FOR local fans and creators of any kind of live performance of any kind it will come as no surprise that this growing market town of Otley punches well above its weight in terms of opportunities to know, see, listen to, or maybe become a brilliant and/or famous, musician.

Our friends and family members, neighbours, colleagues in community groups, or regulars in one of our legendary coffee shops and pubs, have provided countless hours of delight for audiences the length and breadth of Wharfedale.

It might be less well known that an Otley devotee, who has led a multi-generational choir here for five years, is experiencing a flurry of career defining events right now as I type this article.

Thanda Gumede, 36, regularly travels to Otley to lead the choir ‘Singing for Pleasure’, originally established by Nik Rutherford for Otley Action for Older People. The lucky members of this choir have seen Thanda and Nik perform in their joyous multi-piece band ‘Ubunye’ at ‘The Wardrobe’ in central Leeds.

Some have seen Thanda as 2020’s ‘promising talent’ at Manchester Jazz Festival online and this year at their live ‘Home’ stages in central Manchester.

Mid-August has added a ‘sold out’ gig at Soho’s ‘Pizza Express’ venue, now considered London and the world’s best jazz venue, to Thanda’s rapidly expanding CV. Plus, on Sunday 15th August, an appearance at The Albert Hall in London, with a famous fellow South African, cellist Abel Selaocoe, at The BBC Proms which was broadcast live on Radio 3 and can be found on catch up into September.

With his self-deprecating and cheeky warmth towards the grand- and great-grandparents of that local Otley choir, to his winning smile and heart–melting voice on all these world famous stages, Thanda should be celebrated by anyone who loves what makes Otley so creative and special.

If you would like a part in this unfolding journey, you can join the Singing for Pleasure choir, which does what it says on the tin – sings for pleasure - so no experience required, by ringing Helen on 01943 463 402 or Sue at Otley Action for Older People on 01943 463965.

by Helen Toft