A national children’s song competition in Kfar Saba marked the start of Harel Skaat’s performance history at the age of six. Since that debut, the Israeli singer and songwriter has moved from local school bands and the Communications Corps Band to a career defined by platinum-certified recordings and multiple appearances on the country's annual televised music festivals.
Early Career and Training
Skaat’s formal artistic development took place at Beit Zvi, a performing arts college. During his time there, he earned both the outstanding achievement scholarship and the Sano Scholarship for his roles in campus musicals. Prior to this, he had already gained public visibility as a child on the program Parpar Nehmad and as a youth lead in local Kfar Saba bands. While a student, he released the single Ein od Si'kui and participated in the talent series Ha'melech Ha'ba, placing sixth.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →Kokhav Nolad and Commercial Success
The singer rose to national prominence as a contestant on the second season of Kokhav Nolad in 2005. His performances, particularly his rendition of Bdidut, drew consistent praise. Despite entering the finals as the popular favorite, he finished in second place behind Harel Moyal, a result that triggered public debate. Following the competition, he secured a contract with Hed Arzi and released his self-titled debut album in 2006. The record reached platinum status in Israel, fueled by the success of the ballad Ve'at, which topped national year-end charts.
Professional Evolution and Eurovision
After settling a year-long legal dispute with his initial label in 2009, Skaat signed with Aroma Music and Partner Communications to release his second album, Dmuyot. This work achieved gold certification. His broader career includes performing at the 2005 Yitzhak Rabin memorial rally and participating in the annual Festigal children's festivals, where he notably portrayed Peter Pan in 2004. In 2010, the Israel Broadcasting Authority selected him to represent the nation at the Eurovision Song Contest in Oslo, where he performed the song Milim, finishing in 14th place.
Fast facts
- Born: 8 August 1981, Kfar Saba
- Education: Beit Zvi
- Eurovision Entry: Milim (2010)
- Debut Album: Harel Skaat (2006)
- Professional debut: 2004
- Record Label: Aroma Music
Questions readers ask
What song did Harel Skaat perform at Eurovision?
He represented Israel in 2010 with the song Milim.
Did Harel Skaat win Kokhav Nolad?
No, he finished in second place during the second season of the competition.
