LRCD1011
- How Excellent is Thy Name
HAZZAN
ERIK L. F. CONTZIUS was born and raised in Parsippany, New Jersey. He took
an interest in Jewish music early in life, being inspired by both his
grandfather, Joseph Contzius (of blessed memory) and Rabbi Daniel Franzel.
He
received his bachelor’s degree from Rutgers University, New Brunswick,
New Jersey and is a proud alumnus of the Rutgers University Glee Club.
While studying abroad in York, England, Hazzan Contzius performed
extensively in oratorios and musical productions, including playing the
Pirate King in Gilbert & Sullivan’s Pirates of Penzance. From
Rutgers, Hazzan Contzius continued his studies by attending the Hebrew
Union College - Jewish Institute
of Religion, School of Sacred Music. There he studied with such Hazzanim
as Faith Steinsnyder Gurney, Martha Novick, and Jacob Mendelson, whose
coaching styles he greatly admires. While attending the college, Hazzan
Contzius studied voice with Tom Lomonaco, to whom he owes much of his
vocal technique.
Hazzan
Contzius appears on the recent compact disc recording “Celebrate
Hanukkahh”, as guest cantor with the Westminster Youth Chorale of Rider
College, and Yamim Noraim - Days of Awe, (conducted by Dr. Samuel Adler
avaliable through Transcontinental Music Publications).
Hazzan
Contzius presently serves as cantor and music director of Congregation
Keneseth Israel in Elkins Park, Pennsylvania. He previously served as
cantor at Temple Israel of Omaha, Nebraska from 1995-1998.
He also sits on the board of the American Conference of Cantors and
edits their monthly newsletter, Koleinu.
In
1998 Hazzan Contzius was invited along with Ms. Marshall to perform in the
International Organ Festival of Göteborg, Sweden.
