Damscus, Dec.02 (SANA) The Syrian Wind Orchestra, conducted by Maestro Ihab Quteish, presented an evening of wind-ensemble music at the Drama Theater of the Damascus Opera House on Monday, offering a performance distinguished by direct interaction between the stage and the hall.
Audience members moved from listening to participating, responding to Quteish’s cues and incorporating their clapping into the live rhythmic structure of the concert. The conductor led with a style built on reading the room and moving across the stage to sustain an engaging, communal atmosphere.
The program combined classical European works with Eastern and Latin influences, shifting in tone and tempo from one piece to another and giving the evening renewed energy. Quteish’s leadership extended beyond directing the musicians to including the audience as part of the musical fabric.
In a statement to SANA’s correspondent, Quteish said the concert formed “a musical journey that brings together different styles and forms,” noting that the orchestra continues its work to revive the artistic scene.
He added that music carries special importance under current circumstances, describing stage performance as “a source of passion and a constant message of peace” for artists. He expressed appreciation for the collective effort behind the event, calling the performance a result of long-term collaboration and shared belief in music’s ability to restore the human spirit and reinforce hope.
Founded in 2019 under Quteish’s direction, the Syrian Wind Orchestra includes 36 musicians performing on woodwind, brass, and percussion instruments. Its concerts feature a range of Eastern and Western repertoire.
Maestro Quteish is a trombonist who studied at the Higher Institute of Music and completed postgraduate studies at the Faculty of Musical Education. He previously performed as principal trombonist with the Syrian National Symphony Orchestra and gained international experience in Germany, Algeria, and China, in addition to teaching at music institutes in Damascus.
