Manfred Lewandowski
Manfred Lewandowski (1 September 1895 – 8 September 1970) was a German-US-American cantor, classical baritone and composer. Life. Born in Hamburg, Lewandowski came from a Jewish cantorial family. He was the great-nephew of Louis Lewandowski, the innovator of synagogue music in 19th century Germany, and was trained first by his father, then at the Vogt Conservatory; his vocal subject was the baritone. He performed as a synagogue singer at an early age. From 1921 to 1923 he was head cantor in Königsberg (East Prussia), from 1923 to 1928 at the in Berlin-Halensee and from 1928  to 1938 head cantor at the in Berlin-Kreuzberg. In addition to this activity in the field of Jewish cult singing, he was also a regular guest on the after the introduction of radio in Germany from 1924, where he performed synagogue songs on the microphone in addition to the classical repertoire. He also performed opera arias and songs on other radio stations in Germany. During this time he also made numerous recordings on Electrola, Odeon and Homocord, including opera scenes (including duets with Hans Heinz Bollmann), songs and Jewish cult chants. On , the organist Franz Doll and the pianist  and Kapellmeister Dr. Felix Günther were his accompanists. In the summer of 1938, he emigrated to France and from there to North America in 1939. He worked here as cantor at a New York synagogue 1939–1940, in Philadelphia 1940–1948, but continued to perform in synagogues until 1965. In the US, he recorded cult chants again in 1940 on the American Vox 'label'. He was also active as a composer, especially in the field of synagogue singing. Lewandowski died in Philadelphia at the age of 75 and found his final resting place at Montefiore Cemetery.y, 600 Church Road, Jenkintown, PA 19046 . where he died at the age of 75. Recordings. a) chasanut: b) secular song: