✡ Ottawa · Lessons over Zoom · בר · בת מצווה

Preparing for your Bar or Bat Mitzvah should be meaningful — not stressful.

Personalized, one-on-one lessons with David Kogut — experienced chazzan and Jewish educator with nearly 30 years of Bar and Bat Mitzvah teaching experience.

100s
Students Prepared
19+
Years in Jewish Education
3
Communities Served
K8
Grades Taught
Why families choose David

Experience you can trust

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Master's in Jewish Education

Graduate of the Azrieli Graduate School of Jewish Education at Yeshiva University.

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Nearly 30 Years of Experience

Hundreds of students prepared for their Bar and Bat Mitzvahs with confidence and pride.

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Experienced Chazzan & Educator

Decades of service leading prayers and teaching in Jewish communities across Montreal, Seattle, and Ottawa.

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Personalized for Every Learner

Lessons adapted to each student's learning style — including ADHD, dyslexia, anxiety, and neurodivergent learners.

David Kogut playing guitar

Meet David Kogut

With nearly 30 years of Bar and Bat Mitzvah teaching experience and almost two decades as a Jewish educator, David Kogut has helped hundreds of students prepare for one of the most meaningful milestones in Jewish life.

David holds a Master's degree in Jewish Education from Yeshiva University and has served as a teacher, youth director, and chazzan in Jewish communities across Montreal, Seattle, and Ottawa. He has taught students from Kindergarten through Grade 8 and brings that broad educational experience to every Bar and Bat Mitzvah lesson.

David believes that students learn best when they feel comfortable, supported, and genuinely connected to their teacher. His patient, encouraging approach helps build confidence while keeping lessons enjoyable and stress-free.

Read David's full bio →
The program

Every program is personalized, and includes

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Torah & Haftarah Reading

Master the trope and text with meticulous, step-by-step preparation.

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Leading the Prayer Service

Gain the skills and confidence to lead the service on the big day.

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Speech Preparation

Craft and deliver a d'var Torah that is personal and meaningful.

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Meaning & Tradition

Understand the meaning behind the prayers and mitzvot through engaging conversations that connect Jewish tradition to real life.

How lessons work: weekly 30-minute lessons over Zoom, with in-person sessions at the shul in the weeks leading up to the Bar/Bat Mitzvah — so students get real experience with a real Torah, in the room where their event will take place. See fees & policies →

Ready to begin the journey?

Reach out to schedule a first lesson or ask a question — David would love to hear from your family.

Book a Lesson