Harrow synagogues form ‘Shul of Rock’

Four Harrow synagogues will form a ‘Shul of Rock’ at the end of June, fusing traditional Shabbat songs with some very untraditional tunes inspired by The Beatles, Status Quo and Led Zeppelin, writes Stephen Oryszczuk.

The ‘Friday Night Rock Service,’ which will be performed by a ten-piece rock band at Middlesex New Synagogue. marks the beginning of a nationwide tour that aims to attract young people and families back to shul.

The unusual initiative is the brainchild of musician Simon Cooper and will involve Harrow and Wembley Progressive Synagogue, Middlesex New Synagogue, Hatch End Masorti Synagogue and Kol Chai Synagogue.

Rabbi Kathleen Middleton of Middlesex New Synagogue said: “Whether you come to shul once a week or once in a blue moon, this will be a Friday Night like no other.”

The initiative on 28 June is a response to the wider religious challenge of steadily declining numbers and follows the introduction of short Tot Shabbat services (for pre-schoolers) and the combining of religion school classes.