Ot Azoy 2025 – Learn Yiddish

ALL MATERIALS HAVE BEEN SENT TO YOU – PLEASE CHECK JUNK FOLDERS – REGISTRATION STARTS FROM 11AM FOR BEGINNERS AND 11.30 FOR ALL OTHER LEVELS – SUNDAY SOAS MAIN BUILDING


Join JMI’s renowned week-long immersion course in Yiddish language, song, and culture. Open to all ages, levels, and backgrounds, this unique programme allows even complete beginners to begin speaking, reading, writing—and singing—in Yiddish within just one week.

Language classes are offered at four levels and are led by Dr. Khayele Beer, an internationally recognised Yiddish scholar, supported by a faculty of world-class tutors and cultural experts.

This years faculty include Sonia Pinkusowitz-Dratwa, Simo Muir and Osian Sharma. Alongside dynamic classroom learning, participants will enjoy a vibrant cultural programme featuring music, theatre, poetry, and lectures exploring the Yiddish world—past and present.

Shura Lipovsky, Head of Faculty for The Golden Peacock will lead daily sessions in learning Yiddish through song, adding a musical dimension to your language journey.

This is the only opportunity in the UK to fully immerse yourself in Yiddish language and culture for an entire week—through literature, music, film, and community—with a diverse group of passionate and like-minded individuals.

You’ll have the privilege of working with some of the UK and Europe’s top educators and performers. Whether you’re a complete beginner, a developing linguist, a professional singer, or a curious enthusiast, the depth and breadth of the programme offers something for everyone, day and night.

Running in parallel, the language and song schools feature sessions in reading, writing, and speaking Yiddish, along with song masterclasses, concerts, film screenings, and discussions of the contemporary Yiddish scene in London and beyond.

The course takes place at SOAS, University of London—an internationally respected centre for ethnomusicology and world cultures—located in the vibrant heart of central London, near Russell Square. It’s a perfect opportunity to connect with fellow Yiddish enthusiasts while experiencing one of Europe’s great cities.

For more information about the course, accommodation advice, or financial support options, please contact the JMI team. Students can benefit from discounted housing through the University of London.

Senior rate applies to those aged 65+

Early booking deadline extended to 12th June

Refund policy:

10% deducted if cancelled before 1 June
25% deducted if cancelled after 1 July.
50% deducted  if cancelled after 1 August.

Daily timings:
Sunday 17th August: 11am-6pm
Monday 18th August: 9.30am-7pm
Tuesday 19th August: 9.30am-7pm
Wednesday 20th August: 9.30am-7pm
Thursday 21st August: 9.30am-9pm
Friday 22nd August: 9.30am-5pm