Gershon Sirota

Gershon-Yitskhok Leibovich Sirota (Russian: Гершон-Ицхок Лейбович Сирота; 1874 – 19 April 1943) was one of the leading cantors of Europe during the "Golden Age of Hazzanut" (cantorial music), sometimes referred to as the "Jewish Caruso".

Sirota began his cantorial career in Odessa, then spent eight years in Vilna as cantor of the Shtatshul (State Synagogue) there.

He performed on numerous occasions throughout Europe, and in 1902 he sang at a reception in honour of Theodor Herzl, the founder of the Zionist Movement.

He continued his concert appearances around Europe, and even sang in Carnegie Hall in New York City to a sold-out crowd.

While Sirota eventually left the synagogue over disputes concerning his frequent performances, he continued to live in Warsaw.