The WFMT Radio Network debuts "The Art of the Cantor" New 8-part series, hosted by Cantor Alberto Mizrahi, premieres Sunday, May 10 at 4:00 p.m. on 98.7WFMT.
The WFMT Radio Network is pleased to announce the premiere of a new 8-hour series, The Art of the Cantor, featuring the music of some of the greatest cantors of the 20th century, including the voices of Richard Tucker, Gershon Sirota, Yossele Rosenblatt, Moyshe Oysher, Jan Peerce, The Koussevitzky brothers, and many more.

The first episode airs on 98.7WFMT on Sunday, May 10 at 4:00 p.m., which will be its regular timeslot. The series was offered free of charge to other classical radio outlets via the WFMT Radio Network, and so far, 40 stations nationwide will be airing the series.

Hosted by internationally known Hazzan Alberto Mizrahi, Cantor of Chicago’s Anshe Emet Synagogue, The Art of the Cantor provides historical background and personal insight into the lives and voices of these very special spiritual and musical leaders. Comprised of 8 one-hour episodes, each program focuses on a different musical theme, including Great Cantors of the Golden Age, Operatic Cantors and Cantors in Opera, Cantors in Concert and Cantors After the Golden Age.
The schedule is as follows:
Program one (05/10/09): Greatest Cantors of the 20th Century, part 1
Program two (05/17/09): Greatest Cantors of the 20th Century, part 2
Program three (05/24/09): Greatest Cantors of the 20th Century, part 3
Program four (05/31/09): Operatic Cantors and Cantors in Opera
Program five (06/07/09): The Cantor in America
Program six (06/14/09): Cantors in Concert
Program seven (06/21/09): The Western European Tradition
Program eight (06/28/09): Cantors After the Golden Age

The Art of the Cantor was written and hosted by Hazzan Alberto Mizrahi at the WFMT studios in Chicago. The programs were produced by Beth Schenker, and edited and mixed by Beth Schenker and Allison Schein. Barry Serota was musical advisor, and Allison Schein was series engineer. Series concept, direction, and initial underwriting by Ricardo Rosenkranz for Opus Magica Music, LLC. The production of this series was made possible by a gift in memory of Cantor Martin Baum of Chicago.

About 98.7WFMT
98.7WFMT, Chicago’s Classical Experience, provides the best and broadest selection of classical music and fine arts programming in the country. A broadcasting force for more than 55 years, the station’s appeal continues to widen. 98.7WFMT is currently serving the largest audience in the station’s history. More information about 98.7WFMT is available at
98.7WFMT

TELL YOUR FRIENDS! A PBS HANUKKAH SPECIAL will be broadcast beginning Tuesday, December 2nd, 2008. Alberto is featured on the show alongside Craig Taubman, Josh Nelson, the Klezmatics and many others. Check out the link below for more information and a promotional video:
LIGHTS: Celebrate Hanukkah Live in Concert

New Israelistisch Weekblad, December 9, 2005 - Cantorial song is pure emotion De Volkskrant, December 13, 2005 Chazan-song and tickling “blue notes” NRC Handelsblad, December 12, 2005 Alberto Mizrahi on Cantor music By Mischa Spel NRC Handelsblad, December 13, 2005: REVIEW - Captivating song of “Jewish Pavarotti” A Cantor's 10 Days of Awe - Read the wonderful Sun-Times article (PDF) “Mizrahi was charismatic and fearless, unabashedly emotional… the tone full and golden…he held you spellbound…riding the notes with the Jewish Pavarotti (London Times) Click to read the full review! “ The soaring operatic tenor voice of alberto Mizrahi thrilled the audience with his atmospheric account…..” (Jewish Renaissance: London) " A phenomenal solo voice...He hits ear-stinging B-flats and C's...conveys power and fervor as few other singers do...Mizrahi dominated the evening. (Chicago Tribune) “ His voice is rich, vibrant, powerful... a striking performer...” (Boston Globe) “ Mizrahi’s mighty voice cut through the hall like a knife. A wondrous voice...” (Yedi’ot Acharonot) ... the entire show is stolen by the glorious, clarion-like voice of cantor Alberto Mizrahi. The sound is spacious but never unwieldy. BBC Music Magazine Click to read the full review!