Emil often plays solo. But, he can often be found performing with guitarist, Al Bien, Mandolin player, Marty Spiegel, Percussionist, Lazzaro Herrera, drummer Gusten Rudolph, acoustic bass Player, Richard McKenzie, alto, Tiiu Lutter, flutist, Andrea Bruno, and violinist, Ingrid Rosenback. Emil has previously performed with Pete Huttlinger, world-famous fingerstyle guitar champion and former accompanist to John Denver.
Influences
Emil Skobeloff is a native of the Philadelphia area. He received his vocal training from Mary Romig deYoung, who was a mainstay on the faculty at the Philadelphia College of the Performing Arts. Under her direction, he developed his vocal skills, and performed live, and on local television for years. Emil received cantorial training as a protégé to Cantor Sigmund Blass, a Hungarian survivor of the Holocaust. Cantor Blass' passionate style opened the door to emotional and spiritual interpretations of liturgical music. While attending the Beth Jacob Hebrew Day School in Philadelphia, Emil was exposed to Gospel music in South Philadelphia on Sunday mornings, coming to and from choir practice. He was captivated by the passionate, visceral intensity of Gospel music. Combining the fervor of Cantor Blass' lessons and the poignant intensity of Gospel music, Emil began his quest for musical styles and interpretations that expose the core of human passions, experiences and frailties.
"A skilled guitarist with a warm, powerful baritone voice, Skobeloff brings a soulful sound to his songs." "Pain and sorrow seem to emanate from his voice, whether he's singing in Hebrew, Yiddish, Ladino or putting his stamp on a gospel tune. But, so does joy."
"Music is in his heart. And, he sings with his heart."
"Emil sings music that conveys a story about life's travails, and human passions. He says, "I want to touch the souls of the listeners, so they can share my passion and immerse themselves in my music."
His live concerts are exciting, high energy experiences. From beginning to end, audiences are spellbound by his electricity. "He has a rare, spiritual quality. His music isn't just song. It's a connection which rivets listeners."
"Skobeloff is way more than a singer. He's a rare artistic talent who touches you deep inside. It's clear, there is a magic about him that is hard to describe. But, it pulls you in and leaves you wanting more and more."
AND SARAH DANCED is now available for sale on CDBaby.com and has been designated as an Editor's Choice. We are thrilled!!!
Of his new CD, "And Sarah Danced", his singing has been described as:
"warm, rich, sincere and heartbreakingly beautiful"
"a beautiful voice, very sincere and almost haunting at times."
Reviews of the CD:
In two words "It Sparkles!!"
Online Jewish Music Radio, Judith Shira Pinnolis, Editor
“Emil Skobeloff and Or Chadash have released an album of all new tunes to liturgical music called "And Sarah Danced.: The album is thoroughly American in concept, and takes the listener on a walk through fifty-plus years of American popular styles, attached to Jewish liturgical texts. Skobeloff succeeds in creating some good tunes and some are quite catchy. So for those fond of American style music for Jewish worship, check out this album. Several of the successful songs are the "Magen Avot", "Ma Tovu" and "Ashrei".
author: Rivkie Strasberg
Wow! This is beautifully done - the music and songs - everything! I love how each song makes you feel different and that the explanations on the inside cover portray those feelings so well. My kids say it best though. In the words of my four year old, "Mommy, can you always play this CD?" and " Can you play this again and again and again?" Today I just caught my 2 year old singing along with one of the songs...
author: Darcy Cotten
Emil's CD is beautiful, both the lovely packaging, and the wonderful music he brings to us. The cover photograph absoulutely grabs your attention from first glance, and makes you want to know more about the music, as well as the artist. You won't be disappointed with the complete package.
He brings a very special music to the forefront with his beautiful vocals, and equally nice accompaniments, including his own wonderful guitar playing.
In today's world of so much of the "same ole, same ole," Emil cuts thru all of that, and gives us something very special to remember. I loved all of it!
Darcy Cotten, Nashville, TN.
PLEASE CHECK OUT MY FIRST EVER VIDEO ON YOU TUBE AT www.youtube.com/watch?v=ylnLIrTtjnM
"Just a note to let you know how much I appreciate your music in "And Sarah Danced." I have been using it on the air quite often on my daily Jewish music program on WNWR and wnwr. com in Philadelphia, and audience reaction has been excellent. You've created a fresh and dynamic new sound that is musical, spiritual, and very enjoyable. The technical quality, orchestration, selections, and your voice are all first-rate, and your CD makes a wonderful new addition to my playlist.
This is a review from the most famous critic on Jewish music in America. I am so proud.
"Utilizing various American melodic styles, Emil Skobeloff has fashioned a CD of 13 new, delectable melodies, that will speak to 21st century Jews while enhancing their appreciation of the Sabbath liturgy at the same time. It is obvious that Cantor Skobeloff has a talent for melodic writing. I would not be surprised if a number of these songs will become part of a “traditional” Sabbath repertoire. Kudos!"
Velvel Pasternak
Tara Publications
