In addition to its one-off programs at JCCs, synagogues, concert venues, and festivals, Trio Sefardi’s weekend synagogue residencies (shabbatons) are becoming increasingly popular, as seen in this photo from the Trio presenting “The Key from Spain” to Hebrew school students at Kol Shalom Synagogue in Rockville, Maryland in November 2025.
SCHEDULE
A typical residency includes playing in Shabbat services (Friday evening or Saturday morning—or both!), drawing from a wide range of Sefardi piyyutim from Balkan, Turkish, and North African traditions; a Saturday evening post-Havdalah concert; and a Sunday morning program for Hebrew school students that draws on Debbie Levy’s children’s book about Flory Jagoda, The Key from Spain, or an educational program/discussion with adult members. Alternatively, on Saturday evening or Sunday, the trio can present its multi-media program, “La Nona Kanta: The Remarkable Life of Flory Jagoda.”
Shabbatons with the trio have been presented through the auspices of the Jewish Federation of El Paso and Las Cruces; B’nai Keshet in Montclair, NJ; Kol Shalom, Rockville, MD; and a coalition of synagogues on the east coast of Florida. In 2026, residencies are planned for Congregation Knesset Israel, Pittsfield, MA, and Temple Isaiah, Fulton, MD.
“What stood out to me most about the trio’s weekend in El Paso and Las Cruces was not only their exceptional musicianship, but the heart and intention they bring to every song. Trio Sefardi creates an intimate and immersive experience that connects history, culture, and emotion in a powerful way. Hiring them is more than booking a performance—it is offering an unforgettable weekend journey into the living music of Sefarad.”
–Blanc Carrasco, Past President, Anusim Center and Synagogue, Sunland Park, NM
“Our Talmud Torah students enjoyed the interactive story, mixed with live music. In addition, it was such a treat for our congregants and others in the community to enjoy a delightful concert on Saturday night. The musicians in the Trio are skilled at their craft, and their varied repertoire is uplifting, melodious, and nostalgic.”
—Cantor Sally Heckelman, Kol Shalom Synagogue, Rockville, Maryland
“It was a very fulfilling weekend in which different audiences experienced unique and beautiful music. Audience members remarked upon how much they learned. Some wept, recalling tunes they remembered from their grandparents’ homes. I highly recommend working with them.”
–Marla Cohen, Executive Director (retired), Jewish Federation of El Paso and Las Cruces
“Their harmonious musical instruments, engaging lectures and stories, and beautiful melodies
make Trio Sefardi a ‘must have’ for any organization that wants to learn about and enjoy Sephardic music and
culture.”
–Betty Jagoda Murphy, President, B’nai Keshet, past president and sponsor
“We had a wonderful, wonderful community experience Friday night, as part of your weekend
visit to El Paso and Las Cruces (NM). I am so thankful to you for facilitating and enabling such a lovely evening!”
–Rabbi Ben Zeidman, Temple Mt. Sinai, El Paso, Texas
