Keeping Their Voices Alive Through Yiddish Songs with Alejandra Czarny

This three-course experience explores the role of music during the Holocaust, focusing on songs created and sung in ghettos, concentration camps, and by Survivors. We will analyze lyrics, discuss historical contexts, and reflect on the resilience and humanity preserved through music.

The goals of this course is to understand the historical and cultural significance of songs during the Holocaust, analyze the lyrics and contexts of selected songs to gain insights into the lived experiences of those who endured the Holocaust, explore how music served as a form of resistance, documentation, and solace, and foster a deeper appreciation for the intersection of history, art, and human expression.

A native of Argentina and longtime South Florida resident for 23 years, Alejandra Czarny has devoted much of her life to singing and playing Yiddish songs. With her guitar and in collaboration with outstanding musicians, she brings to life a wide-ranging repertoire that resonates across cultures and generations. Her performances have taken her to festivals, concerts, and private events throughout Europe, North America, and South America.

She has released two albums of Yiddish music — Songs about Songs and Under the White Stars — and is currently working on Dorem, an upcoming recording featuring her own original compositions. Beyond the stage, Alejandra draws on her training as a music therapist to lead singing groups, extending the healing power of music into community spaces.

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Host or Publisher Holocaust Documentation and Education Center