July 7 marked 9 months since the tragic war in Israel. The Toronto Jewish community came out on solidarity to demand the release the hostages held by Hamas. Families of hostages came from Israel to speak, to witness our support, and to stand with Israel. There were many speakers, including a friendly MP from Ottawa who spoke through tears about his support for Israel and fighting antisemitism. I was privileged to offer these two prayers for the captives and the IDF.

—Beny

On Sunday, June, 9, in Toronto, I walked with 50,000+ supporters of Israel. Thank you to the thousands of police officers who kept us safe from pro-Hamas hate protesters lining the route. And to the many non-Jewish supporters who walked in solidarity with us.

—Beny

On May 4, 2024, I celebrated my 80th birthday with my Holy Blossom Temple community. Enjoy this video of the beautiful Shabbat service.

—Beny

This two-part PowerPoint presentation traces my personal journey and history through the development of the Israeli song culture, over seven decades. With extensive audio and visual examples, we will explore the meanings of the decade’s most significant songs, and the background and circumstances that led to the creation of each one.

I hope you can join me on May 8 and 15, at 1pm ET.

—Beny

On International Women's Day, Friday, March 8, I participated in the Canadians for Israel rally, at Nathan Phillips Square in Toronto. It was heartbreaking to see a re-enactment of the October 7 Hamas kidnapping of women.

I was honoured to lead the singing of the Canadian and Israeli national anthems.

—Beny

On Tuesday, January 23 at 8:00 pm ET, I will be presenting Cantors in Canada: Yesteryears. We will explore the history of Cantors and Cantorial music in Canada, from the beginning of the 20th century, when cantors began to arrive in Winnipeg, Windsor, Montreal, and Toronto. With audio and video clips, we will experience the great voices of the past and the passion of those voices, as they appealed to Jewish communities. Please join me on zoom.

—Beny

I will be participating in this candlelight ceremony, where we will offer prayers for Kfir and his family, all kidnapped by Hamas. This location was chosen to support the Jewish residents of Armour Heights, who have been experiencing repeated hostile protests. Please join me and show your support on January 6, 7pm, at the Bathurst and Wilson Parkette.

—Beny

On Wednesday, December 13, at 8 pm ET, I will present The History of Maoz Tzur. This presentation outlines the origins and historical and musical background of the Hanukkah candle lighting blessings and of the Hebrew hymn Maoz Tzur. Several variations of this hymn throughout the ages will be explored with audio recordings and visual images.

I hope you join me on zoom.

—Beny

On Sunday Nov. 26, I will sing at Grace Christian Life Centre, in support of Israel and the hostages.

—Beny

On Nov. 20, I will sing at a vigil in front of the UNICEF building in Toronto, for the Israeli hostages being held by Hamas.

—Beny

On Nov. 7, 2023, I was featured in a concert honouring the music of my uncle Israel Alter z”l. You can see the video here.

—Beny

The concert was a big success. Click on the picture to see a video clip. Thank you to all who came out.

You may know that I play in a Klezmer band, called Klezconection. We are having a concert on Wednesday, August 9, 2023, at Earl Bales Community Centre. Please come see us at 6:30pm. Doors open at 6 and there is limited seating. But we will be inside. So rain or shine. I hope to see you there.

—Beny