Leslie Friedlander

Leslie Friedlander is a Jewish cantor who has made significant contributions to the field of music. She achieved a milestone in 1993 when she became the first female cantor to be ordained by the Academy for Jewish Religion in New York. Following her ordination, Friedlander went on to serve as a cantor at several prominent temples, including Temple Emanuel in New Hyde Park, where she spent eight years, and Riverdale Temple in the Bronx, where she served for eleven years.

Friedlander's dedication to her role as a cantor and Jewish educator has earned her numerous recognitions. In 2006, she received a Commendation from the City of New York, Office of the Comptroller. The following year, she was awarded a Citation of Merit from the Bronx Borough President for her service to Jewish children in the Bronx and her leadership as a Jewish educator. Additionally, in 2009, she received a Proclamation from the New York State Assembly and the New York City Council, recognizing her special contributions to the community. Currently, Friedlander serves as the cantor at Temple Isaiah in Great Neck, New York, a position she has held since 2011.