Temple Concord and Temple Israel invite the community to join them for a Selichot concert featuring Dan Nichols on Saturday, September 12, at 8:30 pm. “A number of congregations have joined together to bring about this concert for Selichot as we move closer to Rosh Hashanah and all the holidays we observe and celebrate in Tishrei,” said organizers of the event. Anyone interested should contact Temple Concord (templeconcordaa@gmail.com or 723-7355) or Temple Israel (titammy2stny.twcbc.com or 723-7461) for the Zoom information for the program.

“Dan Nichols is a singular talent in the world of Jewish music,” said organizers of the event. “He is one of the most dynamic, influential and beloved Jewish musicians in North America. Dan’s melodies have become an integral part of the spiritual and liturgical experience of countless individuals and Jewish communities.”

Nichols is a product of the Jewish camping movement. He spent 10 summers at the Goldman Union Camp in Zionsville, IN, before receiving his degree in vocal performance at the University of North Carolina. In 1995, realizing the potential of music to make a “meaningful connection” with Jewish youth, Nichols established the Jewish rock band Eighteen. Since that time, he and Eighteen have released 11 full-length studio albums. “Each one has received critical acclaim and has been celebrated by Jewish adults and youth alike,” organizers added.

“Dan’s anthology includes a wide range of sounds and styles, from energetic Jewish rock anthems to moving interpretations of traditional Jewish liturgy. Jewish youth and adults from around the world draw inspiration from Dan’s music and its positive message of Jewish values, identity and pride,” they said. “Dan’s live performances are legendary for their unrestrained energy and infectious spirit.”

Nichols’ studio concerts during the pandemic have continued his impact. His URJ “Campfire on Tour” concert in late June was the impetus for the program. Rabbi Steve Weisman reached out to him to put together an online Selichot musical and storytelling program.

Nichols has been featured at the conferences and conventions of nearly every major Jewish movement, including the URJ Biennial, NFTY Convention, BBYO International and Limmud. In addition to his musical talents, Nichols has been called a gifted teacher.