Where do you go to hear 11 different versions of "Mi Chamocha?" Where can you hear three different choirs of singers from age seven to 67? Where can you encounter four violins, one viola, two cellos, four flutes, two clarinets, two saxophones, two trumpets, a trombone, a tuba, a few guitars, a couple of basses, and a gaggle of percussionists?

Why, Temple Micah, of course. And it must be Shabbat Shira, when we read the "Song of the Sea," including the familiar Mi Chamocha text.

Our annual Shabbat Shira Musical Extravaganza is on Jan. 22. This is a service where ALL of Temple Micahs musical forces come together to create an amazing worship experience.

We are very proud that the music for all of our services contributes greatly to the "sacred drama" that characterizes our prayer. The Shabbat Shira service amplifies this awesome contribution. The 11 different musical settings of the same text are chosen to unfold the drama that is our service.

The text of "Mi Chamocha" says:

"Who is like You, Eternal One, among the gods that are worshipped?

"Who is like You, majestic in holiness, awesome in splendor, doing wonders?

"A new song the redeemed sang to Your name."

Each composer whose melodies we use approaches "Mi Chamocha" from an unique perspective. One composer may emphasize the grandeur of these words. Another underscores the raucous quality of "the redeemed" singing a new song. Yet a third composer may find a hushed simplicity.

At Temple Micah, we begin our service in a quiet way that quickly builds to a community sing-along, to "warm up" the Congregation and prepare ourselves for group prayer. The Richard Silverman melody we use (the familiar "la la") is a natural choice.

Later, when the "drama" calls for a majestic moment, all the choirs and instrumentalists sing a stirring setting of "When You Believe," by Stephen Schwartz.

Yet another time, when we march around with the Torah, we sing Debbie Friedman's "Mi Chamocha" and "Miriams Song." And when the service calls for a quiet moment, we sing Lazar Weiner's haunting melody.

Do not miss this annual musical happening at Temple Micah.

On Friday, Jan. 14, our mini pickup band of drums, flute, clarinet, and violin will again enhance our evening worship experience. If you missed the first two similar services, I urge you to attend this one.

The adult volunteer choir will rehearse on Jan. 6 and 20.