Menorah Glow

The Hanukkah menorah is a nine-branched candelabrum that is lit during the eight day celebration of The Festival of Lights. On each night of Hanukkah, a new branch is lit. The ninth holder, called the shammash (which means "helper" or "servant"), holds the candle that is used to light all of the other candles. Typically, the shammash is offset on a higher or lower plane than the other eight candles.

"Menorah Glow" is a very pretty, floating song that describes how the menorah is used and how it enhances family gatherings during this happy time of year. Your older singers will appreciate the song's sophistication with its gentle melody and unique chord progressions, but it is still relatively easy enough for your younger singers to learn as well.

The accompaniment features piano, strings, guitar, bass, flute, and clarinet. Note that the tempo ebbs and flows a bit. These changes are marked in the score and occur where you would expect them. By the way, the provided piano part is really fun to play. It would be great to do a live performance with piano, flute, and guitar.

When referring to the lyrics of the song, be sure to explain to your singers that "shalom" (used in measure 34) is a Hebrew term of greeting or farewell and can mean "peace," "be well," "be safe," etc.

Beginning at measure 29 there is a second vocal part. It is optional but it really does add to the drama of the piece. On our web site, you will find an isolated part 2 rehearsal track that will help your singers learn the part. (See details on page 79.)