Cotler to perform in Tempe

Cotler is a Grammy Award-winning performer "blessed with a warm and expressive voice," said Ilene Blau, executive director of the Tri-City Jewish Community Center.

The Tri-City JCC, Temple Beth Sholom and Temple Emanuel are bringing Cotler back to the Valley. He was here earlier this year for a performance at Temple Chai.

Cotler is best-known for his penetrating takes on traditional liturgical songs, as well as for his contemporary compositions about Jewish events and heroes, including "Standing on the Shoulders."

After beginning training at age 9 with his father, a cantor, Cotler began performing professionally in synagogues and Jewish community centers in Southern California at age 14.

He is currently the cantorial soloist at Temple Emanuel, a Reform congregation in Beverly Hills, Calif.

The concert is free and is partially funded by a grant from the Commission on Jewish Continuity and Community of the Jewish Federation of Greater Phoenix.

The performance is not recommended for children younger than kindergarten age. Members of B'nai B'rith Girls, Temple Emanuel Temple Youth and United Synagogue Youth will provide childcare at Temple Emanuel of Tempe, 5801 S. Rural Road - around the corner from Marcos.

Members of the committee planning the event are Blau, Deena Charnofsky, Fonda Christopher, R.J. Davis, Rabbi Bonnie Koppell, Francine Miller, Rabbi David Pinkwasser, Susan Schanerman and Syndi Scheck. Call 897-0588.