Summer Greenwald-Gonella is currently enjoying her 3rd year as the Cantor of Temple Beth Shalom in Manalapan, NJ. She graduated from the Jewish Theological Seminary in May of 2017; there, she pursued a Master of Sacred Music, while concurrently earning a Master's degree in Jewish Education through its Davidson School. The summer before graduation, Summer completed a 12-week chaplaincy internship and found this to be one of the most rewarding parts of her training. Summer earned her Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance from California State University, Northridge and graduated cum laude in 2010. She is a member of the National Society of Collegiate Scholars, National Society of Leadership and Success, and Golden Key Society.
Summer is from sunny Modesto, California, where she grew up attending Congregation Beth Shalom, a conservative shul, with her family; there she studied, led Shabbat services and tutored b’nei mitzvah students. She loves working with children and inspiring in them a connection to Judaism through music. She very much continues to value her 3 year (2014-2017) cantorial internship at Temple Beth Rishon in Wyckoff, New Jersey. She truly relished the opportunity to be mentored by, and to work with, Cantor Ilan Mamber z’’l and to serve the TBR community. In true “summer” fashion, Summer loves the beach, sun, and shopping. She is currently engaged to Aaron Sunshine and can’t wait to become Cantor Summer Sunshine.
MISSION STATEMENT
As a cantor, I strive to inspire, encourage, educate and uplift. Through music, I hope to inspire in both children and adults a close relationship to Judaism and one another and provide a joyous and meaningful connection to our faith. Through creative engagement in the classroom and outside of it, I hope to encourage life-long learning on many planes and a deep commitment to Jewish values and practices. By modeling kindness and compassion, a love of learning and a personal connection to our rich tradition, I hope to instill in others the awe, joy and passion I feel in my own soul.