Mikhtam le-David

An Early Twentieth-Century Sephardi Troubadour: The Historical Recordings of Haim Effendi of Turkey
An Early Twentieth-Century Sephardi Troubadour: The Historical Recordings of Haim Effendi of Turkey
Mikhtam le-David

Haim Effendi


A rendition of Psalm 16 (vv. 1-2, half of v. 4, vv. 8-10) that is recited in Eastern Sephardi synagogues late Sabbath afternoon, right before the ending of the Sabbath. This very special melody expresses sadness for the approaching end of the holy day of rest. The partial recording of the Psalm text may derive, besides the constraints of recording time, from the traditional responsorial or antiphonal performance of this piece in the synagogue, where a soloist or a group of soloists alternated with the congregation.

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