Izso Glickstein

Izso G. Glickstein was a fourth-generation Russian-American cantor. Glickstein immigrated from Hungary to the United States through Ellis Island, NJ on May 4, 1923. He became a naturalized citizen on June 7, 1928.
Glickstein was a world-class cantor and one of the leading Jewish singers in America ranking with Cantor Josef "Yossele" Rosenblatt and others of equal prominence. He served as Chief Cantor at multiple synagogues including Europe's largest. Glickstein served for nearly 25 years at Leonard Bernstein's childhood synagogue in Roxbury, Massachusetts. Bernstein described him as a fabulous cantor and his favorite cantor. He hosted radio programs on Boston's WNAC to popularize Hebrew music. He performed in hundreds of concerts, was the President of the New England Cantor's Association, and made multiple recordings of cantorial music.
A movie was made about Glickstein and his granddaughter called My Grandfather's Prayers, which premiered on January 25, 2020. Two videos were made about his cantorial music. Short biographies were published in 1923 and 1924, and a larger one in 1933.

Early family life

Izso G. Glickstein was born on September 20, 1889, in Kishinev, Russia. He was the oldest surviving son of Ezekiel Glickstein and Gittel. Izso's father Ezekiel was born in Hannopil, Russia. He moved to Zhytomyr where he was an Orthodox cantor, and then to Kishinev for rabbinical education.
Izso Glickstein's earliest memory of wanting to become a cantor was listening to his grandfather Moshe Glickstein chant ancient prayers at the Great Synagogue of Kishinev. At an early age, Izso started singing in his grandfather's choir. Izso recalled this as one of the greatest events in his life, and came to be hailed by the congregation as a prodigy or "wonder child." It was also during this time that Izso heard the famous cantor Zeidel Rowner sing when he visited the Great Synagogue of Kishinev. Izso then adopted the aspiration to become a great cantor.
Izso's father Ezekiel Glickstein had a cantoral post outside the city of Kishinev while he attended rabbinical school in Kishinev. Izso would sing both for his father's and his grandfather's congregations. For the High Holidays, both father and grandfather wanted Izso to sing at their synagogue. Izso preferred his grandfather's great synagogue over his father's small, remote synagogue. The dispute was resolved when Ezekiel paid Moshe to let Izso sing outside of Kishinev.
The dispute over the nine-year-old Izso and his incredible vocal talent broadened. Other synagogues wanted him to sing for their choirs, but Ezekiel refused. One cantor actually kidnapped Izso for the High Holidays. The raider came in the night and took him 20 kilometers away. Izso was returned after the festival along with candy, toys, and 200 rubles.
Moshe Glickstein's father was Haskel. Both were born in Hannopil where Haskel was a cantor. Hannopil was an important center of Hasidic Judaism, and this branch of Jewish practice probably had a significant influence on Moshe.
Ezekiel graduated from rabbinical school in Kishinev in 1900 and sought a larger congregation and post. He correctly sensed that anti-semitic tensions were rising in Kishinev. Ezekiel immigrated with his family to Rákoscsaba, Hungary in 1900. Izso was 11 years old at the time. Ezekiel served as Orthodox rabbi, cantor, and dayan in Rákoscsaba. After immigrating to the United States, Ezekiel was cantor and rabbi for an Orthodox community in Peabody, MA.
In Rákoscsaba, Izso had five brothers and one sister: Izidor, Louis, Frigyes, Esther, Eugene, and Adolph. Of these siblings, two brothers died in Rákoscsaba before Izso immigrated to the US in 1923.
Izso Glickstein's cantorial lineage is summarized below, with details on his cantorial posts described at [|Chief Cantor Positions in Europe] and [|Mishkan Tefila].

Generation	Given Name	Birth Year	Birth City	Cantorial Post	Branch
1st	Haskel	~1810	Hannopil, Russia	Hannopil, Russia	Hasidic
2nd	Moshe	~1830	Hannopil, Russia	Hannopil, Russia The Great Synagogue, Kisinev, Russia	Hasidic Orthodox
3rd	Ezekiel	1859	Hannopil, Russia	Zhitomir, Russia Town outside Kishinev Rákoscsaba, Hungary Peabody, MA, USA	Orthodox Orthodox Orthodox Orthodox
4th	Izso	1889	Kishinev, Russia	Celldömölk, Hungary Dohány Street Synagogue, Budapest, Hungary Győr Synagogue, Hungary Temple Mishkan Tefila, Boston, MA, USA	Neolog Neolog Neolog Conservative

Education

Izso Glickstein and his younger brothers studied Talmud and learned Hebrew melodies with their father Ezekiel from an early age. Glickstein entered public school in Rákoscsaba and advanced rapidly. Glickstein initially sang in the Orthodox Rumbach Street Synagogue for the famous cantor . But at the age of 12, Glickstein's voice changed and he stopped singing. Instead, he concentrated on high school and yeshiva. By the age of 18, Glickstein had graduated from both.
At the age of 19, Glickstein's "golden voice" returned as a rich tenor and he began singing again. He was sponsored by a wealthy Budapest woman to study voice in Nitra, Slovakia for a year, perhaps with Mordechai Krasnansky, a famous Nitra cantor at that time. The following year, at age 20, a wealthy merchant living in Rákoscsaba sponsored Glickstein's attendance for a year at the Franz Liszt Academy of Music in Budapest. During his first year, he won an additional three-year scholarship from the school and completed four years of study. During his tenure at the Liszt Academy, he studied under Jenő Hubay as did Fritz Reiner and Joseph Szigeti, another prodigy.

