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Svetlana PortnyanskayaSinger
Country:
 Russia |
Content:
- Russian and American Singer
- From Soviet Singer to Cantor
- Finding Fulfillment
- Challenges in Israel
- A Life in America
- Success and Fulfillment
- Family and Personal Life
- Financial Prudence and an Unusual Loss
- Business Ventures
- Love for Israel
Russian and American Singer
Svetlana Portnyanskaya, a graduate of the Gnessin State Academy of Music's pop department, protégé of Alexandra Pakhmutova, and former actress at the Shalom Theater, embarked on an unusual journey to become a cantor at a Los Angeles synagogue. Americans hail Portnyanskaya as a "true singing sensation" for her remarkably beautiful and powerful voice. She performs in renowned European venues and seamlessly weaves Jewish songs and prayers into her repertoire alongside jazz compositions and Russian romances. During her concerts in Israel, audiences have given her standing ovations.
From Soviet Singer to Cantor
"How did you ever think of pursuing your talent in a synagogue?" Portnyanskaya is asked. "You don't seem like a religious person. I don't think it's even possible for a former Soviet citizen to be religious after spending 70 years being told that God doesn't exist."
Portnyanskaya explains that she wanted to shed the "Soviet citizen" label. When she left the Soviet Union at age 25, she embraced the newfound opportunities in America, including the possibility of becoming a cantor. She had never considered it before, but was encouraged by her agent, who introduced her to the American artistic world. He signed her to a contract, and she began her journey as a concert performer in the United States.
Pursuing her agent's suggestion, Portnyanskaya enrolled at a theological seminary, where she received a scholarship and accommodation. She graduated from the University of Judaism and became a cantor. She later moved to Los Angeles and has worked in her profession for nine years.
Finding Fulfillment
Portnyanskaya describes her work as a cantor as a "calling." She believes that performing ancient prayers has deepened her songs, expanded her repertoire, and given her concerts a renewed sense of purpose. She now performs these prayers both in synagogues and on stage, accompanied by modern arrangements.
Portnyanskaya plans to continue balancing her work as a cantor with concert performances for as long as she is able. When she retires, she intends to dedicate herself fully to her synagogue work.
Challenges in Israel
Despite her impressive credentials, Portnyanskaya acknowledges that she would have struggled to find work as a cantor in Israel. The country's synagogues are predominantly Orthodox, which restricts cantorial roles to men.
A Life in America
Portnyanskaya expresses her gratitude for the opportunities America has afforded her. She left the Soviet Union with a determination to succeed and has found her niche in the country.
However, there are aspects of American culture that Portnyanskaya finds unappealing, including certain aspects of the press, cinema, and humor. She admits to feeling like an outsider in some ways, but remains committed to her life in the United States.
Success and Fulfillment
Reflecting on her career, Portnyanskaya acknowledges that her success in America may not have been as great as it could have been in Russia. However, she believes that America sets the "rules of the game" for the world and is not drawn to pursuing further success in her home country.
For Portnyanskaya, her victory in the "Step to Parnassus" international competition represents the greatest triumph of her career in Russia. Despite having achieved a comfortable life there, she was motivated by a desire to relocate to America.
Portnyanskaya compares her voice to that of renowned Russian singer Larisa Dolina, but acknowledges the limitations imposed by her accent in the United States. Nevertheless, she has made a name for herself and collaborated with renowned Jewish artists worldwide. She is grateful for her creative prime and the opportunity to share her voice with audiences around the globe.
Family and Personal Life
Portnyanskaya's husband, who is ten years her senior, is her regular sound engineer and often accompanies her on tour. She has two children, one born in Moscow and the other an American-born aspiring musician.
Portnyanskaya enjoys cooking and creating her own recipes, including a signature mushroom julienne. She prides herself on her ability to turn simple ingredients into delicious dishes.
Financial Prudence and an Unusual Loss
Portnyanskaya is conscious of her finances and does not carry a wallet with her on concert days. She experienced a peculiar incident in Australia when her wallet, containing credit cards but no cash, was stolen. Miraculously, it was later found in a trash can and returned to her, along with a cherished "lucky coin" that had been given to her with the message, "As long as you have this, everything will be fine."
Business Ventures
Portnyanskaya previously owned a newspaper and a television channel, but has since sold her business interests.
Love for Israel
Portnyanskaya's concert program is entitled "Israel - My Love." She expresses her deep affection for the country and its people and cherishes the opportunities to perform there.
