Music is an essential component of virtually all aspects of Jewish life. This course treats the topic of music in Jewish life broadly, surveying religious musical traditions from throughout the diverse Jewish world as well as exploring the role of the Jewish secular professional musician, issues surrounding Israel and Jewish nationalism, the concept of diaspora, and the works of composers dealing with Jewish history, identity, and experiences. This course requires a significant amount of listening to music recordings. In addition, students will engage in seminar discussions based on a wide variety of readings, write concise analytical response papers, attend and analyze religious practices, and take a midterm and final exam.