Israeli music

Music to our ears, and hearts: How music shaped Israel’s identity over 78 years

The 1967 Six Day War changed everything, as this then-fledgling country, bursting with self-confidence, began to open up to the Western world.

YOAV KUTNER has charted much of the evolution of Israeli music.
SGT. GADI Cotal.

How songs become memory: The role of music on Israel’s Memorial Day

Ittai Binnun plays a large number of wind and other instruments.

Ittai Binnun’s ‘Home’: Jerusalem jazz meets post–Oct 7. reality

Family members and friends attend a funeral service for Israeli singer and composer Mati Caspi, who passed away after a prolonged battle with cancer, in Tel Aviv, February 9, 2026.

Matti Caspi laid to rest as family and artists gather to honor his legacy


Mizrahi pop singer Eden Hason comes out as gay

Hason follows in the footsteps of other LGBTQ+ Israeli icons, indicating a societal shift for Mizrahi music fans.

 Israeli singers Ishay Ribo and Eden Hason at a ceremony marking Remembrance Day for Israel's fallen soldiers and victims of terror, at the Sultan's Pool in Jerusalem, on May 12, 2024.

My Word: In times like these, every song becomes a prayer - opinion

ISRAELI MUSIC is changing, in tune with the times. Elton John sings “Sad songs say so much...” but in Hebrew, sad songs have their own elevated status.

 SOLDIERS DANCE at a concert by singer Idan Raichel at an army base in the South, last month. In these days of trauma and war there may be room for optimism, says the writer.

Dine and show: The festival combining food and music returns

Ever dreamed of enjoying Chef Rafi Cohen's cuisine to the tune of authentic music? The Zappa Group's Chef & Show festival is back with intriguing combinations.

 Chef Raphi Cohen

Sabina's new album explores her Journey in Israel towards gratitude, connection, and belonging

The German-born singer releases her second album in Hebrew, reflecting on Zionism and motherhood in Israel.

"It was important for me to release an album in Hebrew this time because my heart is here," Sabina says.

A dream concert to any Israeli music lover: Caspi, Sanderson, Banai take Jerusalem's stage - review

As the audience sang along to lyrics such as, “Today, finally, I’ll make you smile/Today, I’ll banish the sadness from your eyes,” it was the perfect blending of a joyful sound and sorrowful present.

 THE JERUSALEM ORCHESTRA East West, a multicultural orchestra conducted by maestro Tom Cohen (left), accompanies Danny Sanderson (center) on Thursday night.

Jerusalem highlights June 28 – July 4

Editor’s note: Due to the current security situation, events listed below may be postponed or canceled. Check before booking, and stay safe.

 ‘CHOOSE LIFE.’

A prodigal son returns: Asaf Avidan continues to prove his talent with riveting one-man show

Although he sings in English, Avidan spoke to the packed theater in Hebrew, telling the audience at the outset that he did not consider his music “escapism.”

A view of Asaf Avidan in performance in Israel this week.

Laivy Miller follows in the big footsteps of his father, Matisyahu

“My dad taught that music is giving and that we have to be a vessel if you have it – everything is from Hashem. If God gives you the gift of a voice, it is for a reason.” 

 LAIVY MILLER sings with his father, Matisyahu, in Israel.

Israeli singer, composer, and actor, Dan Toren, dies at 63

Toren was awarded an honorary songwriting award from Israel’s music and literary rights association, ACUM. 

Israeli actor, singer, and composer, Dan Toren, 2012.

The Terminal performance complex in Haifa is set to redefine entertainment in the north

The Terminal is housed in the historic Hangar 15, a 1950s structure that has served various port needs over the years. The venue can accommodate up to 2,000 people per event.

 Ravid Plotnik