Wesson Edutainment
EXPERIENCE MUSIC, LYRICS, AND IDEAS
Programs
In our programs, we seek to educate and entertain through musical performance, commentary on lyrics and texts, and discussion.
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Bob Dylan: Defiant Prophet
The mythic Bob Dylan is considered to be the most important songwriter of the second half of the 20th Century. As a great synthesist, Dylan absorbed the wellspring of world history, art and western religious traditions, pulling from the past and building something new. In addition, he spouts deep wisdom, and a castigation of immorality - both of which stem from his Jewish roots. Truly despite himself, he performs the role of navi, prophet, who is a truth teller, or literally a “proclaimer”. In this live music “edutainment,” program, we will explore how Dylan, though very resistant to the title, is very much in line with the Jewish prophetic tradition. And we will find out how many ears we must have in order to hear his cry.
"Jews and Blues"
It can be easily argued that Early African American music and Eastern European Jewish music form the roots of America’s great songbook.
This is the story of the American 20th century expressed in song. The music tells the social history of both immigrants and freed slaves defining themselves and becoming American. In this live edutainment program we will delve into the music and story of both these peoples and how they are intertwined.
"Chant Down Babylon"
In “Chant Down Babylon- Reggae and Hebrew Scripture”, we will discover the deep historical and spiritual connection between Judaism and Rastafarianism. We will learn why the Rastas consider themselves Black Hebrews, descendants of King Solomon. In addition to studying the words of classic Reggae songs from Bob Marley to The Melodians, we will be sharing live performances of these songs. Lively Up Yourself and join us for a true awakening!
Kabbalat Shabbat
David Wesson and Tyler Burba lead us on a musical journey through the Kabbalat Shabbat service, singing Psalms, prayers, and songs that helped us prepare spiritually for the upcoming Shabbat.
David Wesson is an original musician, educator, and Chaplain from Boston. David has a Masters Degree in Jewish Studies from Hebrew College, and has taught and played music in day schools and synagogues all over Boston and beyond. David currently leads a Jewish reggae band called Shir David, and a blues band in New Orleans.
Tyler Burba is a song-writer living and teaching in New York City. His most recent album "Existential Hymns" was released in 2022 and features original songs dealing with existential and spiritual issues. In addition to his solo work, he has collaborated with David Wesson on many projects over the past twenty years including a blues duo called Rocks & Gravel as well as programs focussed on Judaism. For more information on Tyler's work, visit www.existentialhymns.com
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