Abbie Silber, 28, Cedar Rapids, IA
Indiana University, English Education, Music, Masters of Education.
Track: Jerusalem Arts WUJS Arts
Living in Jerusalem is such an incredible experience. The WUJS housing is in the most amazing Baka area. The location makes enjoying the city exciting and pleasant. I enjoy running to the old city a few miles away and walking around the area with friends. WUJS makes living in Jerusalem feel like home.
My inspiration comes from Judaism and my spirituality. I also take a lot from the singer-songwriter mentors in my life. My favorite activity so far has been doing the weekly open mic nights. The support from my friends in Israel and the challenge of learning new songs each week, is definitely a highlight of my time here so far.
Abbie's website: www.abbiesilber.com
Abbie's MP3 Download: http://abbiesilber.com/Download.aspx-
Abbie's videos: http://www.youtube.com/user/silberette
What were you doing before you came here?
I was a teacher in the Rockwood School District in St. Louis, MO and the Music Director with the United Hebrew Congregation.
How did you hear about this WUJS Israel program?
I was looking into programs after visiting December '08. I was drawn to Jerusalem and really wanted to find a good program that could help me return. I was looking for a program where I could explore my music. This was the only program that had an Arts track WUJS was the best fit. Find out more @ Masa: WUJS Arts Program
What are your goals for this WUJS arts program?
I hope to learn hebrew, experience the holidays in Israel, meet great friends, and have an opportunity to work on my music.
What art projects do you plan to complete while on this program?
I plan to create my own music and explore learning covers to perform weekly. I play at an open mic every week and will play a show in the winter with all music I have created and learned.
What do you plan to show at your gallery?
I plan to perform an original piece in hebrew.
What opportunities are taking advantage of while on the Arts program in Jerusalem?
I perform at an open mic every Tuesday night and plan to schedule a show there in the next few months. I am also taking Torah classes, art classes, and hebrew classes. They are all important for enriching my learning while living in Israel.
What do you hope to get out of this Israel arts program?
I hope to create my own music, perform in many new environments, and gain inspiration as an educator and Jewish musician. I also hope to find myself better as a Jewish Musician and use the inspiration from Israel and my classes in my music.
What did your friends say when you told them about your plan to come to Israel?
Many thought I was crazy, but the important people were supportive and knew it was something I had to do.
