Jan 27, 2007 -- On the evening of January 20, more than 2,000 students, friends, and family participated in the 2007 Women's Choir Competition, “Kol Chatan V'kol Kallah,” co-sponsored by Yeshiva University and Kedma, an international student organization funded by United Jewish Appeal’s Partnership 2000 program. Michlelet Mevaseret Yerushalayim came in first, followed by Midreshet Harovah, and Tomer Devorah in third place. Yeshiva University President Richard M. Joel welcomed the students to the event, which was held at the Renaissance Hotel in Jerusalem. The proceeds from ticket sales go to Rabbanit Kapach, an Israel Prize winner recognized for her work for underprivileged women. Since the Women's Choir Competition began, more than $60,000 has been distributed to needy Jerusalem brides, most of whom are orphans. In addition to the choir competition, volunteer students modeled Rabbanit Kapach's ethnic wedding dresses from countries such as Egypt, Turkey and Tunisia. The evening was filled with songs of hope for peace in Israel, as well as prayers for unity. The groups are judged on a variety of criteria including song originality, costumes and performance. The Women’s Choir Competition is a highlight for the young women in the S. Daniel Abraham Israel Program. Students attend to see their friends, cheer on their midrashot, and learn about Yeshiva University, said Nava Hyman, admissions coordinator for women's programs at YU in Israel. “The place was just filled with electricity,” Mrs. Hyman said. “The audience participation was phenomenal.” The Women’s Choir Competition began almost 10 years ago, and has grown exponentially in popularity since then. Sixteen choirs participated this year, representing Midreshet Yeud, Darchei Binah, Midreshet Moriah, Midreshet Lindenbaum, Baer Miriam, Michlalah, Michlelet Mevaseret Yerushalayim, Tomer Devorah, Machon Gold, Michlelet Esther, Orot, Midreshet Harova, Tiferet, Shaalvim for Women, Emunah V’omanut, and Bnot Torah Institute.