nigun

Nigun (Hebrew: נִיגוֹן) is a Jewish musical form centered on melody, typically sung aloud by a group and often performed without instrumental accompaniment. The term means "melody" or "tune," and nigunim (plural) are a key feature in Hasidic and other Jewish communities, used to evoke emotion, devotion, and communal unity during prayer, study, and gatherings.

Form and characteristics: Nigunim are primarily vocal melodies. They may be wordless, using syllables or vowel sounds to emphasize musical shape, or they may incorporate short Hebrew phrases or prayers. They are often learned and transmitted through repetition within a community, and improvisation by a lead singer or small group is common, with participants gradually following the tempo and emotional arc.

Origins and development: Nigunim arose within the Hasidic movement in Eastern Europe in the 18th and 19th centuries as a way to foster spiritual elevation and joyous devotion. They became associated with particular Hasidic dynasties and leaders, who composed and performed nigunim for communal inspiration. In the 20th century, figures such as Rebbe Nachman of Breslov and Shlomo Carlebach popularized and renewed interest in nigunim, influencing both religious and secular Jewish musical cultures.

Practice and context: Nigunim are performed in synagogues, shtiebels or study halls, weddings, and informal gatherings. They can serve as preludes to prayer or study, as meditative or uplifting experiences, or as a means of communal bonding. Instrumental accompaniment is optional; many groups favor a cappella or minimal instrumentation to preserve the focus on the vocal melody.