Voice, Groove and Expression

Rachel Haymer—known as Kol Isha (“the voice of a woman”)—is a rapper, ukulele player, and celebrated NYC subway performer whose work blends Jewish text with rhythm, voice, and unapologetic creative expression.

A cantorial soloist, Jewish educator, and international performer, she is co-director of Rappers & Rabbis, where her music and leadership bring new energy, vision, and vitality to the collective. She has represented R&R at major Jewish conferences and contributed original work to the evolving landscape of Jewish liturgical music.

Rachel is also a MUNY musician—part of New York City’s Music Under New York program, which brings live performance into public transit spaces—and a two-time honoree as one of New York City’s Top 5 Street Performers (2023 & 2024).

---

What Rachel brings to Shir Chadash

Rachel’s work lives at the intersection of tradition and bold creative expression. Through voice, rhythm, and text, she invites participants to step into their own authenticity, take creative risks, and explore new ways of connecting to Jewish learning and spiritual practice.

Her work is fearless, joyful, and deeply rooted—where Torah meets rhythm and voice becomes prayer.