High-profile creative leaders Paulette Morris and Christella Litras bring emerging artists together with professional musicians and producers for a five-day creative project featuring a two-day masterclass from award-winning reggae artist and actress Sutara Gayle
This August, established creative leaders Christella Litras and Paulette Morris will connect emerging artists at Music House for five days of music creation, recording and professional development.
Taking place on 5–7 and 10–11 August 2026, Lead the Change is a collaboration between Music House and the David Oluwale Memorial Association (DOMA). The project will give artists the chance to write and record their own music alongside high-profile musicians and producers while developing their creative practice and making valuable industry connections.
A key highlight will be a two-day masterclass with award-winning reggae artist and actress Sutara Gayle, also known as Lorna Gee. Drawing on her experience across music, theatre and screen she will share insight into what it takes to build and sustain a career in the music industry.
The masterclass will give participants a rare chance to learn directly from a multi-faceted, award-winning artist and gain an insight into the experiences, challenges and determination behind her career across music and theatre.
Alongside the masterclass, artists will create new music in Music House’s basement recording studio, gaining first-hand experience of the recording process and making connections that could support their future careers. The project will also provide a space for emerging artists to meet like-minded creatives and build relationships that can continue beyond the five-day programme.
Christella Litras, Creative Director at Music House, said:
“There is so much talent in Leeds and we want to create opportunities for artists to develop, connect and see what is possible for them. This project is about bringing people together, creating new music and giving artists the chance to learn from experienced professionals Creative Trailblazers join forces to ‘Lead the Change’ for Leeds artists as they take their next steps.”
Sutara Gayle, award-winning reggae artist and actress, said:
“I’m delighted to be involved with Lead the Change and to share some of my experience with the next generation of artists. Building a career in music takes talent determination and resilience. I hope the masterclass will give artists practical insight and encouragement as they develop their own journeys.”
The collaboration between Music House and DOMA reflects a shared commitment to creating meaningful opportunities through creativity and supporting artists to develop their talents and reach their potential.
Lead the Change will culminate on 20 September 2026 when the work created during the project will be shared as part of a live festival near the David Oluwale Sculpture in Leeds.