Rabbi Michael Birnholz and the Board of Directors of Temple Beth Shalom are pleased to announce that Kelly Onickel has joined Temple Beth Shalom as the congregation’s new Cantorial Soloist.
Cantorial Soloist Onickel was born and raised in Michigan enjoying multiple musical experiences in theatrical productions before moving on to her higher education. She received a BA in Music and Judaic Studies from Oakland University, a Masters in Judaic Studies from the University of Michigan, a Certificate in Hebrew Studies from Hebrew University of Jerusalem and forthcoming ordination from The Academy for Jewish Religion Seminary. She also had the opportunity to study with Opera and Jazz professionals as well as with several Conductors.
Cantorial Soloist Onickel was previously the Cantorial Soloist at Temple Emanu-El of Oak Park, MI for the past eleven years. During her tenure she had the pleasure to serve as a Board Member and Communication and Publicity VP for the Guild of Temple Musicians for eight years, and was on The Michigan Board of Cantors as a Board Member and Secretary for ten years. These groups are committed to expanding the knowledge of Jewish music and education in local communities and worldwide, certain to be a positive attribute for the Cantor’s associations in Vero Beach.
Cantorial Soloist Onickel converted to Judaism in 1987 following years of researching and studying with Rabbis and Cantors. According to Rabbi Birnholz, “We are excited to have Cantorial Soloist Onickel joining the Temple Beth Shalom family. We consider her religious background helpful to our interfaith congregants who are bringing up their children in Judaism. She will bring her musical spirit and wide spectrum of religious knowledge to enhance our celebrations for the Sabbath and Holidays. She will also coordinate and lead an exciting array of Jewish learning opportunities, cultural programs and important interfaith/outreach experiences.”
Cantorial Soloist Onickel has moved to Vero Beach with her husband Harry and they have two grown children, son Kein and a daughter Sierra. She is currently practicing her duties at Temple Beth Shalom on Friday evening Sabbath services and will be introduced to the community at wide during this year’s High Holy Day services for Rosh Hashanah beginning on September 16-18 followed by Yom Kippur Services, September 24 and 25. Temple Beth Shalom is located at 365 43rd Avenue in Vero Beach (on the southwest corner of 43rd Avenue and 4th Street), in Vero Beach. For more information, contact the Temple office at 772-569-4700 or email Cantor@TBSVero.org.