This chamber work by composer and pianist Malek Jandali (MalekJandali.com) is inspired by several forgotten Syrian folk themes into the Western classical form of a piano quintet. The final result was a unique harmony and dialouge for unity and humanity in attempt to preserve the beauty of the rich culture of Syria. This is a live recording of the World Premiere by Apollo Chamber Players on October 15, 2016 at the Midtown Arts and Theater in Houston.

Since its inception, music has become a cultural phenomenon. It is something people relate to on emotional, instinctive, intellectual, and many other levels. It has a ected me greatly as well and instilled in me a desire to unite the primal with the contemporary and to create music that tugs at the heart and mind. Thus the birth of this piano quintet, which is based on ancient Syrian themes from the city of Aleppo.

I have always felt that music eloquently expresses the inherent connection between the past, present and future. Today, I feel that music has become solely a means of entertainment rather than a vessel for sharing art and championing human values and rights. As the oldest city in the world, Aleppo is in ruins and ancient cities of Damascus, Hama and my hometown Homs are being destroyed, music is the only tool I have to rescue what is left of our heritage and bring a glimmer of hope to the eyes of the children and the survivors of our present-day holocaust.

As a musician with a mission, it is my duty to preserve and present the rich heritage of my beloved homeland, at the moment that humanity is witnessing the eradication of the cradle of civilization. It is my hope that integrating ancient melodies from beautiful Syria and the Silk Road into my symphonic works will create music that serves as a humanizing force, one which is common to all. My music is dedicated to you, the listener. May you find harmony and peace!