Yair Klinger is an Israeli musician, composer, arranger, and conductor for over 50 years.

He has composed and written numerous songs for Israeli and international song festivals, pre-Eurovision contests, and his song “Ein Davar” represented Israel in the Eurovision Song Contest 2001.

Among his most well-known songs are “Habaita” (Home) — recently revived as a national anthem for the return of the Israeli hostages (lyrics by Ehud Manor, performed by Yardena Arazi) — and “Nishba” (I Swear), which has become a timeless anthem in IDF oath ceremonies and weddings (lyrics by Shmulik Kluski, performed by Haim Moshe).

Other beloved songs, such as “Adama” (Earth) performed by Ofra Haza, “Kum Ve’hithalech Ba’aretz” (Rise and Walk the Land) performed by the Northern Command Band, and “Chalomot” (Dreams) performed by Ruchama Raz and Eyal Golan, have become enduring cornerstones of Israeli culture — accompanying moments of joy, remembrance, and hope for generations.

Klinger is one of the founders of MILA – The Israeli Center for Choirs and Vocal Ensembles, and he continues to conduct choirs and vocal groups across Israel, alongside composing and creating new works.

Throughout his career, he has been honored with Lifetime Achievement Awards from Ami (the Israeli Musicians’ Union) and ACUM (the Israeli Composers’ Association), as well as a special recognition from Bar-Ilan University for his outstanding contribution to Hebrew song.