Born in 1894 in Ukraine, Sholom Secunda immigrated to New York City in 1907, where he would become a transformative force in American music. His compositions breathed life into countless productions, capturing the heart and soul of the Jewish immigrant experience. But Secunda’s influence reached far beyond the boundaries of Second Avenue.

In an era when Yiddish performers were shaping the sound of popular music worldwide, Secunda stood at the forefront. His magnum opus, “Bei Mir Bistu Shein” (1932), transcended its Yiddish theater origins to become an international sensation. When the Andrews Sisters recorded an English version in 1937, it soared to the top of the charts, introducing Secunda’s melodic genius to a global audience.

Secunda’s impact on Broadway was profound and lasting. His work helped pave the way for the Golden Age of American musical theater, influencing a generation of composers and lyricists. The lush orchestrations, memorable melodies, and emotional depth that characterized Secunda’s style became hallmarks of the Broadway sound. As we celebrate the 130th anniversary of his birth, we honor a composer whose melodies bridged cultures and generations.

Join us in honoring Sholom Secunda – a true maestro whose melodies continue to enchant and unite us, 130 years after his birth.