Choir is preparing to compete at the international event with a gala Toronto concert in June

Toronto, May 17, 2006-Lachan Jewish Chamber Choir has been internationally recognized with an invitation to the 4th annual World Choir Games in Xiamen, China, in July. This prestigious event will include over 400 choirs and 20,000 singers from more than 70 countries, each participating with the purpose of bridging cultural differences through music, much as Olympic athletes have done through sport.

Led by artistic director, Cantor Benjamin Z. Maissner, Lachan will compete in two categories at the World Choir Games. Each category will highlight the rich history of Jewish music, both secular and sacred, to the thousands of audience members attending the event.

"One of the goals of Lachan is to broaden awareness of Jewish music and the many Jewish composers," says Cantor Benjamin Z. Maissner. "Participating in the World Choir Games is a wonderful opportunity to both showcase Jewish musical heritage and its cultural and historical significance, and to communicate our message of peace and harmony through music to a global audience."

Lachan members are no strangers to the world stage, having performed in festivals and concerts in Canada and abroad. Their repertoire is diverse and eclectic, spanning the years from before the Renaissance through to the Twenty First century, and ranging in style from classical to popular.

Prior to attending the World Choir Games in China, Toronto audiences will benefit from a gala concert showcasing a wide range of Jewish choral music. Jewish Identity Through The Musical Lens will chronologically move from ancient chants to modern Israeli compositions. The concert will be held on June 12th at the Leah Posluns Theatre in Toronto.

"Jewish Identity Through The Musical Lens will illustrate the power and variety of Jewish choral music and its role in preserving the Jewish identity," says Maissner. "The goal of Lachan at every performance is not only to entertain our audiences, but to educate them as well."

For more information or tickets for Jewish Identity Through The Musical Lens, please visit www.lachan.org or call 416-782-3214.

Lachan Jewish Chamber Choir was founded in 1993 by Benjamin Z. Maissner, the Cantor and Music Director of Holy Blossom Temple in Toronto, and a group of Toronto-based musicians who shared his love of music. Now in its thirteenth season, Lachan (meaning 'melody' in Hebrew), is known for its musical virtuosity and a comprehensive repertoire that spans hundreds of years and a variety of styles. Lachan is dedicated to performing music that emerges from Jewish culture and aims to both educate and entertain its audiences.