Jan 22, 2006 -- On the evening of January 14, more than 2,000 students, friends, and family participated in this year's 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. Thirteen choirs participated this year, representing Midreshet Moriah, Midreshet Lindenbaum, Darchei Bina, Machon Gold, Michlala, Afikei Torah, Baer Miriam, Midreshet Harovah, Midreshet Yeud, Tiferet, Orot Bat Tzion, Michlelet Mevaseret Yerushalayim, and Shalvim for Women. Michlalah came in first, followed by Darchei Binah, and Shaalvim in third place. Photos of the event can be viewed here. 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 girls 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. Stern College for Women Dean Karen Bacon; Geri Mansdorf, associate director of admissions for YU; and Shira Rosenfeld, assistant director for student aid, attended the event. “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. This year’s competition was held at the Renaissance Hotel. “It was a beautiful venue,” Mrs. Mansdorf said. “At this time of year we get many parents visiting their children spending the year on the S. Daniel Abraham Israel Program. Both the parents and the students were impressed with the event.” 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 $50,000 has been distributed to needy Jerusalem brides, most of whom are orphans. Mrs. Hyman stressed that the choir competition is a way for students with different interests to show their talents. “Some students are more academically oriented and some are more artistically inclined. This is a way for the artistic students to showcase their talents.”