Cantor Nelson began her career with Temple Israel as a Cantorial Soloist when the South Dade location was still open. Then, as she was completing her studies to become a Cantor, she would spend her weekends traveling from school in New York to Miami in order to serve as a student Cantor.

Cantor Nelson has the honor of being the very first female Cantor and graduate of Hebrew Union College/School of Sacred Music to serve in Miami-Dade and Broward counties. Recently concluding an awe-inspiring 29 years of service at Temple Beth Am, we are so fortunate to have Cantor Nelson join us while we prepare to celebrate our upcoming centennial. She will no doubt add depth and history to a highly anticipated year of celebrations.

Cantor Nelson is highly recognized and regarded throughout the world as a composer of Jewish music, with several compositions published by Transcontinental Music in New York City. She is skilled in several instruments: voice, piano, flute, and guitar. She has performed in concerts and workshops throughout the United States and Europe and has taught Jewish Music history at the University of Miami. In addition, she has helped lead services for Shabbat evening, Shabbat morning, and Havdalah services at URJ Biennials. Currently, Cantor Nelson hosts The Jewish Voice, a live streaming show on Thursdays at 7 pm, where she features leading artists in the world of contemporary Jewish music.

She is also an extremely proud mother of twin daughters, Leah and Rebecca. Rebecca is in her first year of residency after graduating from medical school in 2020. Leah, who graduated from the University of Miami with a degree in Neurological Music Therapy, is working for Season Hospice in Miami as a Musical Therapist.

Cantor Nelson has many fond memories of Temple Israel and is beyond excited to be coming back home. In fact, she has plans to create a brand-new composition in honor of Temple Israel’s centennial.