ABSTRACT
The phenomenon of ‘Song Groups’ can be seen as a socio-cultural phenomenon that is characteristic of Israeli society in the 1980s. A retrospective view of Israeli society indicates that this is part of the ‘Community Singing’ movement which since the beginning of the century has been the most distinct characteristic of Israeli society.
According to a study of Song Groups, conducted between 1991 and 1993, a Song Group can be defined as: a group of men and women between the age of 33 and 55 who have similar ethnic backgrounds and mentalities and who are fond of songs; who meet regularly for the study and performance of Hebrew songs with an instructor and musical accompaniment. In 1991 there were over 700 Song Groups of this kind active in Israel taking part in a wide variety of social and cultural activities, and participating successfully in song conferences and international festivals around the world.
