ORONTES
GUITARISTS
A remarkable story about hope, determination and the power of music.
The Orontes Guitarists are a group of Syrian musicians who defied all odds and made their way to Canada through a fellowship from the Artist Protection Fund that supports threatened artists in war zones: not only to escape the war in Syria, but also to build their careers as musicians.
THE STORY OF ORONTES
The Orontes began in Beirut as a group of Syrian guitarists united by a passion for classical and contemporary music. Guided by internationally acclaimed U.S. classical guitarist and composer Susan McDonald, known for teaching in conflict zones, the ensemble developed their unique voice despite the challenges of war.
After the Syrian conflict began in 2011, the musicians and their families faced significant danger in Damascus. They continued to perform, sometimes arranging concerts at the last minute, even under the threat of violence. In October 2016, while performing with the Syrian National Symphony Orchestra, a mortar shell exploded at the opera house entry. Many fled, but some stayed, and the conductor famously carried on with the concert—a testament to resilience and the power of music.
Later, the Orontes were invited to apply to the Artist Protection Fund, which supports artists at risk. Following a rigorous selection process, they were accepted and hosted by the University of Victoria in Canada. Since arriving, the Orontes have shared their message of peace and cultural connection through music across Canada, bringing audiences together through the universal language of the guitar.
Today, Canada is home, and the Orontes continue to inspire through their performances and collaborations.
They have the real potential to put a new face on the Syrian crisis!