Early career

Glickstein graduated from the Liszt Academy in 1913 with an offer to join the Budapest Opera House for a year. This was a tremendous distinction for a 24-year-old graduate. He took the position and performed in several operas in Berlin. He was acclaimed as a genius by the press and soon was offered the position of lead tenor.
When my father found out that I was thinking of an operatic career, there was a tragic scene, He came to Budapest with tears in his eyes. He thought that the worst thing that could happen to him was that his son would go on the stage, I pleaded with him, but he insisted that if I could be an opera singer then I surely could be a famous cantor, and that if I... continued in the opera he would disown me...
Glickstein could not bear the risk of losing his family, so he declined the Budapest Opera House lead tenor position.
Not long after Glickstein left the opera, World War I erupted. He was caught up in the quick mobilization and served as a chaplain in the Austro-Hungarian army. He was active on the Piave for eight months, but was seriously wounded in the leg by an Italian artillery shell fragment. His injury on the Piave aligns with the First Battle of the Isonzo of 1915.
While recovering from his war wounds, he met and married Gizella Hochman in Rákoscsaba on June 25, 1916.

Chief Cantor Positions in Europe

Celldömölk

Glickstein's first cantorial post came in 1916 at Celldömölk, Hungary at a Neolog synagogue where he also taught Yeshiva students. Two years later, Glickstein and his wife fled Celldömölk after the first phase of the White Terror struck on August 23, 1919. Soldiers broke into the synagogue, captured the rabbi, desecrated the synagogue, and robbed, raped, and murdered congregants.

Dohány

Glickstein retreated to Budapest and immediately secured a cantorial post at the Dohány Street Synagogue or the Great Synagogue in 1920. Dohány was the center of Neolog Judaism and the largest synagogue in Europe, seating 3,000 worshipers. This was the most prestigious cantorial post in all of Europe at the time. The post was open because the renown Zevulun (Zavel) Kwartin had left for the United States the previous year. According to a Dohány cantor in 2018, 62 cantors applied to fill Kwartin's post, and Glickstein was selected.

Győr

Glickstein took the position of Chief Cantor at the Győr Synagogue in 1922. It is not clear why Glickstein left Dohány for Győr. But he was free to give concerts in Vienna and other large European cities during this time. Glickstein was recruited in early 1923 while at Győr by Rabbi H. H. Rubenovitz of Mishkan Tefila. Glickstein was interested, but the president of the Győr congregation, who was also a government official, tried to persuade Glickstein to stay. But Glickstein's parents wanted to immigrate to the United States. The Győr congregation president compromised by offering Glickstein a two-year leave of absence. As a further enticement, he would continue to pay Glickstein's salary to his parents during the leave. Glickstein accepted the offer and immigrated to the United States in May 2023.

Mishkan Tefila

is the oldest Conservative synagogue in New England. Russian-born, a recent graduate of the Jewish Theological Seminary, was installed as Rabbi in 1910. He immediately conferred with the renown Solomon Schechter about introducing an organ, a mixed choir, and the reading of some prayers in English to the Conservative Jewish congregation. These were major innovations at the time. With encouragement from Schechter, Rubenovitz decided to proceed and secured approval from the congregation. Rubenovitz also led the commissioning of a new 1,200-seat synagogue and new organ, which were finally dedicated in 1925. But to complete the vision, Rubenovitz wanted a world-class cantor beside him.
The following sections cover the nearly 25 years of service by Glickstein while cantor at Mishkan Tefila.

1923

In the spring of 1923, Rubenovitz scouted Europe's grandest synagogues to bring an authentic old-world chazzan to Mishkan Tefila. He found Glickstein in Győr and invited him to audition in Boston. Cantor Glickstein interviewed for the position in Boston on July 23, 1923 and he was elected Chief Cantor on August 9, 1923. Initially, there was confusion about whether to spell his last name as Glueckstein and Gleuckstein.
On August 30, Mishkan Tefila announced that they would still hold High Holiday services at Seaver street even though construction was not finished. Many non-members are already taking advantage of the decision of the seat committee to offer a limited number of seats for the holidays to the general public in order that they may have the privilege of listening to Rev. Gleuckstein recently of Budapest...Last Sunday Mr. Gleuckstein appeared at the Temple Nantasket, where he received a most enthusiastic ovation...His voice was acclaimed as "sweet and it is powerful."
The first Hebrew musical services to be sent by radio in Boston were broadcast by station WNAC on September 17. Glickstein was featured along with the Mishkan Tefila choir. Rubenovitz gave a short address. In November, Glickstein became a newly elected instructor of the Cantor's Seminary along with cantor Pincus Minkowsky. Unfortunately, Minkowsky died in an accident the following January.
On November 30, a half page advertisement in The Jewish Advocate announced a Great Chanukah Concert. Glickstein was featured along with Pincus Minkowsky and I. Adelsman as Three World Famous Cantors. While the media finally settled on the spelling of Glickstein, Izso's first name would still be spelled in various ways for years to come.
Weekly advertisements announcing his post and home address started in November and continued through the year. His last name spelling switched to Glickstein from Gleuckstein in December.

