The Martha’s Vineyard Hebrew Center celebrates the end of summer on Friday with a unique Taylor Swift-style Shabbat at State Beach.
While the Hebrew Center often holds its Shabbat by the sea, Rabbi Caryn Broitman said this is the first time they have chosen to include the famous pop star’s music in their programming. The service begins at 6 p.m. on Aug. 23 and will include sing-alongs and analysis of five of Ms. Swift’s hits, including “Invisible String” and “You Need To Calm Down.”
Rabbi Broitman said she began listening to Ms. Swift’s music about a year ago on the recommendation of her daughter. She said she believes Ms. Swift’s poetic lyrics reflect the spirit of Jewish culture and wanted to share her analysis with the community.
“I’ve found that music, especially music with poignant and spiritual poetry, really enriches the prayer experience,” said Rabbi Broitman. “I think Taylor Swift is one of the most powerful lyricists today.”
Although Ms. Swift often talks about her Christian faith and references the Bible in many of her songs, Rabbi Broitman said her music still resonates with Jews.
“The things that (Ms. Swift) sings are the things that the Jewish tradition thinks about, teaches and has wisdom for,” Rabbi Broitman said.
She cited Invisible String as an example. The song describes a hidden connection between people that stands the test of time. Rabbi Broitman said that Judaism follows a similar philosophy and that it can feel wonderful when that connection is recognized.
Rabbi Broitman said the service will follow the usual Shabbat routine. Jessica Sanseverino, a music teacher at Tisbury School, will sing with Jack Crawford, accompanied by guitarist Eric Johnson and drummer Anthony Esposito.
While many organizations use Ms. Swift’s music to reach young adults, teenagers and children, that was not the motivation of the Hebrew Center. Rabbi Broitman said Ms. Swift’s music resonates with people of all ages.
“In our religious school, there are kids who are eight or nine years old who love Taylor Swift,” she said. “In our community, there are also people who are 80 or older who are Swift fans… She really speaks to people of all ages.”
