In brief
With the rise of Islamist leadership in Syria, artists are eager to preserve their hard-earned creative spaces and engage in dialogue about the future of music in the country.
In Syria, the music scene is at a crossroads. Musicians, having thrived during 14 years of civil war, are now eyeing the newly established Islamist leadership, particularly Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), hoping to secure a path forward for their creative expressions. The electronic and heavy metal music genres saw a boom amid conflict, creating a lively nightlife culture that artists now wish to protect.DJ Maher Green emphasizes the need for organized dialogue with HTS to propose the future of music. While the previous regime was intolerant, especially towards heavy metal, wartime distractions allowed for the emergence of various music scenes. However, many musicians have left Syria in search of stability, sparking a talent drain.Wajd Khair, a dedicated musician, insists on the importance of boldness in artistic expression, stating, “We have to be heard. We exist.” He recalls moments of creative paralysis earlier in the war, but has since rekindled his passion for music, despite the uncertain future under HTS. While HTS claims to support cultural rights, immediate actions such as the temporary closure of the Opera House have raised concerns. Outside the venue, young artists celebrate and sing about hope for a brighter future. With the determination to avoid falling under authoritarian rule once again, musicians like Green are innovating by blending traditional Arabic music with modern styles.As the artistic community unites to advocate for their place in a new Syria, they remain hopeful despite the challenges ahead. The resilience and creativity of Syria’s musicians will be crucial in navigating this new chapter.
