Flory Jagoda

Flory Jagoda (b. December 1, 1923) is a Bosnian-American musician and songwriter renowned for her contributions to the genre of Sephardic music, which reflects the cultural heritage of Jews from Spain and Portugal. Born in Sarajevo, she survived World War II and later emigrated to the United States, where she became a prominent figure in preserving and promoting Sephardic traditional music. Jagoda's notable works include her albums "Songs of My People" and "Flory Jagoda: A Life in Music," featuring songs that draw on her family's Sephardic roots and personal experiences. One of her most famous compositions is "Ocho Kandelikas," a song celebrating the Hanukkah tradition, which has become a staple in Jewish music repertoire. Her impact on music extends beyond her recordings; Jagoda has been an educator and advocate for Sephardic culture, teaching and performing at various festivals and universities. She has received numerous accolades, including the National Heritage Fellowship from the National Endowment for the Arts, underscoring her role in preserving and revitalizing this important cultural tradition. Flory Jagoda's work continues to inspire new generations interested in Jewish and world music.