A harmony of languages, sung.

Byline: STEVE HEISLER Correspondent

Their abilities may seem even more impressive when listeners hear the repertoire presented in Aramaic, Hebrew and Yiddish and other languages, which most of the singers do not speak. Some of the vocalists do not read music.

"Through perseverance and devotion, this group of elderly retirees has managed to sing together at a very good level," said conductor David Berman, who founded the group 11 years ago. "The singers themselves are amazed and surprised at what they can accomplish and are genuinely moved by the expressiveness of the music."

Berman's musical pedigree includes teaching flute, music theory and history at New York's Ithaca College, where he is still professor emeritus of its music school. He has performed solo and chamber recitals with the Civic Orchestra of Chicago, the Haifa Israel Symphony and conducted the Ithaca Opera and Jewish Peoples Choral Society of Chicago.

Now, he is content passing along …