Temple Sinai Reform Congregation

Founded ca. 1871, Temple Sinai Reform Congregation has played an important part, along with the other Jewish congregations, in the history of New Orleans. Built ca. 1927, the congregation’s Sanctuary stands as a stunning work of art, if not a glorious space for worship and the making of music in a non-​worship setting, though it could be safely said the atmosphere this past Sunday evening there was at least a bit reverent, if not downright holy.
The Leipzig Youth Orchestra on its 2009 tour of Texas, Louisiana, and Mississippi made a stop in New Orleans and on its programme was the oratorio «Elijah» by Felix Mendelssohn. The choir the orchestra put together comprised folks from Houston, New Orleans, and other places, and yesterday, we had our big show in the Big Easy at this remarkable place.
Octagonal in shape and not re-​done in any manner since its construction (save for the introduction of lights and speakers), the room boasts seating for 800, stained-​glass-​windows, a gigantic wood ceiling, a granite (?) Ark bigger than my house and a timeless quality that took me to another time. Performing «Elijah» there was a spiritual experience, to be sure.
And while the scourge of carpet is ever-​present as well as cloth seats, the solid walls, balconies, and ceiling ensure a true presence of sound, though I have to wonder how things are when the place is full.
The hospitality of the people there to us was peerless. When next in NOLA, visit Temple Sinai and leave knowing you have laid eyes on one of the obscure glories of all Louisiana.