1924

In early 1924, Glickstein was listed as a cantor for services, but not a featured artist.
By March 1924, he was listed among seven leading cantors for a major event.
Glickstein begins his work at Home for the Aged.
Glickstein supports Zionism, and his splendid interpretation of classic Jewish selections added considerably to the tone of the convention.
Glickstein personal ads continue weekly and occasionally offer lessons or alert the community to his residential change of address.

1925

Glickstein's prominence as a Boston cantor increased in 1925.

Three articles feature Glickstein as the guest of honor at the Jewish Culture Club of Boston. Glickstein's photo is used.
Glickstein is listed alphabetically among five major Boston cantors in full-page ad for Hebrew University Celebration at Boston's Symphony Hall.
Two Victor Recordings by Glickstein are released on July 7, 1925.
A reception is held to listen to Glickstein's new recording. The article includes his photograph.
Record ads begin from West End Phonograph Co. that include Glickstein's new records.
A High Holidays ad features the new Mishkan Tefila Temple, its new organ, Rabbi H. H. Rubenovitz, and Glickstein.
Article describes High Holiday Services at Mishkan Tefila. Glickstein is highlighted and described as services conductor.
Glickstein places a Season's Greetings message to Mishkan Tefila.
Glickstein personal ads end.

1926

Glickstein maintained a high profile in 1926.

Glickstein's significant contributions are acknowledged in B'nai B'rith Amos Lodge annual report.
Glickstein is the only solo singer featured in a special program at Boston Symphony Hall for Hebrew poet Bialik.
Mishkan Tefila successfully issues a $300,000 bond.
This in-depth article includes a Glickstein photo and gives credit to Ben Samuels, chairman of the music committee at Mishkan Tefila, for the vision of attracting a cantor like Glickstein, who is praised: Cantor Glickstein is fulfilling his destiny in the vision. His glorious voice seems even better, his standard of excellence for the choir is ever higher; his circle of admirers is growing ever larger...
Mishkan Tefila High Holidays ad/announcement is on page one of The Jewish Advocate, about one month earlier than the previous year. Readers are encouraged to buy seats now.

1927

In 1927, Mishkan Tefila was the leading Jewish congregation in Boston. The page-one, column-one article in The Jewish Advocate about its plans for High Holidays was a threshold moment for Rubenovitz, Glickstein, and lay leaders of the congregation. All of the accomplishments at Mishkan Tefila in 1927, including choir upgrades by Glickstein, occur well before late 1928 when Solomon Braslavsky joins the staff.

Article appears about Glickstein on WNAC radio stating: Cantor Glickstein is one of the finest cantors ever heard in this city.
Radio broadcast announced, along with Glickstein photo: The program will include a short address by Rabbi H. H. Rubenovitz of Mishkan Tefila, Roxbury, and the following selections by I. G. Glickstein and his choir...Cantor Isgo Glickstein, of the Temple, sang divinely at a Mishkan Tefila art exhibit.
Glickstein calls a cantor's conference.
WNAC radio program advertisement features Glickstein giving vocal solos or hosting a concert broadcast.
Page-one, column-one article about High Holidays at Mishkan Tefila in The Jewish Advocate; select quotes in order of appearance: 1. Special Enlarged Choir With New Leader Complete Rehearsals. 2. Cantor Glickstein Promises the Congregation Some Musical Surprises. 3.... not a single seat will be available after Sunday... 4. The services this year promise to be even better than those of preceding years, due to the fact that an enlarged choir under the supervision of Cantor Glickstein have been rehearsing new musical scores for months.At Mishkan Tefila, the largest religious edifice in Greater Boston, the crowd taxed the capacity of the synagogue where services were conducted by Rabbi H. H. Rubenovitz, assisted by Cantor I. G. Glickstein and a largely augmented choir.

1928

Glickstein continues to be very popular in Boston. Late in the year, Solomon Braslavsky, a prominent European musical director, joins Mishkan Tefila as choir director and liturgical composer. He adds to Mishkan Tefila's leadership in the New England area. Glickstein and Braslavsky begin to appear jointly in articles, but with Glickstein usually mentioned first.

Glickstein is the only vocalist in a page-one ad for a United Synagogue of America meeting in Boston.
Glickstein's brother Louis marries Dr. Sonia Rappoport, a dentist, at Mishkan Tefila with father Eziekel officiating along with Rubenovitz. Izso assists in the ceremony and brother Eugene is best man.
Glickstein sings at Home for Aged for a Beacon Club luncheon, which was greatly enjoyed.
In a page-one ad, Glickstein advertises for an alto choir voice.
Glickstein is Vice President of Cantor' Association and toastmaster for conference, with Cantor Zavil Kwartin of New York as guest of honor. Glickstein succeeded Kwartin at Dohány, making this an especially memorable occasion for the two famous cantors. Also attending is Prof. Braslavsky, making his first official public appearance as choir director for Mishkan Tefila.
Jacob Karlsburg and Glickstein are featured in an ad for the first New England Hazzanim Association concert.
Glickstein's brother Eugene is featured in advertisement for strictly Orthodox Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur services.
Midnight Selichos Service announced for Mishkan Tefila, with a special ritual in English, followed by Glickstein leading the regular Hebrew ritual. The musical setting is under the direction of Braslavsky.
Glickstein conducts evening service on "The Divine Flame." The musical setting is arranged by Braslavsky, newly elected musical director.
A lecture series on Jewish history is given by H. H. Rubenovitz. Glickstein officiates. The Temple Choir and Braslavsky assist.
Cantor I. G. Glickstein of Temple Mishkan Tefila, noted as one of the outstanding cantors of New England, has accepted the invitation of the committee to be the principal soloist in the elaborate program of Yiddish folk songs, Hebrew melodies and classical music. The coming of Cantor Glickstein in addition to the other important events has created great enthusiasm among the members of the Lawrence chapter, who are promoting this event. Every seat at the Colonial Theater is expected to be sold out.

