The daughter of renowned artist Israel Zohar and stepdaughter of Shir LaShalom songwriter Yankele Rotblit, Jerusalem-born singer-songwriter Alma Zohar carved her own path from carpenter to acclaimed musician. Now she’s expanded into children’s literature, poetry, and therapeutic workshops while maintaining her commitment to social justice
In the vibrant tapestry of Israeli music, few artists embody the country’s complex soul quite like Alma Zohar. This Jerusalem-born singer-songwriter has carved out a unique space where world music meets folk and rock.
Zohar’s breakthrough came in 2008 with her debut album Dabri (“Talk”), which didn’t just launch her career – it earned her the coveted Singer of the Year title and established her as a fresh voice in Israeli music. Her distinctive blend of genres reflects a deeply personal artistic journey that began in Jerusalem’s bohemian Rehavia neighborhood.
Her creative DNA runs deep. As the daughter of the internationally acclaimed artist Israel Zohar and stepdaughter of famous songwriter, composer, and journalist Yankele Rotblit – the war veteran who penned the iconic Shir LaShalom (“Song for Peace”) – Zohar grew up surrounded by artistic expression and social consciousness.
But Zohar’s path to music wasn’t linear. After studying screenwriting at Jerusalem’s prestigious Sam Spiegel Film School and even working as a carpenter, she eventually found her true calling in song.
Today, as she approaches 50, Zohar has expanded her creative horizons once again. She published a children’s book, illustrated by her father, who lives in London, as well as a collection of her poetry. Trained in bibliotherapy, she now conducts “soul writing” workshops and retreats, helping others find their voice through words. Her spiritual journey – deeply rooted in Jewish tradition yet embracing universal humanistic values – infuses both her music and her activism for refugees and asylum seekers.
As Zohar continues to evolve, she embodies the restless creativity that defines Israeli culture at its best. Her voice carries forward the legacy of her artistic family while forging an entirely new path. In a country where music often serves as both mirror and balm, Alma Zohar offers something rarer: a soundtrack for healing.
Main Photo: Alma Zohar by Eiran Resler\ Wikipedia\ Released under the GNU Free Documentation License.
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