Beth has been blazing a trail in Contemporary Jewish music for over 14 years and has been a constant and vital force in the Union of Reform Judaism with her music and teaching abilities. She has been a guitarist since the age of 6 and attended the University of Miami School of Music on a jazz scholarship, receiving her degree in Music Theory and Composition with honors.

Beth's participation in temple life and Union activities has included being a featured performer at many URJ Biennial conventions, being the "guitarist-in-residence" for all worship at these conventions for the last 10 years, being on faculty at the Scheidt Leadership seminar for temple presidents, at Camps Kutz and Coleman, and being a guest artist at regional biennial conferences around the country. She has been a featured recording artist on all 7 of the Ruach CD series as well as the Tzedek tirdof, the URJ's Social Action Songbook, and her liturgical settings are used regularly in synagogues throughout the country.

Beth was commissioned to write a theme song, for Voices for Israel, an organization that raises money for victims of terror through music. Her anthem, Land of Your Heart, was recorded by over 80 of todays top Jewish women in music including, Tova Feldshuh, Julie Silver, Neshama Carlebach and Debbie Friedman. Beth was also commissioned to write an anthems for JCCA Maccabi Artsfest for the last 3 years, where she was the artist in residence for the vocal arts program mentoring Jewish teens wishing to pursue music in college and for their career.

Beth's 7 CDs of original music are a reflection of her constant inspiration which she brings to her pulpit and to her teaching each and every day. She is a dedicated mentor to her students and creates inspirational, creative worship experiences for our congregation.

Beth likes making music, loves bringing people together through the power of music, prayer and study, and feels God's presence when it all works right. She has no intention of forcing any beliefs on anyone, but to those who are searching for something greater than themselves, Beth seems to make a magical connection. She is creating modern-day musical midrash, the contemporary interpretations of ancient texts that help us make sense of the world. Beth is happily married to her husband, Chris for 18 years and has two daughters, Hannah and Sarah.

For more on Beth's performance and recording career, visit www.bethschafer.com, or email bethschafer@mac.com.