It’s not a reality TV show, but it’s just as exciting. It is groups such as Pizmon, coming to Margate later this month, that have stimulated national interest in a cappella (group singing without musical instruments) performance. And Pizmon (that’s “chorus” in Hebrew) is nationally recognized for its musical talent, outstanding arrangements, and the energy generated by its love of Jewish and contemporary music. In short, you’ve gotta hear Pizmon! Pizmon is comprised of students from Columbia University, Barnard College, List College, and the Jewish Theological Seminary. And then there is the local connection – Brandon DeShields, a distinguished member of Pizmon.

Sponsored by the Board of Jewish Education and the Jewish Federation, Pizmon will perform throughout the weekend beginning with Shabbat evening, Friday, Jan. 29 through Sunday, Jan. 31.

The complete schedule is Congregation Beth Judah in Ventnor, for services and Shabbat dinner, Friday evening, Jan. 29, at 6 p.m. Shabbat morning at Beth El Synagogue for services and lunch, starting at 9 a.m. And at Temple Emeth Shalom on Sunday, Jan. 31, 9:30 a.m.

Pizmon will also perform for students, parents and faculty of the Trocki Jewish Community Day School on Friday, Jan. 29, starting at 11 a.m.

Brandon DeShields The cornerstone performance will take place on Saturday evening, Jan. 30, at 7:30 p.m., hosted at the Milton and Betty Katz JCC, in coordination with the Board of Jewish Education’s reception honoring our retired Jewish educators. The performance is free and open to the public — a wonderful musical opportunity for an audience of all ages! It will be followed by a dessert reception and a program to recognize, thank and honor many of the teachers who shaped the Jewish identities of our community’s young people.

More details will be available on the Federation website www.JewishByTheShore.org. RSVPs for the free Saturday evening performance can be made by calling the BJE at 822-1854.