to celebrate his life. I have since shared this song with other communities who also appreciate the way the song moves grief in their spirit. The lyrics begin at 1:45.
“Leah performed three beautiful and moving songs at my sisters memorial service on very short notice as well as performing the regular prayers. Her singing was such an essential element of the service. She struck just the right tone, which must have been incredibly hard to do in this situation of such a tragic death.
One of the songs Leah sang was her own original ‘Kaddish for Those Unjustly Take,’ which is one of the most beautiful songs I know. It was so perfect for the occasion.
In addition to her incredible music, Leah was so compassionate and loving toward my family during this time of crisis. I really cannot thank her enough for her contribution to the service.”
— Maya Schenwar, Chicago
Listen to “Kaddish for Those Unjustly Taken”
Music by Leah Shoshanah, Hebrew lyrics based on the original prayer with English lyrics adapted from interpretations by Aurora Levins Morales, Sarah McCulloch and Marge Piercy.
A Sensitive Awareness of Grief & Ritual
Leah has a tender spirit. She has sung bedside for those who are ailing and in hospice. She is currently in the midst of earning her Certificate as a Music Practitioner through the Music for Healing and Transition Program, which helps inform her ability to listen and respond to the community during tender moments surrounding transitions.
This music video of her original song communicates the energy she brings to her work. Her repertoire for healing music spans Jewish prayer to Appalachian folk songs.
Are you looking for support in the process of loss?
Leah Shoshanah is available for funerals, memorials and bedside music. She can also create custom rituals for your family or community.
