Yitzchak (Isidore) Glickstein
1889 – 1947

Chazan Glickstein was born in Kishenov, Bessarabia,  on the 20th September 1889. His father Yechezkel was a Baal tephillah.From Kishenov the family moved to Hungary where he sang to the famous Chazanim Bachman and Hartman. During this time he studied at the Talmudical College of Rabbi Deutsch and also studies music at the Budapest Conservatory.

His first post as Chazan was in Tzdelmark, and then he went to the renowned Tabuk Temple in Budapest.

In 1923 Chazan Glickstein was appointed Chazan to the Temple Mishcon Tephillah in Boston Mass, and he remained in this position until the end of his life, 24 years later.

Chazan Glickstein was a lyric tenor with a massive range. He was also blessed with a very sweet tome and beautiful coloratura. It is said that he used his great musical knowledge in Davening, and that no-one ever tired of listening to him.

His Victor recordings (later released on Greater Recording Company – ‘In the Synagogue with the Great Cantors’, volume 4) – namely B’rosh Hashonoh, Ya’aleh, retsei Vinmuchoseinu and Min Hameitsar, were the most popular recordings of that time in Boston. He also made a recording of Hashkiveinu on Masterworks of the Great Cantors issued by the Greater Recording Company.

Chazan Glickstein was one of the main organisers of the Chazonus Farband, and for several years was its president. Later he became Honorary President.

Chazan Glickstein was a devout Zionist and served as Prersident of the Zionist Organisation in Boston. He visited the Holy Land twice and composed a setting to Eso Einai (Psalm 121)

He had an open hand and always gave very generously.

He passed away on 27th Nisan 5707 – 17th April 1947. His three brothers, Louis, Eugene and Adolph were also Chazanim.