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Chapter 8 Thought Questions

  1. In your own opinion, why did the post of chazzan become important? 
  2. How have the functions of the cantor’s job changed over time?
  3. Select three chazzanim from the 18th and 19th centuries that you feel played a significant role in the history of Cantorial music.  For each, discuss the contributions that made you choose that person.
  4. What problems dogged the American cantorate in the 18th and 19th centuries? How were those problems resolved?
  5. How does the type of music being written for synagogue services today differ from that written by the cantors of the 18th and 19th centuries?  Why do you think that is so?