1929

During 1929, fewer high-profile events are held and covered by the press.

Glickstein is the principal soloist in a program that includes Palestinian moving pictures.
Glickstein is featured, along with his photo, in a cantor's concert benefiting the Hebrew Immigrant Aid Society.
Braslavsky is credited with the popularity of Mishkan Tefila's choral society, especially among youths. Braslavsky is described as profoundly respected and eminently qualified. Glickstein is credited for advancing suggestions which help considerably in attaining the quality for which this choral society is intended.
Braslavsky gives lecture on the evolution of Jewish music. It is illustrated with selections by Glickstein.
Glickstein's musical program is featured for event attended by Massachusetts Governor Allen.
An article announces Braslavsky's availability for piano lessons, and an ad is placed offering lessons.
A full page advertisement is published by Mishkan Tefila announcing an evening program supporting the Zionism movement. Artistic concert program by the Temple Choir Society, under the leadership of Cantor Glickstein and Professor Solomon Braslavsky. The ad clearly places Mishkan Tefila at the center of the Zionism movement in Boston.
Mishkan Tefila hosts six Jewish congregations for a Thanksgiving day service. The musical program will be under the direction of Professor S. Braslavsky and will be carried out by Cantor I. G. Glickstein and the Mishkan Tefila choir.
Glickstein is elected President of the Minister's Cantors' Association of New England.

1930

1930 was a historic year for Glickstein and Mishkan Tefila. Glickstein is often found mentioned in page-one articles. All of this community activity occurred in the context of the Great Depression.

Glickstein is a leading cantor at symposium and concert as part of the Henry Levinson Institute: ... a splendid group of the leading cantors in Boston, among whom will be such celebrities and Cantor Glickstein, Rev. Rutman, Rev. Fuchs and Rev. Moss.
Glickstein is listed first among the most prominent New England cantors: A splendid selection of the finest jewish music... will be sung by a representation of the Jewish Ministers' and Cantors' Association of New England, consisting of cantors I. G. Glickstein of Mishkan Tefila, Fuchs of Kehilath... with Prof. Braslavsky at the piano.
Another page-one milestone event in Glickstein's career. Although it unfortunately occurs at the funeral for the beloved Judge David A. Lourie, the prominence of Mishkan Tefila and Glickstein is unmistakable: Thousands Attend Funeral Services. Temple Mishkan Tefila Jammed. Crowd on Steps and in Automobiles Unable to Enter Synagogue. And then later in the article: Cantor I. G. Glickstein chanted the prayers and Professor S. Braslavsky was in charge of the music.
Glickstein directs elaborate concert program for the Zionists of Boston.
In another overflow event involving Glickstein, hundreds were turned away for lack of space. This time it was a talk on the role played by Jewish people in building a civil society in the United States. The program featured Max Goldberg. The end of the article states: A musical program, consisting of vocal numbers by the Temple Mishkan Tefila Quartet and Cantor I. G. Glickstein, accompanied by Professor S. Braslavsky, were received with thunderous applause.
Glickstein is inducted into office as president of the Jewish Ministers and Cantors Association. It was the largest assembly of cantors ever held in New England at the same place.
Again in support of a Zionist event : Cantor Glickstein Assisted by Professor Braslavsky and Mishkan Tefila Choir in Concert Program.
Glickstein is featured in a Festival of Purim at Mishkan Tefila.A brilliant array of talent has been arranged for the benefit concert and dance of the Alliance Hebrew School... Cantor I. G. Glickstein of Temple Mishkan Tefila, Professor S. Braslavsky and members of the Franklin Park Yiddish Theater will participate.
Glickstein is inducted into office of the Jewish Ministers Cantors Association.
An article and an ad appear in the same issue advertising an Educational Alliance concert and dance, with Glickstein featured in both. The event was praised a few days later: The benefit concert... proved to be one of the most brilliant affairs of the season, and was attended by more than 500 people... Cantor I. G. Glickstein of Temple Mishkan Tefila enthused the audience to the highest pitch with his golden voice. Professor Braslavsky accompanied him at the piano.
At an event for B'nai Brith: A delightful musical treat was given by Cantor I. G. Glickstein of Temple Mishkan Tefila.
Rabbi Rubenovitz takes one-year leave of absence to visit Europe and Palestine.
A special WNAC broadcast is announced with a photo of Glickstein. The article describes him as the foremost New England cantor.

1931 - 1932

During 1931 and 1932, most of Glickstein's activities focused on Mishkan Tefila events. A few examples, and exceptions, are highlighted below.

