
Friday, January 31, 2025, 7:30pm
Darke Hall
“NIMBLE FRETWORK …. BLENDED BEAUTIFULLY AS THEY PLAYED THROUGH AN ECLECTIC SET FOR CLASSICAL GUITAR.”
Eagle Valley News
More than most, the Orontes Guitarists understand the power that music holds to build bridges and to heal. Like the river from which they draw their name, the trio crosses boundaries and borders, influencing and being influenced in return.
The group had a promising start in Beirut, appearing at venues including the Syrian National Symphony Orchestra and the French Embassy before civil war intruded. Thanks to the Artist Protection Fund (APF) which helps musicians in areas of conflict, the group has found refuge in Canada.
Hailing from different cultural and religious traditions themselves, the trio is keenly aware of how music transcends the barriers between us. They bring audiences an uplifting blend of baroque, flamenco and blues-inspired classical guitar, as they explore their new land and community in this Prairie Debut tour.
PROGRAM
Longa Hicaz – Göksel Baktagir
Masum Aşk (Innocent Love) (Kürdi Saz Semaisi) – Göksel Baktagir
Mouj Al Baher (Waves of the Sea) – Traditional Syrian Song
Ya Habibi – Oh, My Love – Cuarteto Machin
Autumn leaves – Joseph Kosma
Aatini Al Nay – Give Me the Flute – Najeeb Hankash
Sunbati Longa – Ryad Sunbati
Bektob Esmak Ya Habibi – I Write Your Name, My Love – Ziad Rahbani
Intermission
Long Hijaz Kar Kurd – Sapuj Efendi
Utangaç – Shy – Ceyhun Celikten
Ya Mayla – Oh, Swaying One – Traditional Syrian Song
Manhã de Carnaval – Luiz Bonfál
Al Bint El Shalabiya – Shalabiya Girl – Folk Song
Nakili Ahla Zahra – Pick for Me the Most Beautiful Flower – Zaki Nassif
Mais Alreem – Graceful Gazelle – Ziad Rahbani
The Orontes Guitarists is a group of Syrian guitarists formed in Damascus in 2015 under the guidance of guitarist Susan McDonald. They performed extensively in Syria and Lebanon, including a collaboration with the Syrian Symphony Orchestra to play Concierto Andaluz. In 2016, they released their debut album, The Clock.In 2018, the group received the Artist Protection Fund grant and were hosted by the University of Victoria in Canada, where they worked with Dr. Alexander Dunn. Since then, Orontes has performed across Canada, including Vancouver, Toronto, Montreal, Calgary, and more. Highlights include performing at the Canadian Winter Games closing ceremony in Red Deer and sharing the stage with musicians like Brazilian guitarist Celso Machado, Canadian guitarist Simon Farintosh, and Iraqi oud master Naseer Shamma.Orontes Guitarists perform a diverse repertoire, from classical and South American music to their true passion: arranging Middle Eastern and Arabic music for classical guitar. By introducing these rich traditions to new audiences, they bring a fresh and vibrant sound to the classical guitar world.
Gaby Al Botros is a guitarist, conductor, music composer & educator. He is the cofounder of the Orontes Guitar Quartet, a world-renowned guitar ensemble that has escaped war and found refuge in Canada. Combining energetic performance with raw talent, Gaby is an influential musician. For some, music is just a way to let out a little bit of energy, but for Gaby it’s so much more than that– it’s a way of life.
Mohammed Mir Mahmoud (Meer) is a Toronto-based classical guitarist whose unique style bridges classical guitar techniques with the vibrant textures of Middle Eastern music. Drawing inspiration from traditional instruments like the Buzuk and Baghlama, his arrangements infuse a distinct regional flavor into both solo and ensemble performances. As a co-founder of Orontes Guitarists, Meer’s work reimagines Middle Eastern melodies within classical frameworks, captivating audiences across Syria, Lebanon, and Canada. With a background that spans solo, duo, trio, and quartet performances, as well as collaborations with orchestras, baroque ensembles, jazz bands, and Arabic bands, Meer brings a wealth of experience to his performances and teaching. His artistry continues to introduce new musical dimensions to Canadian audiences.
Orwa Al Sharaa is a passionate musician with a strong foundation in guitar performance and a lifelong dedication to the art of music. Combining technical expertise with artistic flair, Orwa has cultivated a versatile and expressive style that resonates across genres. Having formally studied Guitar Performance, Orwa’s musical journey began with a deep appreciation for the intricacies of classical and contemporary guitar techniques. Over the years, he has honed his craft, blending influences from classical composers, modern virtuosos, and traditional Arabic melodies, reflecting his bilingual and multicultural heritage. Orwa’s performances are characterized by emotional depth and technical precision, captivating audiences with a seamless mix of acoustic and electric guitar mastery. Beyond performance, he has a keen interest in musical theory and composition, often creating pieces that weave storytelling into soundscapes. In addition to his individual work, Orwa has collaborated with other artists and contributed to musical projects, bringing leadership and vision to ensembles. His dynamic stage presence and commitment to musical excellence have earned him a reputation as a thoughtful and inspiring artist.When not performing, Orwa enjoys sharing his knowledge and enthusiasm for music, inspiring others through teaching and mentorship. Balancing a rich professional life in sales leadership with his musical pursuits, Orwa continues to explore and celebrate the transformative power of music.