Last Shabbat, Woodford Forest United Synagogue was privileged to welcome back Chazan Jonny Turgel and his lovely family for what has now become an eagerly anticipated annual tradition. Remarkably, this was Jonny’s third visit and yet again, each time feels more spectacular than the last. Our community has come to expect something uplifting when Jonny joins us, but this Shabbat surpassed all expectations. From the moment Kabbalat Shabbat began, it was clear we were in for something special. Jonny has an extraordinary ability to blend traditional chazanut with contemporary tunes in a way that feels both authentic and refreshingly modern. His concentration and devotion to the davening is legendary, and hearing him daven is an experience that lifts the entire congregation. What is most striking is that he doesn’t simply perform, he brings the community with him, creating a participatory service filled with energy, warmth, and spiritual depth.
This year saw several new innovations, including a series of beautiful duets between Jonny and Rabbi Wollenberg. Their musical chemistry has grown over years of friendship, and it showed. The harmonies were rich, seamless, and at times profoundly moving, a testament not only to Jonny’s artistry but also to Rabbi W’s own vocal development. As many know, Rabbi W has been taking singing lessons with Jonny for several years and openly attributes much of his growth in chazanut and musical confidence to Jonny’s mentorship and encouragement. Their collaboration is becoming a highlight in its own right. Following a community Friday night meal (made by the Rebbetzen assisted by Karen Wise and Lydia Freedman), the community gathered for a kumzitz that carried on well into the night. The ruach was nothing short of electric with soulful melodies, heartfelt singing, and an atmosphere that made people want to stay, linger, and keep singing “just one more.” Moments like these create lasting memories and strengthen the bonds of a community in ways formal programming never quite can.
We are deeply grateful to Geoff Rosenberg, who generously sponsored the weekend in memory of his parents, Moshe ben Yitzchak and Faige Rochel bas Chazkel. May their souls have an aliyah through the Torah, tefillah, and song that filled our shul in their merit. Jonny’s annual visits have now become a defining feature of our calendar, a weekend that brings the community together through music, inspiration, and friendship. We very much hope to welcome him back next year, continuing to build on this beautiful tradition.
20 November 2025