Temple Beth Israel honors Florence Katz

Before the choir could begin its concert, Artistic Director Ann Stephenson-Moe had to explain that the members’ sparkly shirts were in honor of Florence Katz.

Katz, who died in December 2015, had style according to Stephenson-Moe. She also had musical talent and served as the choir and music director at Temple Beth Israel for 22 years.

To honor her dedication, the temple hosted its first Florence Katz Memorial Concert on March 29. The temple’s choir, which includes professionals thanks to the work of Katz, sang various songs that reminded them of Katz or were favorites of the late director.

“This was her first love after my father,” Judy Vigder, Katz’s daughter, said.

Vigder wrote a short speech that her husband read aloud for her. She explained her mother’s history with the choir and wrote that people sang her praises of being a warm person aside from her musical talent.

The concert brought more than 200 people to the temple. Following the concert, attendees enjoyed dessert and drinks. All proceeds benefited the Temple Beth Israel Choir Fun