Cantor Rita Glassman grew up in Mamaroneck, New York where she attended the Westchester Day School and Mamaroneck High School. Cantor Rita was ordained by the Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion in New York and is a Board Certified Chaplain through the National Association of Professional Chaplains. Cantor Rita is a knowledgeable teacher of Torah and brings a depth of spirituality, insight, and wisdom to all of her Cantorial Endeavors.
Cantor Rita is also a composer with a particular interest in music and prayer that lifts the heart, builds community, and brings joy, healing, and a feeling of deep spiritual connection to all. She is a long-time member of the Helfman Composers Group based in Los Angeles, writing new music for the synagogue. Her music for both children and adults has been published in several URJ anthologies. In her Cantorial role, Cantor Rita has served Congregation Sherith Israel in San Francisco, and most recently Philadelphia’s Reform Congregation Rodeph Shalom. In addition, Cantor Rita has produced and recorded six CDs (www.RitaGlassman.com).
With her interest in interfaith connection, Cantor Rita was honored to have her original “Song For Peace/Oseh Shalom” performed at the White House for President and Michelle Obama at an interfaith holiday gathering in 2015. She has sung the National Anthem at a San Francisco Giants’ game and at two Golden State Warriors’ games on their Jewish Heritage Nights.
As an experienced Chaplain/Pastoral Caregiver, Cantor Rita brings to her Cantorial role at Temple Israel of New Rochelle a caring, supportive, and compassionate presence for anyone who may be going through any of life’s transitions. She deeply appreciates and embraces diversity. Cantor Rita believes in the notion that “we are all one and responsible to one another,” and that every person who enters a synagogue is welcome “at the table,” has a voice, and is essential to the life and well being of the congregation. Cantor Rita is the proud mother of a daughter, Rebecca Shira, who lives in Manhattan and is happy to have her mom “back in the neighborhood” – as is her mom.
You can contact Cantor Rita at CantorRitaGlassman@tinr.org
Click here for Rabbi Jesse and Cantor Rita’s first service together
Click here for Cantor Rita’s first sermon (pdf)