Glickstein is featured, with his photo, for parent's night at Mishkan Tefila.
Braslavsky gains prominence in Boston as he combines musical music with performance. He often asks Glickstein to sing in the programs. For example, in early 1931, Braslavsky offers a program of Hebrew compositions and traditional synagogual music never before presented to the public in this country. Braslavsky and Glickstein are featured, along with photos, in the article.
Glickstein is the central figure in a Group of Finest Artists in Concert gathered to honor a rabbi of the Ozharov Hasidic dynasty.
Mishkan Tefila hosts a Hebrew Immigrant Aid Society concert featuring leading artists and entertainers... Among those guest artists will be Cantor I. G. Glickstein and Professor Braslavsky... Professor Albert Einstein... accepted the invitation of to be its guest next year.
Glickstein is featured in a page-one ad for High Holiday services: We are happy to announce that our High Holiday Services will be conducted by Rabbi Perez Hailpern of New York assisted by our inimitable Cantor, Itzko Glickstein. Seat Committee dates and times are listed.
Glickstein is featured at annual Lowell, MA event: Featured on the program is the well known artist and recording star, Cantor I. G. Glickstein of Mishkan Tefila. Prior to his coming to America, Cantor Glickstein literally stormed the Jewish liturgical world in Europe, and his stay here has been one round of success.
Glickstein is the featured artist in this page-one article announcing a special event to honor world Zionist leader Nahum Sokolow.
The President of Boston University speaks at Mishkan Tefila. There is also a fine musical program rendered by Cantor Glickstein.
Glickstein issues a correction, stating that he was incorrectly listed as a candidate for Ward Committeeman.
The New England Cantors Association performance is a page-one announcement. Glickstein is the featured soloist at the annual event: The entire group sang the composition, "Gigdal," and Rev. I. Glickstein of Roxbury sang the solo with much feeling and expression, adding much to its significance.

1933

Major headlines are generated in Boston when Glickstein takes a four-month leave to visit Palestine. He also participates in multiple, high-profile Zionist and anti-Hitler events.

A great composer of Jewish liturgical music, Zavil Silbert, writes new pieces for Glickstein.
An ad announces that Glickstein will be taking a leave of absence to study in Palestine, and that an article about his life will be published in the Boston Transcript.
A lengthy biography of Glickstein, including his photo, is published in the Boston Transcript.
A page-one article, with his photo, announces that Glickstein was granted a four-month leave of absence to study the origin of Hebrew music in Palestine.
A massive charity effort by the Associated Jewish Philanthropies delivers meals for the eight-day Passover. It also hosts a special musical service at Mishkan Tefila. Glickstein's photo is featured, along with an announcement of a closing meditation that he wrote and will sing. Glickstein's visit to Palestine and a testimonial banquet for him are also announced.
Good wishes are sent to Glickstein from the Mishkan Tefila Brotherhood. In the same issue, a page-one advertisement is placed for the bon voyage concert.
Glickstein's bon voyage dinner is described. The event included Cantor Mordechai Hershman of New York, formerly chief cantor of Vilna.
Glickstein sings at the Ort Federation of Boston.
Glickstein's departure date, ship, and port location are announced. Family, friends, and fellow cantors were there to sing hatikvah.
Glickstein returns from Palestine and sings folk songs at his reception and a Zionist celebration of Balfour Declaration.
Page-one advertisement announcing a protest against Hitlerism is placed, featuring Glickstein and other leading cantors for the musical portion of the event. A follow-up article was published, featuring Cantor Glickstein for singing several Jewish folk songs that were enthusiastically received.
In a benefit for starving Jews in Uman, Glickstein participates by presenting a group of new religious and folk songs. Braslovsky directs the Boston Jewish Choral Society choir. A follow-up article was published about the event, again featuring Braslavsky and Glickstein.

1934 - 1935

During 1934 and 1935, Glickstein was very active in charitable and Zionist events.

Glickstein is on the executive committee of the Hebrew Immigrant Aid Society.
Glickstein assists H. H. Rubenovitz at charitable event.
Glickstein takes US and Canada tour with his brother Eugene.
Glickstein sings at Home for Jewish Children event.
Glickstein and Rubenovitz become new officers of New England Zionist District.
A large advertisement is posted for a meeting of Boston's Zionists at Mishkan Tefila. Music by Glickstein and Braslavsky. It is repeated a week later.
One thousand people attend to hear speaker Ludwig Lewisohn at Mishkan Tefila. Glickstein offers vocal selections and closing hatikvah.
Glickstein and Leah Post sing at Palestine documentary movie event.
The celebrated Cantor Itzo Glickstein sings at Congregation Agudath Achim.
Glickstein becomes president of the Roxbury Zionist District. Brother Adolph sings several pieces.
At Mishkan Tefila, guest speaker Dr. Israel Goldstein argues that Zionism stands for the cultural revival of the Jewish people.

1936 - 1939

The number of major events featuring cantor Glickstein outside of regular Mishkan Tefila activities decline from 1936 to 1939.

