Singing together enhances a connection to Judaism, deepening the spiritual experience while singing in harmony. HaShirim’s primary mission is community outreach, bringing Jewish music to senior facilities, where residents might not otherwise have a chance to hear this music as well as participate. Reaching out also brings pleasure to the singers, who improve their vocal techniques while learning new music and new harmonies.

Repertoire ranges from folk to Broadway to contemporary liturgical music, sung in Hebrew, Yiddish, English and Ladino. Begun in 2003, HaShirim numbers about 30 singers of all ages from San Francisco to San Jose. The director, Billie Bandermann, teaches singing at De Anza College. No auditions required. Meeting Mondays from 7 to 8:30 p.m., in person and with Zoom option. Check website for updates.