Enlarge image (© GKNY) Many guests at the German House last night had to speak up a little when having their names checked off the RSVP list or introducing themselves to acquaintances; that is, over the whimsical din of the Klezmer music trio led by Benjy Fox-Rosen. They filled the lobby for the opening of German-Jewish photographer Julian Voloj's photography exhibition, "Only in New York." With this retrospective, Voloj, now based in New York, looks back on 10 years of photographing Jewish life in the city.

Consul General Busso von Alvensleben introduced Fox-Rosen and Voloj, a native of Muenster, who discovered the city mostly by cycling through the city and visiting former and present centers of Jewish life. It was this principle of uncovering Jewish heritage that has led Voloj all over the world, observing and documenting Jewish Diaspora culture in daily life.

The former President of the European Union of Jewish Students in Brussels was inspired to share these discoveries with visitors and New Yorkers alike not only through photography, but also by founding JWalks, a specialized walking tour service that traces these sites throughout the city. It is exactly this uniqueness that is captured in "Only in New York."

"Julian's works speak a strong and lucid language that will be understood and appreciated by those who pass through here," said Consul General von Alvensleben.

Benjy Fox-Rosen added another layer to these images of a vibrant Jewish New York with his Klezmer trio. The singer, bassist and composer is steeped in Jewish musical traditions, and is acclaimed for his interpretation and contribution to Jewish music in his recordings.
Enlarge image Benjy Fox-Rosen and Busso v. Alvensleben (from left to right) (© GKNY)
Nearly 200 representatives of numerous Jewish organizations and community leaders came to the German House to celebrate the vernissage and to congratulate Elmar. Jakobs on the completion of a successful tenure, including Rabbi Arthur Schneier; AJC Executive Director David Harris, Rabbi Michael Miller of JCRC; Betty Ehrenberg of WJC; Andrew Srulevitch of ADL; and representatives of B'nai B'rith, Conference of Presidents, the Chabad Community and the Israeli Missions in New York.

Mr. Jakobs received the proper send-off with an address by AJC Executive Director David Harris.

In keeping with evening's celebration of Jewish life in New York, there was one more event to add to the mix- Benjy Fox-Rosen had, just an hour before playing the first note on his upright bass, officially become a German citizen.