Glickstein delighted the audience with charming folk songs at a Daughters of Israel event.The Friday evening services at Temple Mishkan Tefila have been attracting large congregations weekly. Glickstein chants the services.
Teacher from the Hebrew Teachers College speaks at students' service. Glickstein chants prayers.
Glickstein and Braslavsky prepare a special musical program for Rubenovitz's Silver Jubilee. Piano selections by Leonard Bernstein, son of the Temple's vice president; songs by Mrs. Charles Klarfeld, and vocal solos by Cantor I. G. Glickstein, accompanied by Professor Braslavsky, were well received.
Glickstein's photo accompanies an announcement of a special Friday night service.
Glickstein takes vacation to Palestine and visits London, Paris, Budapest, and Bucharest along the way. He is received by cantors' associations along the way. Glickstein was welcomed at a reception upon his return.
Glickstein has a weekly sponsored Sunday radio program on WORL Boston.
Glickstein's mother Gittel dies.

1940 - November 1941

Glickstein and Mishkan Tefila continue its community and broader outreach.

Glickstein is announced as featured soloist at special service to honor 10-year anniversary of Braslavsky. In a second announcement of the event, Glickstein's photo is included and described as... one of the most talented and renowned cantors in the country, will be featured soloist... A musical review of the event said Cantor Glickstein was much applauded for his work in the solos...
Glickstein is the featured soloist at a celebration of Rashi, the French Jewish commentator.
Glickstein chants the musical portions of a Peace Day service.
HIAS sponsors Oneg Shabbat at Mishkan Tefila, with all staff leaders preparing.
Glickstein is reelected to the HIAS board.
In its first major event in years, Mishkan Tefila prepares to host Eleanor Roosevelt. Preparations are extensive. Boston's mayor Maurice Tobin will deliver the welcome, and all key Temple leaders will play a role, including Braslavsky and Glickstein.
Just before Pearl Harbor, New England Zionists consider their post-war hopes for Palestine and world Jewry. Cantors Glickstein and Sol Fuchs present the musical program.

December 1941 - 1942

Mishkan Tefila responds quickly in support of US entry into WWII. But a sense of gloom pervades Boston's Jewry given its history of opposition to Nazi anti semitic policies and European pogroms.

Mishkan Tefila offers its facilities to assist any war efforts and starts work to sell defense stamps and bonds.
Glickstein distributes Christmas gifts with Mayor Tobin to patients and inmates at the Long Island Hospital.In accordance with President Roosevelt's request, special services of prayer were held yesterday at Temple Mishkan Tefila sponsored by the Rabbinical Association of Greater Boston...The musical program was in charge of Prof. S. Braslavsky and Cantor I. G. Glickstein.
The annual military services commemorating George Washington's birthday under the joint auspices of Boston Post, Jewish War Veterans, and the Brotherhood of Mishkan Tefila will be held at Temple Mishkan Tefila. The services will be conducted by Rabbi Herman H. Rubenovitz and Cantor I. G. Glickstein, assisted by the temple choir under the direction of Prof. S. Braslavsky.
In observance of National Goodwill and Brotherhood week... Dr. and Lieut. Col. Melvin Krulowich of the United States Marine Corp will be the principal speakers...Cantor Glickstein will officiate, assisted by the Temple choir under the direction of Prof. S. G. Braslavsky.In line with the nation-wide desire to voice sorrow over the SS. Struma tragedy and the loss of 750 refugees in the Turkish seas, New England Zionist and other Jewish groups are sponsoring a memorial meeting...Others on the program include...Cantor Itzo Glickstein and Cantor H. Leon Masovetsky and Prof. S. Braslavsky.
Mishkan Tefila stops midnight services for the duration of the War.
Synagogues were full for the second day of the New Year in Boston. Rabbis spoke on topics like: How Shall We Carry On In These Times, ''We Grow Strong, The Man of Destiny in a Time of Destiny, and There is Still Hope. And urgent pleas were issued for Europe's innocent Jewish people who are being beaten, starved, tortured, and massacred in cold blood''.

1943 - 1944

Glickstein's challenging life experiences, and those of his ancestors, empower his moving performances during difficult times for fellow Jews and the Nation.

Temple Mishkan Tefila advertises its annual Patriotic Service program. Rubenovitz and Glickstein featured in all caps.
Freedom is Passover theme for Boston rabbis.
Glickstein's 20th anniversary at Mishkan Tefila is celebrated.
Glickstein conducts funeral of labor leader with 1,500 in attendance.A memorial service for the United Nations soldiers who have fallen in battle and for the victims of Nazi oppression will be conducted by Cantor Iszo Glickstein...
Headline: Jewish Honor Roll Plaque Dedicated With Plea for Racial Tolerance. Later in the article: Loud sobbing broke out during the impressive exercises, when after the unveiling of the honor roll, the Hebrew chant for the dead was sung by Cantor I. G. Glickstein...One of the impressive moments was the solo by Cantor I. G. Glickstein in the Hebrew Memorial Chant to the Dead of This War. This was the highlight performance for a full capacity crowd at Boston Symphony Hall. Glickstein composed the piece he sang.

