[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 54 (Tuesday, May 5, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E756]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      TRIBUTE TO CANTOR NATHAN LAM

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. BRAD SHERMAN

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                          Tuesday, May 5, 1998

  Mr. SHERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Cantor 
Nathan Lam for his contribution to the music of Israel.
  Geoffrey Latham once wrote that ``Music is the vernacular of the 
human soul.'' As an internationally renowned musician, Cantor Lam has 
shared his gift of music with individuals across the world. His 
outstanding talent was evident from a young age; by his sixteenth 
birthday he had been engaged by a leading congregation to serve as a 
cantor for the High Holy Days.
  Cantor Lam went on to study privately with several renowned teachers 
in almost every area of vocal music. As the cantor at the prestigious 
Midway Jewish Center in New York City, he began his own commissioning 
program. In 1976, Cantor Lam assumed his post at Stephen S. Wise 
Temple, which is now the largest synagogue in the world. Over the past 
22 years, he has developed numerous musical programs.
  At Stephen S. Wise Temple, Cantor Lam has trained a new generation of 
cantors, sharing with them his love of music and commitment to the 
Jewish community. The temple has established a scholarship in his name, 
enabling these exceptional students to follow in his footsteps. Cantor 
Lam is also a well known voice coach with a national reputation, 
working with some of the biggest names in the music industry today.
  Cantor Lam has performed in concerts across the world, appeared on 
television both nationally and internationally, performed opera and 
sung his vast Jewish repertoire in a multitude of public appearances. 
He has released a number of recordings, including ``Legacy,'' which 
represents a landmark collaboration between the talents of the National 
Symphony of Israel and the kind of Jewish musical innovation 
exemplified by Cantor Lam, and other well known composers. In addition, 
Cantor Lam has been featured in a multitude of articles and television 
shows.
  As we celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Israel, I would like to take 
this opportunity to acknowledge the remarkable accomplishments of 
Cantor Lam, along with his commitment to Jewish life and Israel. Mr. 
Speaker, distinguished colleagues, please join me in honoring one of 
the preeminent musicians of our time, Cantor Nathan Lam.

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