Photo by Felicia Black

Cantor Rochelle Helzner

Rochelle Helzner has served the Tikvat Israel/Beth Tikva community since the fall of 1984. She was the first female cantor in a Conservative congregation in the Washington area. Since her appointment, she has inspired our congregation and the community through her davening, teaching and mentoring. Under her leadership, the congregation has established many programs that continue to fulfill the musical, educational and spiritual needs of the community. Among them are our innovative Yachad services for parents and students grades 3-7, the student to student b'nai mitzvah tutoring, a joint Thanksgiving sing with members of a presbyterian church and a yearly concert with special guests.

Cantor Helzner graduated from Douglass College, Rutgers University with a degree in music, theater and art. Her cantorial training was received through apprenticeships with such notable hazzanim as Jeffrey Nadel, Arnold Saltzman, Max Wohlberg, and Robert Kieval.

Cantor Helzner and her husband, Robert Agus, live in Chevy Chase and have two children, Jonah and Jessica.

Can you carry a tune? Cantor Helzner needs your voice! Click here for more information or e-mail Cantor Helzner.

Check out Cantor Helzner song-writing talent [here].