The Jewish world, and especially the world of chazzanus and Jewish music, mourns the loss of R’ Sri (Yehuda Aharon) Klein z”l, a beloved and gifted chazzan who passed away in the United States at the age of 76. He had been in declining health over the past decade.
A resident of Manhattan, R’ Ari was a son of R’ Yirmiyahu Klein z”l. Over the course of many decades, he earned international renown for his stirring voice and heartfelt service as a baal tefillah in prominent batei knesses around the globe. His cantorial career included distinguished posts in Sydney, Australia; Johannesburg, South Africa; and most recently, at the Park East Synagogue in Manhattan.
Endowed with a soaring tenor voice and deep expertise in the art of chazzanus, R’ Ari inspired countless mispallelim through his passionate and uplifting davening. His love for Hashem and his musical talent came together in a way that left a lasting impression on those privileged to hear him.
Beyond his accomplishments as a chazzan, R’ Aryeh played a pivotal role in shaping the career of his brother-in-law and shadchan, Mordechai Ben David. It was R’ Ari who first encouraged MBD to pursue Jewish music professionally, support and encouragement that ultimately helped launch an iconic career that would uplift generations.
He is also remembered for introducing Mordechai Ben David to the saintly Rebbe of Ribniz zt”l, with whom R’ Ari maintained a strong kesher throughout the years.
The levayah will take place today at 4:00 p.m. at Shomrei Hadas Chapels in Boro Park, Brooklyn. Kevurah will follow at the Har Shalom Bais Hachaim in Monsey.
Yehi zichro boruch.

{Matzav.com}