Ornina Syrian Orchestra, conducted by composer Shafi Badreddine, will be hosting its second concert at the Berlin Philharmonie Theater, presenting Syrian and Arab musical heritage with a special musical blend.
Shafi Badreddine, a Syrian artist from the countryside of Sweida, graduated from the Higher Institute of Music in 1998 with specialization in Oud and Clarinet. He continued his studies in musical composition in Lyon then studied conducting in Dijon, France. He also worked as a teacher at the Higher Institute of Music in Damascus, as well as composed a number of pieces of oriental instruments with the orchestra.
At the end of 2010, he returned to Luxembourg, where he currently resides. With the war in Syrian, the musician expressed his desire to create an official orchestra. The idea of creating Ornina emerged in 2016 through an NGO in Luxembourg. He stated that he and other artists had to play the role entrusted to them, as culture and the arts embody the spirit of the people.
Ornina Orchestra has presented many folk songs from all Syrian regions, invoking its diverse dialects that reflect the mosaic of Syrian society. Badreddine pointed out that many Syrian musicians and singers, who were forced to leave the country, helped in forming the band, which was not an easy feat as most of the members are spread out all over Europe and outside it. He also said that they has also play worked with Western musicians from whatever country is hosting their performances.
Despite its name, Ornina Orchestra’s works are not based on classical music, but present Arab and Syrian music. Its founder explains that, “The orchestra integrates Western features, albeit minimally, with traditional eastern ensemble. This expands the acoustic coloring of its works, without compromising or distorting the original material.”
The ensemble is mostly composed of distinguished Syrian musicians and singers currently living in Europe. Ornina is scheduled to hold a concert at the Berlin Philharmonie Theater in the coming days, which will include new works that will address Syrian folklore again in a musical sequence, including wedding songs and dances. It will also present the Spring Sequence, a work that travels through Arab music following the Arab Spring movement.
Badreddine alse argued that the arts need supportive institutions that believe in their importance. “Arts in general are a shield against tyranny, whether governmental, ethnic or religious, and they only shine and grow in a free and open atmosphere.” Badreldine revealed that Ornina Orchestra has an important art project that will be announced soon and will be one of the most important and largest works of art in decades.
Zaman Al Wasl
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