Holding an undergraduate degree in Opera and a Master’s degree in Music with an emphasis on vocal performance, both from Russia’s prestigious Kazan State Conservatory, Alexander Berkovich embarked on a very successful operatic career in Russia and Europe. As an opera soloist (bass-baritone), his repertoire included many leading roles in Italian, French, and Russian operas. Following in the steps of
operatic “greats” Richard Tucker and Jan Peerce, Alexander began singing at the St. Petersburg Choral Synagogue and it was there that he decided that singing Jewish Liturgy is what he wanted to do.

Upon ordination, Chazzan Berkovich will serve as the Cantor at Hollywood Temple Beth El. In addition, he will serve as a cantor/ spiritual leader for Los Angeles’ Russian Jewish community and as the Service Director and member of the Clergy team at Hollywood Forever Mortuary (Beth Diam Cemetery).