Hillel International Hosts Northeast Hillels A Cappella Competition to Showcase Jewish Student A Cappella Groups
Over 250 Jewish participants from across the Northeast came together to foster unity and celebrate Jewish identity through musical expression.
On March 1, Hillel International hosted over 200 Jewish students, alumni, community members, and music enthusiasts at the University of Maryland to celebrate Jewish joy and creativity. The a cappella competition showcased Jewish student a capella groups from across the region and created opportunities for students to connect.
“Hillels across the country are proud to host and support Jewish a cappella groups, which serve as a meaningful and fun way for students to engage in Jewish life and share the joy of Jewish music on their campuses,” said Hillel International President and CEO Adam Lehman, who was also a judge for this competition. “We loved bringing together some of the top Jewish a cappella groups from the Northeast to perform, compete, and build relationships with other students who share their passion.”
With over 4,500 audience members in attendance both in person and online, University of Maryland’s Rak Shalom took home the top prize in a remarkable performance.
The full list of winners is:
Audience Favorite: Rak Shalom
Best Vocal Percussionist: Natan Golding (Shir Appeal)
Best Male Soloist: Shlomi Helfgot (Magevet)
Best Female Soloists: Jamie Eisner and Liz Herman (Rak Shalom)
Best Arrangement: Rak Shalom
First Place: Rak Shalom
Jewish a cappella has grown as a vibrant expression of cultural and religious identity. This competition provided a unique space for Jewish students to celebrate their heritage through music, foster pride in their community, and create lasting connections with peers from different campuses.
A recorded version of this event is available on the Hillel International YouTube and Facebook.