Joining Congregation B'nai Israel as Hazan for The High Holidays in 1996, Lenny Mandel didn't only bring his rich and engaging voice, he also brought his strong sense of spirituality, kindness, warmth and joy. Cantor Mandel, who studied at Yeshiva University's Cantorial School-The Belz School of Jewish Music, and with various renowned Hazanim, is beginning his 12th year as our full time Hazan.

Cantor Mandel does not only lead our congregants in prayer. He uses his theatrical background: writing and directing our Purim Shpiel, the graduating class play, musical spoofs for various Synagogue functions, and adapting musical themes for our bi-monthly, casual erev Shabbat programs.

He organized the first adult Bar/Bat Mitzvah program here. 23 congregants aged 34-76, studied with him, and lead the complete erev Shabbat and complete Shabbat morning services, before each was called to the Torah. Cantor Mandel and his wife Shelly have a son, Wayne Mandel. Wayne and his wife Stacie have two sons, Dylan and Ari.