About Leo Dworsky

Music has always been part of my life, especially when I began studying classical voice and Jewish Studies at the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, in the Fall of 2021 (I intended to graduate in the Spring of 2025).

Growing up in a Jewish family, I went to the synagogue almost every Saturday. But, in sixth grade, I attended my first full-length three-hour service in preparation for my Bar Mitzvah. When I entered the sanctuary, I heard the exquisite voice of my cantor singing Haven Yakir Li (My beloved son), a melody that emphasizes the love of people and G-d. While listening, I was so moved by the beauty at that particular moment that I had to brush away tears. Hearing this connection of voice to spiritual conviction inspired me, fueling my inner desire to become a cantor myself one day. Since that day, I have been studying weekly with a cantor to learn Hebrew melodies and services. I now assist the cantor and rabbi during services and teach children to help prepare them for their Bar/Bat Mitzvahs, as well as teach Voice and Piano. This religious aspect of music allows me to express myself and help others find inspiration through the texts. 

Ultimately, my goal is to finish receiving a broad-based liberal arts education at the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, and perhaps pursue a Master's in Sacred Music in Cantorial School, after college, at the Jewish Theological Seminary (JTS), Hebrew Union College (HUC), or another institution that aligns with my Jewish Professional career goals. In Summer 2024, I attended the Nishma Program at JTS, which helped me gain fluency in classical Jewish sources and the life of the Cantorate. Furthermore, I would also like to continue to explore aspects of music performance, such as opera.