Yakov yavno biography of nancy

1. Soviet singer and actor
2. Meeting in New York
3. The Road Home
4. A Journey of Challenges
5. From Cantorial School to a Different Path
6. Preserving Yiddish Culture
7. Audience and Support
8. The Future

Soviet singer and actor

Yakov Yavno is a Soviet singer and actor who has gained popularity in New York. He is known for his vibrant performances and energetic stage presence. For many years, Yavno has captivated audiences with his music, which transcends language barriers and resonates with people of all nationalities.

Meeting in New York

Yakov Yavno and I met in New York City as planned, near the Union Square subway station. I immediately recognized him from his distinct appearance - short in stature, bald with a beard and glasses, wearing a long-sleeved denim jacket and black trousers. Little did I know at the time that Yavno had been the lead artist and undisputed leader of the Chamber Jewish Music Theater for thirteen years. It was during their tour in Kishinev that I had first seen him in my previous life.

The Road Home

Yakov Yavno currently resides in New York and has gained significant popularity. However, until recently, he was relatively unknown in Israel. It was his solo program, "The Road Home," that made him famous in the country. Yavno spent a day with me, discussing topics such as immigration, creativity, the American and Israeli audiences, and the media. I couldn't have asked for a better companion, conversationalist, and tour guide. He showed me his New York, his Greenwich Village, the bohemian neighborhood where he lives.

A Journey of Challenges

Yavno's journey has not been without its challenges. When his mother was attacked and her legs were broken, he had to make a difficult choice between his career and taking care of her. He chose his mother, which led him to a difficult situation where he found himself in a Russian ghetto with no support or understanding. Realizing the need to escape this environment, he enrolled in the Jewish seminary at Columbia University, where he found solace in the shared language and traditions of the Jewish community.

From Cantorial School to a Different Path

After four years in the cantorial school, Yavno realized that he couldn't become a cantor. He felt like a stranger in the synagogue and decided to pursue a different path. It was during this time that he met Irene, who supported him in his search for a new direction. This led him to Claire Barry, one of the legendary Barry Sisters, with whom he performed for four years. Yavno found his calling in singing Yiddish songs, which he believes have a unique charm and appeal.

Preserving Yiddish Culture

Yavno's passion for Yiddish songs stems from the belief that there is something more than just words in music - a vibration, energy, mood, and dynamics that can captivate people of any nationality. He sees himself as a representative of a culture that is gradually fading away and aims to preserve it through his performances. Despite the challenges and the diminishing interest among the younger generation, Yavno believes that Yiddish songs can be part of global culture and transcend cultural boundaries.

Audience and Support

Yavno's performances in Israel primarily attracted repatriates from the former Soviet Union, but he believes that his music can resonate with a broader audience, including those from Yemen, Morocco, Iraq, and other countries. He admires the Israeli audience for their beauty, pride, and freedom, and he is grateful for their unwavering support. However, he also acknowledges the lack of financial support for his art, noting that it is easier to find funding for other cultural endeavors than for Yiddish music.

The Future

Yavno's future plans include televised performances on NTV, as well as recordings of his concerts in Moscow at the Moscow Art Theatre and the Russian Concert Hall. He also plans to participate in the Mikhail Festival. Despite the challenges and the changing landscape of Yiddish culture, Yavno remains dedicated to his art and committed to preserving the rich heritage of Yiddish music.