programs
Shalom Summer
Sunday, June 22, 2025
Shalom Summer
UPDATE JUNE 22: The location for the event has been changed due to a weather related power outage on our campus. A new location has been emailed to all registrants. Registration is now closed. Thank you for your understanding and we apologize for any inconvenience!
Sunday, June 22 | Jam: 3:00-3:45 Concert: 4:00-5:30pm (rain or shine)
$36 Suggested Donation
Get ready for an unforgettable celebration! Registration is open for our third annual Shalom Summer extravaganza! We’re thrilled to invite you to another fantastic gathering filled with music, community, and gratitude.
Please note new event details
This event will be moved inside to the Perelman Jewish Day School auditorium, still located on our campus.
Event Details
Location: Perelman Auditorium, 49 Haverford Rd. in Wynnewood, PA
Time: 3:00–5:30 PM (Jam session from 3 to 3:45, concert from 4 to 5:30)
Food
We will have complimentary pretzels and water
We will no longer be able to serve other food, and we ask that you please limit outside food and snacks
Registration and Security – Registration is now closed
If you are already registered:
Please bring a photo ID
Bags and instruments will be subject to search
Prepare to be captivated by Klezmer tunes of Hankus Netsky and the Klezmer All Stars, as they lead an open jam for all participants followed by a concert from the All Stars themselves.
Meet the Band:
Hankus Netsky – Director, Piano, Accordion, and Saxophone
A multi-instrumentalist, composer, and ethnomusicologist, Hankus Netsky is co-chair of the Contemporary Musical Arts Department at New England Conservatory and founder and director of the internationally renowned Klezmer Conservatory Band. He has composed extensively for film, theater, and television and collaborated with artists such as Itzhak Perlman, Robin Williams, Joel Grey, Theodore Bikel, and Robert Brustein.
Grant Smith – Drums and Percussion
Grant Smith is involved in world music, jazz, classical, and dance projects in Boston and New York. His theater credits include the American Repertory’s The King Stag and Shlemiel The First, as well as Joel Grey’s Borscht Capades. He has performed with Itzhak Perlman, Yo-Yo Ma, Don Byron, the Violent Femmes, Garrison Keillor, and Jane Wang.
Eden MacAdam-Somer – Violin and Vocalist
A world-renowned violist, fiddler, vocalist, percussive dancer, and educator, Eden MacAdam-Somer is currently Co-Chair of the Contemporary Musical Arts Department at the New England Conservatory. She is also the lead vocalist with the Klezmer Conservatory Band.
Itay Dayan – Clarinet
Israeli clarinetist and composer Itay Dayan, based in Boston, is considered one of the most promising voices in klezmer music today. Renowned for his virtuosic playing and genre-defying creativity, he blends klezmer, jazz, and classical influences to craft a sound that honors tradition while pushing musical boundaries.
Susan Hoffman Watts – Trumpet
Susan Hoffman Watts is the sole living purveyor of her family’s traditional klezmer-style trumpet sounds, which have electrified audiences for decades. She has recorded, performed, and sung with The Klezmatics, So-Called, Claire Barry, Mandy Patinkin, Dudu Fischer, Mikveh, Shtreimel, The Klez Dispensers, and has performed with her mother, the great klezmer drummer Elaine Hoffman Watts, in their Philadelphia-based group, the Fabulous Shpielkehs.
Steve Beskrone – Bass
Acoustic/electric bassist Steve Beskrone is known for his versatility, which has led him to work in a variety of professional and creative settings. He has recorded and performed with many legendary artists, contributing to a wide range of musical genres.
Dan Blacksberg – Trombone
Dan Blacksberg is a master of klezmer trombone, known for his ability to push the boundaries of tradition through performance, composition, and improvisation. He blends genres, creating innovative new pathways between klezmer and contemporary music. As a teacher and community music leader, he empowers musicians of all ages to become joyful and creative artists.
This year we honoring 5 pillars of our community who exemplify our organizational value of Hospitality (Hachnasat Orchim).
Read below to learn more about the honorees:
Adi Ozery
The JCC has been a true home for Adi and her family since they were welcomed with open arms five years ago. Two of their three children were educated here, and they cherish celebrating holidays and participating in community events. The JCC’s commitment to hospitality, especially during COVID, has created a strong sense of belonging for both new and longtime members. Adi is excited to see the JCC continue to grow as a vibrant, welcoming space for families from all backgrounds, with new programs and deeper community connections.
Amit Starfield
Amit’s relationship with the JCC began in 2019 when she sought a warm and nurturing environment for her toddler son, Eli. The JCC became a “home away from home” for her family, especially after returning post-COVID and feeling embraced by the community. As a PTO member and President, Amit has worked closely with families, teachers, and staff to foster a strong sense of community. The JCC is not just a school for her children; it’s a second home where they learn, grow, and build friendships, and where parents find connection, support, and friendship. Hospitality at the JCC means being truly welcomed and embraced, creating a space where everyone feels included and supported. Amit is excited about the JCC’s continued growth, expanding programming, and fostering new traditions, ensuring that families continue to build lifelong memories and connections.
Lily Brownstein
Lily’s relationship with the JCC began in 2023 when she joined Team Philadelphia for the JCC Maccabi Games in Israel. Through practices, meeting teammates, and JCC Maccabi social media content, she became deeply involved. After the games, she was offered an internship, where she has assisted with social media, volunteered at events, and helped recruit athletes. JCC Kaiserman has strengthened Lily’s Jewish identity and confidence in her faith, providing a welcoming community to explore Jewish culture. Hospitality at the JCC means creating an inclusive space where everyone feels a sense of belonging, supported by friendships and shared experiences. Lily is excited to see the JCC expand its programs, grow the JCC Maccabi Games, and strengthen community engagement, inspiring Jewish youth and fostering connections.
Marjorie Surden
After the passing of her husband, Marjorie found solace at Gems at the JCC activities. The fun and educational classes, excellent presenters, and friendly participants provided her with a warm, caring community. The JCC staff have been incredibly supportive, offering resources and education to help seniors navigate life experiences. Marjorie is impressed by the nurturing and hospitable environment the JCC provides. Catering to all ages, the JCC offers excellent programs and activities, and Marjorie is excited about its future growth. She believes the JCC will continue to provide more for the community, from sports and fitness classes to concerts and stimulating educational opportunities. The Gems program has been the answer Marjorie needed, and she loves being part of the JCC.
Nina Grossberg
JCCs have been a key part of Nina’s life at every age and stage, from attending preschool, day camp, and swim team at the Allentown JCC, to sending her children to JCC preschools in MD, Pittsburgh, and here, and attending events like Fall Fest. When her family moved here in 2020, Nina wanted to help build the JCC community she was looking to be a part of. Hospitality at the JCC means a home away from home, providing a safe and comfortable place to connect, learn, grow, and have fun. Nina looks forward to seeing friendly faces of staff and community members whenever they walk through the doors. As her family grows into a new stage, Nina is excited to engage in different programming and experiences, creating memories at the JCC through activities like the upcoming Maccabi games, pickleball, and Israeli dancing.
