We have a collection of 3 arrangements for Samuel Cohen — Hatikvah (Israeli National Anthem)
Did you know Hatikvah’s melody is inspired by a 16th-century Italian song and Smetana’s "Má vlast"? Learn!
Samuel Cohen, also known as Shmuel Cohen, was a Jewish musician and composer born in 1887 in the Ottoman Empire, in what is now Turkey. He is best known for composing the melody for "Hatikvah," which later became the national anthem of Israel.
Here are some interesting facts about Samuel Cohen and "Hatikvah":
Early Life: Cohen was born into a Sephardic Jewish family in Istanbul. He showed an early interest and talent in music.
Composition of Hatikvah: In 1888, the Zionist poet Naftali Herz Imber wrote the lyrics for "Hatikvah" in Romania. Samuel Cohen composed the music for it in 1888, and the two were later combined.
Zionist Connection: "Hatikvah" means "The Hope" in Hebrew, and the anthem expresses the Jewish people's hope for the return to their homeland, Israel. It became associated with the Zionist movement.
Controversy: While "Hatikvah" is widely accepted as the Israeli national anthem, there has been occasional debate and discussion about potentially changing it due to its somewhat somber tone and its focus on Jewish hope, which some argue does not fully represent the diversity of Israel's population.
Legacy: Samuel Cohen's composition has endured through the years and is an integral part of Israeli cultural identity. "Hatikvah" is played at official ceremonies, sporting events, and other significant occasions in Israel.
Samuel Cohen's contribution to Israeli music through "Hatikvah" remains a significant part of the country's cultural heritage.