Currents – From Damascus to the Dam

Name: Currents – From Damascus to the Dam
Start: 2025-10-17T21:30:00+00:00
End: 2025-10-17T23:00:00+00:00
Location: The Concertgebouw

Mireille Bittar
Wasim Arslan
Nawras Altaky
ÁMÀL Ensemble

Between the ancient walls of Damascus and the stones of the Dam lies a world of stories—of departure and arrival, of what was left behind and what was found along the way. In the Kleine Zaal (Small Hall), three Syrian vocalists sing in the language of longing, resilience, and connection—about homesickness, hope, and the search for a home.

Dutch and English will be spoken during this concert.

17th of October 2025, at 21:45

Price: €29 – €38

Where It’s At:

Concertgebouwplein 10, 1071 BB Amsterdam, Netherlands

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Wasim Arslan, Nawras Altaky & Mireille Bittar

The Syrian musical tradition has always been incredibly rich—melodic, poetic, and spiritual. Wasim Arslan, Nawras Altaky, and Mireille Bittar present ancient songs and new compositions in a musical landscape where the Arabic repertoire whispers, weeps, and jubilates. Their voices are carried by the ÁMÀL Ensemble, formed by musicians from the internationally composed and versatile Orchestre Partout—a collective of musicians with roots worldwide that fuses traditional instruments with contemporary sounds and influences.

ÁMÀL Ensemble

The ÁMÀL Ensemble comprises an international group of musicians affiliated with Orchestre Partout. Percussionist Háshem Kabreet (Syria) blends Arabic rhythms with the sounds of handpans and hybrid drum kits. Buzuk player Kinan Abuakel (Syria) connects Damascene tradition with education and composition. Qusai Naim (Syria) builds on his classical training as a soloist and ensemble musician. Singer and oud player Nour Wahedi (Syria) performs the Syrian repertoire with warmth and intensity. Anna Zavorina (Russia) combines double bass and voice in expressive improvisations. Pianist Kitano Hernandez Solano (Mexico) and trumpeter Romain Gachot (France) bring fresh energy with jazz, groove, and lyricism.

Syrian tradition

Together they weave a tapestry of sounds: from the delicate maqam to improvisations on handpan, piano, and buzuk: the evening moves between classical Arabic heritage and free, modern expression. Language and melody merge into stories that are tangible, even without words.

Afterwards, we invite you to literally savor this culture—with Syrian specialties reminiscent of the scents and flavors of Aleppo, Homs, and Damascus. An evening for those who seek to be moved—by music that transcends boundaries and seeks connection, from heart to heart. Even far from home.

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