Syrian Encounter

The Victoria Guitar Society is proud to present the first concert of the 2019- 2020 International Artist Series - "Syrian Encounter - an evening with Orontes Quartet".  The Orontes Guitar Quartet, hailing from Syria, will be joined by guest artists BC author Deborah Campbell and guitar and rhythm master Celso Machado for a multimedia stage show featuring Syrian poetry, prose, solo and ensemble guitar, and percussion.

The Orontes Quartet has performed at the Damascus Opera House in partnership with the Syrian Higher Institute of Music as well as with the Syrian State National Orchestra. They have taught and performed at several festivals in Lebanon and Syria and released their first CD "The Clock" in 2016.

Since their dramatic escape from war-torn Syria, the Orontes Quartet has established itself in Canada, playing venues across the country. Their cross-cultural approach blending classical, jazz and contemporary styles has received rave reception.

Orontes arrived in Victoria through a fellowship with Dr. Alexander Dunn at the University of Victoria.  Under the auspices of the Institute for international education - Artist Protection Fund.

Music, art and letters are powerful expressions of the human spirit. In times of prosperity and even in times of great upheaval and violence, music has brought joy and a sense of togetherness. The Victoria Guitar Society celebrates this unique message, carried from a region of intense conflict, and shared in our beautiful city.