He used to perform in theatres before paying crowds. Now the sidewalk is his stage, where people throw coins into a case. But Yosef Sicarel is no down-and-out, and for his appreciative and inspired audiences, the doors never close
SONG OF THE SOUL According to Sicarel all sorts of people stop to hear him perform from chareidim to those who know nothing about Torah. Non-Jews will also stop and listen. “Music is a universal language” he says. “It reaches everyone” (Photos: David Mor)
T he Mamilla Mall which connects several five-star hotels to the Old City’s Jaffa Gate has become one of Jerusalem’s most popular venues for shopping dining and just strolling about and taking in the vibrant scene. On many days it’s the site of an unexpected spiritual encounter as well — at least for those who follow the haunting music to its source: A Yerushalmi-garbed Yid who plays the guitar while singing Jewish songs that create a holy yearning in the soul.
Those who work in the mall know him well; they’re used to seeing him standing in the same spot rain or shine playing for hours. Like the lampposts at the street corners or the electricity poles he has become a permanent fixture.
But for those who take a closer look the face of this musician with the soft velvety voice and somewhat forlorn look in his eyes seems vaguely familiar. And so it should because not so long ago Yosef Sicarel was a well-known Israeli performer.
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