Nashirah, formed in 2002, is the only auditioned, avocational community-based chorale in the Greater Philadelphia area that performs Jewish and Jewish-themed repertoire. This unique addition to Philadelphia's cultural scene performs the broadest possible range of Jewish repertoire, including classic Jewish choral repertoire, Yiddish music, Israeli music, and magnificent yet rarely-heard Jewish music dating from 17th century Italy to the modern day. Singers come from all walks of life, and are united by a commitment to musical excellence, a love of Jewish choral music, and a desire to help listeners experience the great beauty of the Jewish musical tradition. Nashirah has performed at the North American Jewish Choral Festival, opening for the Zamir Chorale of New York, at the National Museum of American Jewish History, and at the 1427 Salon. Chorales such as the Zamir Chorale of Boston, the Zamir Chorale of New York, and Zemer Chai of Washington have long been considered cultural treasures of their communities. Nashirah, in residence at the Gershman Y, will be the first chorale of this type in the Philadelphia area. Currently performing as a 23-voice ensemble, Nashirah aims ultimately for a 40-to-60 voice choral presence.