In a bid to attract younger people to synagogue services, four Harrow congregations have joined forces to present “Shul of Rock” tonight at the Middlesex New Synagogue’s Bessborough Road premises.

The brainchild of musician and session drummer Simon Cooper, the service will feature traditional Shabbat songs set to tunes inspired by the Beatles, Status Quo and Led Zeppelin.

Mr Cooper was inspired by a charity gig he played at his own Southgate
Progressive Synagogue. Tonight’s service marks the beginning of a nationwide tour.

As well as the Middlesex New, the initiative involves the Harrow and Wembley Progressive, Hatch End Masorti and Kol Chai synagogues.

Middlesex New’s Rabbi Kathleen Middleton promised “a Friday night like no other. Whether you come to shul once a week or once in a blue moon, this is not to be missed. Simon Cooper’s band are true professionals and they are offering a take on a Shabbat service which is seriously fun and provoking.”