Born in Brooklyn, New York. Was a Music researcher who specialized in Jewish music. Her research included the compilation of a large collection of Yiddish theater music. She published many articles and books concerning secular and sacred Jewish music. Among her books are Studies in Jewish Music, Jews in Music, The Resource Book of Jewish Music, Yiddish-American Popular Songs, 1895–1950, and Passport to Jewish Music: Its History, Traditions, and Culture.
Sources: Encyclopedia Judaica; Kozinn, Allan. 'Irene Heskes, 76, a Historian Of Music in the Yiddish Theater.' New York Times 19 Oct. 1999.; 'Irene Heskes.' Jewish Women's Archive.
