About Us

Ma'agal (מַעְגָל = circle) Maryland is a joy-filled community of singers from across the Metro DC area. We gather in a niggun circle to share connection and to lift our spirits by joining our voices in Jewish song. All are welcome!

What is a niggun, you might be asking?  A niggun is a wordless melody - we sometimes utilize a melody to frame words of psalms or prayers, but sometimes just singing the tones and harmonies allows us to channel the deepest feelings and connections to spirit and the Divine.

We are grateful and thrilled to announce that, as of January 2025, we are an official Hadar Community Group. Hadar is an institution that fosters Jewish learning and Jewish music. Because of Hadar’s generous support we have added percussion accompaniment at some of our events, adding a new depth to our singing.

Welcome, we are SO glad to have you join us!

Hadar Community Group leaders

Rena Strauss, Jason Schwartz. Laura Wallace, Naomi Mirman, Melanie Dankowicz, Michael Harrison, Lydia Graslie and Janaki Kuruppu