Paul Heller will be a well travelled addition to Belsize Square Synagogue when he joins as cantor in June.

The Bogota-born chazan has led the Jewish community in Quito, Ecuador, and Medellin, Colombia, also serving Stockholm’s Great Synagogue for 11 years. Belsize Square’s Rabbi Stuart Altshuler officiated with him at the

Great Synagogue and is “thrilled” at his recruitment. “Our community’s rich musical heritage and Cantor Heller’s incredible voice are sure to inspire everyone who attends our services.”

Mr Heller said that “to become the cantor of a synagogue with the musical tradition of Belsize Square is an honour”.

Founded in 1939 by refugees fleeing Nazi oppression, Belsize Square is a thriving community of 1,100 members, drawn from many different backgrounds and countries. Mr Heller should have no problems communicating, being fluent in English, Hebrew, Spanish, German, Dutch and Swedish. His wife Antge is a museum guide and their two teenage children are looking forward to studying in London.