Shai Abramson
Modi’in | IDF Chief Cantor
Lieutenant Colonel (Res.) Shai Abramson is a musician, singer, cantor, and producer, as well as the artistic director and commander of the Rabbinical Choir of the Israel Defense Forces. In his capacity as Chief Cantor of the IDF, he represents the Israeli army, the Ministry of Defense, and the State of Israel at official ceremonies and state events, both in Israel and abroad. Shay initiates, produces, and promotes concerts and performances of classical, Israeli, Eastern, and Western music and song, as well as performances of cantorial singing, and world music. He has performed as a singer and soloist in Israel and abroad, accompanied by leading orchestras, choirs, and musical ensembles that include the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra, the Jerusalem Symphony Orchestra, the Israel Symphony Orchestra Rishon LeZion, and the Sydney Symphony Orchestra. Shai holds a bachelor’s degree in logistics and economics, and a master’s degree in political science from Bar-Ilan University. He is married and a father of four.*This biography was last updated at the start of the program