The Golden Voice of Israeli Singer Etti Ankri

While most people in the room could not understand a word Etti Ankri said, once each song began, the music took on a meaning all its own. Famed Israeli singer/songwriter Etti Ankri performed last night inside the gorgeous sanctuary of the 6th and I Synagogue, where the acoustics were pristine, allowing her pure voice to soar through the air.

Performing spiritual and ethnic music from her Israeli homeland, Ankri sang in Hebrew and performed one song in Arabic, showing off her Tunisian heritage. She introduced most songs, sometimes with anecdotes, mostly in Hebrew and struggled some trying to provide English translation in parts. Some song were accompanied by English translations of the lyrics on a projection screen.

My friend seated next to me leaned over a couple of times to say Ankri was requesting the audience sing along but most didn't understand so few complied, except for one song in which she got the crowd to “la la la la” with her. The audience did often clap along during the chorus and she received a standing ovation after the show.

On this night, the gorgeous music superseded any language barriers as we were treated to one of the most glorious female voices I’ve ever heard.

As Israeli Independence Day approaches, I say with pride and love:
Happy 60th birthday, Israel.