Benzion Kapov-Kagan

Chazn Benzion [Yisrael Noach] Kapov-Kagan (1889-1953)

Yisrael Noach Kapov-Kagan was born in Romania. His father, Shlomo, was a merchant who died at a young age leaving behind eleven children, eight of whom also died within a short time of one another whilst they were still children.

As a youngster, Yisrael Noach sang in various synagogue choirs and at the age of 26 he obtained his first position in Rostov Am Don. He was then engaged by the Brodie Schul in Odessa, where he contested against 42 Chazanim for the post.

In those days the top Chazanim were treated as 'stars' and some of them were paid extraordinarily well. Kapov-Kagan was amongst this number and he became very wealthy. In 1930, the Bolsheviks came to his house to demand money. When he refused, they broke his arm and cut off his thumb! 

Eventually, using his brother Ben-Zion's passport, he was able to flee Russia, leaving his wife and child behind. He was now known as 'Ben-Zion,' and he retained his brother's name for the rest of his life.

When he went to the United States, he became Chazan, first to the Jewish Centre in Ocean Parkway and then to the Concords Jewish centre in the Bronx. Kapov-Kagan gave concerts all around the States. He also went to Canada and South America, and frequently performed with the choir of the famous choir-leader, Oscar Julius.

Until the end of his life, he tried to get permission for his wife and son to join him in America. He enlisted the assistance of President Roosevelt, but even he was unable to help. Ben Zion Kapov-Kagan died on the second day of Rosh Hashana 1953, deeply missed, and greatly mourned.

Rabbi Geoffrey Shisler

[78RPM]

Birchas Kohanim
RCA Victor 25-5146 1938

Kiddush (teyle 1 & 2) RCA Victor 68-8024 1938

Ono Bekoach RCA Victor 25-5146 1938

Rachmono Deonei (teyle 1 & 2) RCA Victor 38-1030 1938

Last update 18-01-2009