THE TEMPLE BETH ISRAEL CHOIR
Dr. Ann Stephenson-Moe, Music Director and Organist
Dr. Ann Stephenson-Moe is a major musical force throughout the region as an organist, harpsichordist, conductor, and accompanist. Stephenson-Moe served as the organist-choirmaster at Church of the Redeemer in Sarasota from 1974 to 2020 and currently services as organist and choirmaster at Temple Beth Israel. She has performed recitals at St. Thomas Church in New York City, Trinity Church in Boston, and the American Cathedral in Paris. A graduate of Florida State University, she holds a Bachelor of Arts in History and Political Science followed by a Master of History from Rollins College. Stephenson-Moe also has a Master of Sacred Music, summa cum laude, from Union Theological Seminary in New York City.
Florence Katz (z’l) Music Director Emerita, Jul. 9, 1915 – Dec. 26, 2015
Florence Katz (z”l) had musical talent and a deep love and appreciation for art and music. She graduated with a Bachelors degree in music from Oberlin College in 1937 and a Masters degree in music from Ohio State University in 1939. She played the violin and later the viola in the Sarasota Pops Orchestra. Florence was an active member of Temple Beth Israel on Longboat Key and was an Honorary Lifetime member of the Board of Trustees. Florence was also committed to the mission and vision of Jewish Family and Children’s Service, Sarasota-Manatee.
Her love of music, combined with her determination and boundless energy, gave birth to the Temple Israel choir which has and continues to bring joy to so many. She served as the original choir and music director at Temple Beth Israel for 22 years. She passed away at the age of 100 in 2015. The Florence Katz Memorial Concert is held annual in her name at TBI, which benefits the choir.