‘Yiddishfest’ concert in Cunningham Park

The summer concert season at Cunningham Park in Fresh Meadows would not be complete without “Yiddishfest,” a celebration of Jewish and Klezmer music, and the 2008 performance, on Tuesday, August 12, proved what every Jewish grandmother knows - that schmaltz is thicker than water.
As the 7 p.m. start time for the concert approached, dark storm clouds swept mini-storms through Queens. Though nearby neighborhoods were left in sunshine, a downpour drenched the Cunningham Park lawn.
Unfazed by the rain, the crew set up the stage and sound system, confident that the show would go on. Like so many other storms, this one passed, leaving a rainbow in its wake as a beacon for music lovers.
Jan Fenster, president of the Queens Jewish Community Council (QJCC), acted as emcee during the pre-concert ceremonies, thanking the numerous sponsors, including the Parker Jewish Institute for Health Care & Rehabilitation.
Fenster had particular words of praise for the health care provider and its CEO, Michael Rosenblut.
“From cutting through red tape to supporting legislation helping the elderly and disabled, Michael Rosenblut and the Institute have partnered with us for many years, to benefit the entire community,” she said.
Many elected officials, who sponsored the event, including Borough President Helen Marshall, Senator Frank Padavan, City Councilmembers James Gennaro and David Weprin, spoke before the concert.
Many of the sponsors took a few moments to congratulate the organizers, as did Congressmember Anthony Weiner, who had to leave early to attend a nearby “town hall meeting” concerning local flooding.
The show, presented by the QJCC and the Workmen’s Circle/Arbeter Ring, featured the Golem Klezmer Band, Phyllis Berk and her band, and Avram Pengas with the Noga Group. Acclaimed vocalist Magda Fishman appeared as a special guest.
“This is going to be a wonderful concert,” said producer Moishe Rosenfeld as he ticked off the accomplishments of the performers and estimated the crowd at 2,000.
Before long, the throng had exceeded his expectation, drawn by the music and the beautiful sunset.
The infectious beat and harmonies had several scores of fans tapping their toes and clapping their hands.
They had come together to keep an art form alive that had survived the storms of centuries, and this night was theirs, rain or shine.