Cantor Sally L. Neff

Cantor Neff has a gift that enables her to touch the hearts and souls of those around her. She is warm and welcoming, and the look on her face when she is singing reflects her deep love of music and worship.

A master educator in the classroom and in less formal settings, Cantor Neff loves working with both children and adults. Her sermons in song – a combination of performance and teaching – reflect a depth of knowledge and talent that is glorious to behold. Cantor Neff has had the honor of singing under the direction of Ben Steinberg, the renowned composer of Jewish music, and alongside the well-known Jewish tenor, Alberto Mizrahi.

Born and raised in Queens, New York where she attended Temple Israel of Jamaica, she began singing at services when needed. She completed a double degree program through Oberlin Conservatory of Music and Oberlin College, where she studied Vocal Performance and Judaic Studies, earning honors in both. Her great love for Judaism, spirituality, and music led her to pursue cantorial school rather than a career on the stage. She attended the HUC – JIR School of Sacred Music, completing her degree in 2002 with a thesis entitled, “Music as Midrash: Music as a Language for the Creation and Communication of Meaning.” Before coming to The Reform Temple of Rockland, she served congregations in Edison, New Jersey and Worcester, Massachusetts.

You can reach Cantor Neff at (845) 358-2248 x106 or via email at CantorNeff@RTRNY.org.