is a Yiddish scholar, teacher, and singer. Originally from Moscow, he spent years in the US and now lives in the UK. He has taught Yiddish language and culture at many different places--longest of all at Harvard University and the Yiddish Book Center.
In his own words: “I am fascinated by the sound of Yiddish--its vowels, consonants, and intonations--and by Jewish music with its warmth, soulfulness, and historical richness. If there is a line between Yiddish speech and Yiddish song, I choose not to draw it.”