Cantor Lauren Adesnik

Cantor Lauren Adesnik is a bright, dynamic spiritual leader specializing in Jewish music and the cantorate as a vehicle for spiritual growth, connection, and transformation. With a focus on inviting congregants of all ages into accessible worship experiences, her collaborative partnerships and teamwork have shaped a vibrant Jewish communal life with music at its core. Her energetic motivation and creative innovation, coupled with intuitive listening, builds thriving musical groups of all ages, creates opportunities for mentoring Jewish musicians, and fosters dynamic  community musical collaboration and active communal participation.

During her tenure as cantor, Cantor Adesnik has brought together diverse communities, both Jewish and interfaith, by elevating connections through song. She built a thriving partnership with the ACSO and ASO while in Atlanta, elevating Jewish music through symphonic works. Her work with her junior choir, Shir HaKochavim, led to them being the only Jewish musical group featured at the Governor’s Mansion holiday
festival for seven years.

Cantor Adesnik’s empathetic guidance encourages learners of all ages, and she holds a special place in her heart dedicated to working with B’nai Mitzvah students and their families. Cantor builds a personal relationship with each student and their family, creating a holistic experience that is empowering, engaging, and deeply meaningful.

Cantor Lauren is a passionate builder of sacred relationships. She is committed to crafting an inclusive Jewish life for everyone regardless of gender, pronouns, partner preference, or different needs or abilities. She elevates Jewish life through music, learning, teaching, and living Torah. Cantor Adesnik is a certified Jewish Spiritual Director who serves those seeking a deeper connection with their Judaism and with what they define as an element greater than themselves. Additionally, she is currently engaged in MMTCP, a world-renowned mindfulness meditation teacher certification program with Jack Kornfield and Tara Brach. She is excited to bring a weaving of Judaism and Mindfulness to Temple Emanuel.

Lauren was born and raised in Los Angeles, CA., and received her Bachelor of Music in Vocal Arts Performance from the University of Southern California. She served synagogues throughout the Southern California region as a cantorial soloist while also performing as a regional opera singer. Cantor Adesnik  received her Master of Sacred Music in 2012 and her  Ordination in 2013 from HUC-JIR Debbie Friedman School of Sacred Music in New York City. Cantor Adesnik served Temple Emanu-El of Greater
Atlanta and became the first reform cantor of Kentucky when she served The Temple in Louisville, KY. Cantor Adesnik spent the past year serving many different communities within the DMV.

Cantor Lauren is immensely thrilled to join the Temple Emanuel community of Kensington as their interim Cantor. Cantor Adesnik resides in Rockville, MD, with her husband Moshe, her daughter Lavender, and their beloved standard poodle, Wally.