1945

The headline under a picture of Glickstein and Rubenovitz: Jewish Groups of Boston hold memorial service for Mr. Roosevelt. Cantor I. G. Glickstein of Temple Mishkan Tefila, Roxbury, chants memorial service while Rabbi Herman L. Rabinovitz listens.
Text of advertisement for Mass Memorial Meeting: Cantor I. Glickstein, of Temple Mishkan Tefila, will officiate at the memorial services for those massacred by the Nazi hordes.
The headline under a picture of Rubenovitz and Glickstein: High Holy Days observance this week was ushered in Sunday afternoon with annual memorial services in Congregation Mishkan Tefila Chapel in West Roxbury. Shown speaking is Rabbi Herman H. Rubinovitz, spiritual head of the congregation. Seated at the rabbi's left is Cantor I. G. Glickstein.
The headline under a photo of the steps of Mishkan Tefila: Navy Memorial Service—The memorial service of Navy Post No. 297... The service was conducted by Rabbi Herman H. Rubenovitz and Cantor I. G. Glickstein.

1946

The top six members and officers of Mishkan Tefila are pictured in The Jewish Advocate.
I. G. Glickstein is honorable president of the New England Cantors' Association.
After 36 years of service at Mishkan Tefila, Rubenovitz announces his plan to retire, starting with a leave of absence.
Caption under photo: Conducting Succoth Services—Rabbi Zev K. Nelson, guest rabbi at Temple Mishkan Tefila, Elm Hill av., Roxbury, and Cantor I. G. Glickstein observe the Feast of the Tabernacles in outdoor booth constructed outside the temple.
Leonard Bernstein in a Letter to the Editor from Braslavsky: And please tell Cantor Glickstein that he is still my favorite cantor.

Death Announcements

After several months of illness in early 1947, Glickstein died on April 17, 1947. There was an immediate outpouring of grief and deep appreciation for his many contributions. Local news outlets announced his death on page 1 and followed up on subsequent pages. The New York Times also carried an obituary.

The Boston Globe

Rev. Izso G. Glickstein, 55, cantor of Temple Mishkan Tefila for almost 25 years and noted interpreter of ancient jewish liturgy, died today at his home, 497 Warren st., Roxbury.One of the most active members of Greater Boston's Jewish community, he served for many years as president of the Jewish Ministers and Cantors Association of New England, chaplain at Long Island Hospital and served for a time as chaplain of Germania Lodge of Masons.Noted for his interpretation of the ancient Jewish liturgy in keeping with the European tradition...Known in Greater Boston's Jewish community for his generosity and service in charitable causes...Twelve hundred persons attended funeral services for Cantor Izso G. Glickstein, 56, who died yesterday...There were eulogies by Rabbi Israel J. Kazis and cantor Leon Lange of New York.

The Jewish Advocate

Izso G. Glickstein, Cantor of Temple Mishkan Tefila for nearly a quarter of a century, passed away this morning at his home, 497 Warren street, Roxbury, after an illness of several months.''''The death of the beloved cantor is a great loss to a community he had served in many ways...In December of 1943 the Advocate Carnation, symbol of community esteem, was awarded Cantor Glickstein.The Death of Cantor Izso G. Glickstein brings deep sorrow not only to his friends and admirers who appreciated his splendid musicianship, but to the general community which respected him for his kindness of heart and love for humanity.

The New York Times

Izzo Glickstein, cantor for twenty-five years at Temple Mishman Tefila and president of the Cantors Association of New England, died today at his home in suburban Roxbury. His age was 55. Before coming to this country, he was chief cantor in Budapest, Hungary.
Newspaper coverage of Glickstein's death was extensive across New England. For example: Cantor Glickstein Dies in Boston, New England Cantor Association Head Dies, Cantor Iszo Glickstein.

Tributes

Multiple Jewish news outlets published tributes to Glickstein. His and a few others are captured, in part, below.

By Rabbi Herman H. Rubenovitz

Source:
Rubenovitz recruited Glickstein to America and worked with him for 25 years. He wrote a particularly moving tribute:
"It was the Spring of 1923 that I first met Cantor Glickstein...After a brief conversation...I realized that he was the man for us...
"My first impression was more than confirmed in the course of the years that followed. I was associated with Cantor Glickstein for nearly a quarter of a century and throughout this eventful period which marked the opening of our new Temple, the expansion of our activities, the assumption of leadership by our Congregation in all religious and common affairs, he and I, together with Professor Braslavsky in the choir loft, worked together steadfastly and harmoniously to make of our services the finest jewel in the diadem of Temple Mishkan Tefila.
"In Cantor Izso G. Glickstein, we had a man gifted with a voice of remarkable power, range and beauty, but these gifts of themselves would not have made him the great Cantor that he was. In addition, he had those qualities of mind and heart which made it possible for him to penetrate to the very soul and spirit of our traditional prayers, and to interpret these in a manner which thrilled, exalted and inspired all of us. His renditions of the chants sung in connection with the Opening of the Ark, and the taking out of the Scrolls, was unforgettable, as was his singing of the beautiful soul-stirring music of the Avoda during the Musaph Service on Yom Kippur day.
"At the time whenn our persecuted, tortured brethren from Germany came fleeing to the shores of America and during those dreadful years when the sun of European civilization suffered an eclipse, Cantor Glickstein worked faithfully with me to give the unfortunates every possible aid and comfort. May his soul be bound up in the bond of eternal life and his example serve as inspiration to his children, his family and kin."

