MICHAEL BOGART: A TALE OF
TWO TRUMPETS M
By Ben Sherman
GRAB LIFE BY THE HORNS! Did you know that besides the shofar, trumpets also serve as a powerful symbol of Jewish resilience and survival? The significance of wind instruments in Jewish life dates back to the time when the Jews wandered through the desert. G-d instructed Moses to create two silver trumpets (chatzotzrot). The trumpet’s distinct sound assembled the people or signaled to start the next journey. Beyond their practical use, much like the shofar, the trumpets also held religious meaning, marking sacred festivals and the new moon. Interestingly, the word for trumpets, “chatzotzrot,” can also be interpreted as “chatzi tzurot,” meaning “half forms.” This term suggests that the trumpets remind us
Photo Credit: Jennifer Green Photography
ichael Bogart, a jazz trumpet player, is comfortable performing sold-out Jazz concerts with Tower of Power, and he’s also comfortable blowing shofar for Jews in his neighborhood. You could say the colorful life of Bogart is a tale of two trumpets, and how a Jazz musician found his Jewish soul and created the perfect harmony with his new sound. Raised in the vibrant cities of Chicago and Michigan, Michael’s early life was steeped in the rhythms of jazz and rock ‘n’ roll. He honed his craft, performing and recording alongside music legends such as Neil Diamond. However, it was during his time stationed in Hong Kong with the U.S. Navy Band that an awakening began. As the sun set on a Friday night, Michael, who thought he was the only Jew in the area, felt an undeniable urge to connect with his heritage. This calling led him to follow a Chasidic man rushing to the synagogue, igniting a spiritual journey that would transform his life. That Shabbat marked the beginning of many, as Michael immersed himself in Jewish traditions and teachings. His passion for music, once a means of entertainment, evolved into a profound expression of his faith. In 2022, Michael made the pivotal decision to leave the band Tower of Power, fully embracing his role as a Shabbat observant Jew. His dedication to music continued, but now he only performs on weekdays, spreading joy and inspiration through his melodies. •
Based on the teachings of the Rebbe
of our dual nature: body and soul, and that our perceived abilities and talents are just one part of the equation; the other part is G-d. Thus, no matter where Jews find themselves, they have confidence and joy in knowing that we are never alone in facing our challenges. That’s why, in contemporary times, we see courageous IDF soldiers praying before their missions. These prayers acknowledge our “halfness,” inviting and imploring G-d to complement our efforts. So, whether you’re dealing with a professional setback, a relationship dilemma, or simply feeling lost amid the chaos of daily life, think of the trumpets. Your journey isn’t a solo, it’s a divine duet.
High Holidays 5786 / 2025