Tracks
Liner Notes
This is a setting of a well-known Hebrew song by Matityahu Weiner (words and music), which, like so many other songs of the early idealistic adherents of the Zionist movement who came to Palestine to settle in and rebuild the land, has achieved folksong status. This arrangement was done for the Pacific Symphonetta and Chorus at the invitation of dancer Corrine Chochem for her album Four Horah Dances (Alco Records) and was conducted by film composer Victor Young. The original 78-rpm recording also included settings by Jewish composers Milhaud, Diamond, and Toch. The piano-choral transcription from that recording was realized in 1954. The sheet music indicates that this was accomplished by R.K., the initials of Reuven Kosakoff (1898–1987), a composer devoted to Jewish-related works. No original score survives.
Lyrics
Sung in Hebrew
Melody and words: Matityahu Shelem (Weiner)
Let us celebrate and throw off our burden!
It’s a joyous holiday for us; a great day for us.
We have created something out of nothing
With the hand that sows and plows.
Flint rocks and stones flow with
abundant waters;
Strength, might, and courage.
Awake, awaken and be revived among
the sickle bearers!
Persist in work and toil;
The strength of our spirit should not fall,
Awaken, awake!
Credits
Composer: Leonard BernsteinPerformers: Samuel Adler, Conductor; Jean Barr, Piano; Rochester Singers
Publisher: Universal Polygram International Publishing
Translation: Eliyahu Mishulovin
