The new Central Synagogue Choir (London) was formed in 2004 and contains a mixture of amature and professional singers including singers who perform with the ENO.
The choir was formed by Chazzan Steven Leas, along with the choir manager Dan Jacobs, with the objective of augmenting rather than hijaking the service. This is achived by introducing new congregational melodies, enhancing the spiritual experience for the congregation and by encoraging congregational participation.
In December 2004 maestro Michael Etherton became conductor. A music scholar at Oxford University, Michael trained as a conductor at the prestigious Rubin Academy of Music in Jerusalem.
The choir sings once a month at the Central Synagogue, here are the dates for 2005:
The choir also sings over the high holydays (Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur) as well as at concerts and other events which will be posted here in the future.
The Central Synagogue choir sings at weddings all over the UK, contact us for more details.