By Rabbi Israel J. Kazis

Source:
Rabbi Kazis was the acting rabbi at Mishkan Tefila when Glickstein died. His tribute, in part:
"The passing of Cantor Izso G. Glickstein has left a deep void in Temple Mishkan Tefila and in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. He was a member of that great class of distinguished cantors whose interpretation of Jewish liturgical music added immeasurably to the beauty, meaning, and dignity of the religious service...
"Cantor Glickstein gave of himself to every worthwhile cause in the community. He served as President of the Cantors Association in Boston for several terms, and was its honorary President at the time of his passing. He served as Chaplain of the Masonic Germania Lodge in Boston and as Chaplain of the Long Island Hospital. He was always ready to participate in the programs of the many organizations in our community. He thus served not only Temple Mishkan Tefila but the entire community..."

By Harry L. Katz

Source:
Harry Katz was the Boston publisher and editor of the weekly The Jewish World. Here is the first paragraph of his tribute:
"Within that unique Jewish tradition of the hazzan and sholiach zibbur as guide at public worship, Cantor Izso Glickstein stood unique. He brought new distinction to the traditional office. He place the office of hazzan in a new setting, and developed its fullest potentialities for the American congregation. Preserver and interpreter of the old, true to the ancient tradition and skilled in glorious bits of improvising and extemporizing a new arrangement as the spirit moved on, moulding a new thought-idiom into the traditional pattern and theme: Cantor Glickstein made the role of hazzan flexible and creative..."

Personal life

While Glickstein recovered form his WWI leg wound in 1915, he met and then married Gizella Hochmann on June 25, 1916. Her father was Miksa Hochman and her mother was Maria Bruck. They moved from Pest to Rákoscsaba with their daughter Gizella, and the wedding took place there. The marriage made Glickstein more acceptable for an official cantorial post. At some point before 1923, Gizella and Izso divorced: Izso was single when he immigrated to the US, and Gizella married Arnold Lengyel in Budapest.
In June 1925, Izso Glickstein married Ida Denholtz. Together they had three children: Helaine in 1926, Judith in 1927, and Mishel in 1931. Glickstein served as Chief Cantor at Mishkan Tefila for almost 25 years until his death in 1947. To replace him, over 50 cantors from around the world were auditioned to replace him, and Wolf Garbarz was selected.
Glickstein's father, Ezekiel, moved from Hungary to the Boston area and settled in Peabody, MA, where he was a rabbi for an orthodox congregation for four years. Ezekiel died at Izso's home on October 11, 1928 at the age of 68. Glickstein's mother Gittel died on April 5, 1938, also in Glickstein's home.
Glickstein had three brothers in the US: Louis, Eugene, and Adolph. All three lived in the Boston area, as did his sister Esther Landy. Dr. Louis H. Glickstein was born in Kishinev, Russia in 1894 and immigrated to the US in 1923. He was a cantor for High Holidays, a doctor of podiatry, and active in the Zionist movement along with Izso. He died in the Boston area in 1989.
Esther Landy was born in Kishinev, Russia in 1897, immigrated to the US in 1929, and married David Landy the same year. She died in 1991.
Eugene Glickstein was born in Rákoscsaba, Hungary in 1901 and immigrated to the US in 1923. He was a cantor and executive director at Mishkan Tefila. He moved to Portland, OR in 1954 and died there in 1977.
Adolph Glickstein was born in Rákoscsaba, Hungary in 1903. In 1931 he was the youngest cantor in Boston. He was a cantor for the New England Branch of the Young People's League. Adolph substituted for Izso as cantor at Mishkan Tefila during his illness and after his death. Adolph died in 1981.

Humanitarian Efforts

Glickstein was widely known as a great humanitarian. He supported many organizations through benefit concerts, volunteer efforts and financial contributions. Glickstein's involvement included: Hebrew Aid Immigrant Services where he was chairman of the organization committee, Jewish Workers of Palestine, Jewish National Fund, World Zionist Organization, and various schools, hospitals and relief funds for Eastern European Jewry. Glickstein sang or officiated at many weddings, funerals, and community events.

Professional Associations

Glickstein was very active in the Boston community. He was president of the New England Cantor's Association for several terms and honorary president at the time of his death. He was chaplain for the Masonic Germania Lodge and the Long Island Hospital.

Influence on Leonard Bernstein

Leonard Bernstein was eight years old, in 1926, when his family joined Mishkan Tefilah. As is noted in several Bernstein biographies, Hebrew music was a central early influence. Since Glickstein was cantor in 1926, and Braslavsky did not join Mishkan Tefila until 1928, Glickstein was the first major influence of high quality ancient Hebrew music on Bernstein. Bernstein said of his early years in the synagogue:
We had a fabulous cantor who was a great musician and a beautiful man, very tall, very majestic. He would begin to sing the ancient tunes - they are not exactly melodies, because they are not really written down; they're traditional, handed down orally - and he had a tenor voice of such sweetness and such richness - with a dark baritone quality - and then the organ would start and then the choir would begin with its colors, and I just began to get crazed with choral music.

Discography

Source:

Columbia Records, May 1925, 59972-1 Min Hametzar, 57011-F, 59973-2 R’zeih 57011-F
VictorRecords, July 1925, 68710-A Barosh Hashonu C 32940-2, Taale C 32941-2
Victor Records, July 1925, W 205588-1 Hashkivenb-Pt. i Co 57023-F W 205589-1 Hashkiveno-Pt. 2 Co 57023-F